Hoarding Disorder Treatment With Virtual Reality

Enhancing Evidence-Based Treatment of Hoarding Disorder With Virtual Reality

This study explores whether a facilitated peer support group called Buried in Treasures (BIT) and a virtual reality decluttering practice can help individuals with clutter challenges.

Individuals with clutter challenges participate in Buried in Treasures Workshop (BIT) that has been shown to improve symptoms of hoarding disorder. The investigators hypothesize that adding virtual reality decluttering practice to the BIT workshop will decrease hoarding symptoms and level of clutter over time.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age greater than 55
2. Either gender and all ethno-racial groups
3. Physically healthy male or non-pregnant female.
4. Hoarding Disorder primary condition
5. Willing and able to understand and complete consent and study procedures
6. English speaking
7. Participant should have the technology to host Zoom calls

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Current or past history of bipolar, psychotic or eating disorders, substance dependence, or substance abuse in the last year.
2. Clinically at risk of suicide with Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) Suicidal Ideation Subscale of 4 or higher (i.e. suicidal intent without specific plan)
3. Major medical or neurological conditions that increase the risk of participation or that would prevent completing assigned behavioral practice tasks.
4. Unable or unwilling to allow study staff into home for home assessment
5. Currently at high risk for eviction
6. Animal hoarding or squalor