oVRcome Self-guided Virtual Reality for Specific Phobias

oVRcome Self-guided Virtual Reality for Specific Phobias: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Specific phobias: fear of flying, heights, spiders, dogs and needles are the extremely common and exposure therapy (ET) is the first line of treatment. Using Virtual Reality (VR), participants will have control in gradual exposure to their fears. oVRcome (https://www.ovrcome.io/ Virtual reality app), is a self-help VRET for specific phobias, that is delivered through a smartphone application (app) in combination with a low cost headset that holds the smartphone and uses 360º video. The investigators hypothesize that oVRcome is effective in reducing specific phobia symptoms.

Inclusion Criteria:

In order to be eligible to participate in this study, a subject must meet all of the following criteria:

• are between 18-64 years old
• Have a fear of flying, heights, spiders, dogs, needles and score above 4 on the Brief Standard Self rating scale for phobic patients (Marks, I. Matthews ,A (1979) Behaviour Research and Therapy)
• have access to a smart phone and internet
• willing to participate in the research study and providing informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

A potential subject who meets any of the following criteria will be excluded from participation in this study:

• present with symptoms of severe depression or suicidality respectively as measured with the PHQ-9; total score > 19
• have insufficient knowledge of the English language
• are under current treatment for specific phobia or psychotropic medication (unless on stable dosage for the previous 3 months and no changes planned during the study period).