Testing Mechanisms of Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy for Social Anxiety

Testing Mechanisms of Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy for Social Anxiety

The purpose of this study is to test mechanisms and processes of virtual reality and augmented reality exposure therapy for social anxiety. There is substantial evidence that virtual reality exposure therapy is an effective treatment for social anxiety. However, it can be difficult to access treatment that needs to be conducted in person. Tests of self-guided (without therapist assistance) virtual reality exposure therapy have had mixed efficacy and tests of augmentation offer an important method to optimize brief interventions. The study objectives are to test a wide range of possible mechanisms and approaches (ranging from single sessions in person to remotely conducted virtual reality exposure therapy) in order to advance the field. The broadness of the proposed research is to provide multiple avenues for inquiry per discussion with IRB chair Dr. Kuo. Depending on the specific line of inquiry some variations will be documented (e.g., multiple consent forms for answering different sub questions of the primary questions listed below).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Individuals at least 18 years of age
• Located in the U.S. with sufficient proximity to Mountain View Campus to attend in person visit(s).
• Able to give consent
• Social Anxiety Disorder based on Structured Clinical Interview AND/OR self-report score cutoff (LSAS > 47).

Exclusion Criteria:

• Current Alcohol or Substance Use Disorder (based on self-report)
• Current or prior psychotic related or bipolar disorder (based on self-report)
• Unstable psychotropic medication (starting/stopping medication in past 6 weeks based on selfreport)
• Current cognitive behavioral therapy for social anxiety
• Impaired vision such that cannot see in VR headset without glasses (contacts okay)