CBTvr

Functionality & Mechanism

This virtual therapy platform, developed by the University of Rochester's Health Lab, guides users through cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) modules led by a virtual therapist. The app integrates video of a clinician into an immersive, 360-degree office setting. It utilizes interactive questionnaires to personalize the session pathway, serving different video segments based on user responses. The system also leverages user preferences for music and imagery to tailor guided mindfulness exercises, creating a responsive and engaging experience.

Development & Context

• The app was created to increase access to mental health services and address low user engagement common in other computerized CBT platforms.
• It is the result of a multidisciplinary collaboration between the university's psychiatry, computer science, and music departments.
• The news coverage notes the project was designed for standard smartphones without requiring special VR headsets to maximize patient accessibility.
• Development was supported by funding from Arts, Sciences & Engineering and the Medical Center at the University of Rochester.

Intended Use & Scope

CBTvr is designed for patients within the University of Rochester Medical Center system to augment existing behavioral health interventions. It provides psychoeducational modules and skill-building exercises for managing thoughts and behaviors. As described in news coverage, this tool is intended as a supplementary resource, not as a standalone treatment or replacement for formal psychotherapy.