Initial development and dissemination of virtual reality exposure therapy for combat-related PTSD

Abstract

Military personnel are at risk for the development of posttraumatic stress disorder. Although effective treatments are available, the need for improved treatment efficacy and less stigmatizing approaches to treatment have resulted in the evolution of virtual reality exposure therapy. This chapter reviews the development and dissemination efforts of a virtual reality system supporting exposure therapy for deployment-related posttraumatic stress disorder. Specifically, the chapter will review the work done to incorporate the feedback of military personnel into the early development of a Virtual Iraq/Afghanistan system and also reviews efforts to disseminate this treatment to military and Veteran behavioral health researchers and providers.