Virtual Reality Interventions for Body Dissatisfaction (1 CE)

Number of credits: 1

This course is for: Clinical Psychologists, Counselors, and LMFTs

Course By: Rachel Schoor, Ph.D 

Content By: Matsangidou, M., Otkhmezuri, B., Ang, C. S., Avraamides, M., Riva, G., Gaggioli, A., Iosif, D., & Karekla, M. (2020). “Now i can see me” designing a multi-user virtual reality remote psychotherapy for body weight and shape concerns. Human–Computer Interaction. https://doi.org/10.1080/07370024.2020.1788945

Course Description: Immersive virtual reality (VR) tools are being used more frequently in psychotherapy, owing in part to the rise of lower-cost VR head-mounted displays and higher internet data transfer capacity. This qualitative study explored the benefits of using Multi-User VR (MUVR) therapy with undergraduates who were experiencing body shape and weight concerns. Each student participated in a one-hour therapy session grounded in acceptance and commitment therapy or play therapy, and which included techniques from exposure therapy. The authors found that therapists and participants viewed MUVR therapy positively but also experienced some extent of anxiety about its use. The results have implications for the use of VR technologies in psychotherapy that addresses body dissatisfaction.

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify the main purpose of the study as well the methods used to deliver MUVR therapy
2. Identify the main findings of the study concerning both therapists' and participants' experiences with MUVR
3. Integrate the strengths and limitations of the study, and summarize the clinical implications for the use of MUVR in psychotherapy 

Course Outline:

• Review and understand “Now I can see me” designing a multi-user virtual reality remote psychotherapy for body weight and shape concerns
• Review the Course Description and Learning Objectives
• Understand the study's purpose, methodology for delivering MUVR therapy, and qualitative approach to gathering data
• Integrate the study's key findings, strengths, limitations, and clinical implications
• Work through the post-test questions, using the article as the sole basis for your answers
• Return to the article for any missed questions and/or to better understand the experiences of therapists and participants in MUVR therapy for body dissatisfaction

Approvals: