New Zealand-based virtual reality and cognitive behavioral therapy company oVRcome signed a contract with the U.K.’s National Health Service (NHS) to help autistic individuals navigate hospital environments and social interactions. The company utilizes exposure therapy to help patients with phobias, social anxiety, and panic disorder. The pilot program aims to reduce appointment cancellations by immersing autistic individuals in virtual environments and showing them how to navigate social settings through scripted videos. oVRcome’s technology has been shown to reduce phobia symptoms by 75% in participants. This innovative approach is part of a larger trend of using virtual reality to help individuals with neurodiverse conditions develop skills and reduce anxiety.
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