A Clinician's Introduction to 360° Video for Exposure Therapy

• Published in: Translational issues in psychological science 2021-09, Vol.7 (3), p.261-270
• Main Authors: Stevens, Trevor M., Sherrill, Andrew M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Anxiety Disorders; Clinicians; Concepts; Exposure Therapy; Human; Intervention; Professional Competence; Virtual Environment; Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy
• ISSN: 2332-2136; 2332-2179
• DOI: 10.1037/tps0000302

Exposure therapy using 360° videos is a promising new intervention modality theoretically based in existing empirically supported interventions. Virtual reality exposure therapy (VRET) has been developed over two decades and has broad empirical support. However, systems and software for VRET can be quite expensive. A related and more affordable medium, 360° video, has received interest as an alternative to traditional VR. These videos are captured using a specialized camera and can serve as immersive photorealistic virtual environments for use in exposure therapy. The inexpensive and do-it-yourself nature of 360° videos can be leveraged to increase accessibility to exposure therapy for patients and as a steppingstone to VRET competencies for clinicians. The current article provides a basic foundation to begin creating and using 360° videos as exposure stimuli. This foundation consists of important concepts and relevant research, introduction to equipment, steps for creating and sharing original 360° videos, recommendations for using existing 360° videos, and guidance for implementation. Future research and clinical opportunities for 360° video exposure therapy are also explored. What is the significance of this article for the general public?This article serves to introduce clinicians to the use of 360° videos as an alternative and complementary means for delivering exposure therapy. Exposure therapy using 360° video has a growing evidence base in treating anxiety-related disorders. Recently, 360° video equipment and software have become more affordable and accessible for clinicians and their patients. Current research is reviewed and supporting materials are provided to clinicians as a starting point for engaging with 360° video technology.