Canterbury Uses VR to Tackle Patient Phobias
Contact Our Team
For more information about how Halldale can add value to your marketing and promotional campaigns or to discuss event exhibitor and sponsorship opportunities, contact our team to find out more
The Americas -
holly.foster@halldale.com
Rest of World -
jeremy@halldale.com
The University of Canterbury Psychology Centre in Christchurch has partnered with local tech firm oVRcome to offer virtual reality (VR) exposure therapy for patients facing anxieties and phobias. The program uses immersive VR headsets and a video library simulating 18 common fears—such as spiders, flying, and public speaking—to help clinical psychology trainees provide targeted, realistic treatment.
The therapy, tested in a UC research project, also tracks heart rate responses to tailor sessions for each individual. Educators say the technology enhances clinical training and improves accessibility to care, especially for patients unable to confront triggers in real life.
.jpg/r%5Bwidth%5D=1280/f9986a90-29cf-11f0-803b-edaf15a16c66-Halldale_1600_900_ALLTEXT_3%20(1).webp)
.jpg/r%5Bwidth%5D=1280/7aa7e740-15ea-11f0-8f6f-9537d61bff6b-CAT%20WATS%202025%20MPK%20LATAM%20coopesa%20(1).webp)