F.A.Q.

Online psychotherapy
Psychotherapy in virtual reality and the metaverse

What is online psychological support?

Online psychological support is a form of therapy that offers psychological counselling and therapy via the Internet, allowing patients to access mental health professionals remotely via video calls.

What are the advantages of online psychological support over traditional therapy?

Online psychological support offers greater flexibility and accessibility, allowing patients to receive support without having to travel or book appointments in advance. 
It is particularly useful for those who live in remote areas or have work or family commitments that make it difficult to participate in in-person therapy.

Who can benefit from online psychological support?

Online psychological support can benefit anyone in need of emotional support, counselling or psychological therapy. It is suitable for a wide range of people, including those suffering from anxiety, depression, stress, relationship problems and more.

What types of therapies are available through online psychological support?

A wide range of therapeutic approaches can be offered through online psychological support, including cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, mindfulness-based therapy and more.

How long does an online psychological support session last and how often does it take place?

The duration and frequency of online psychological support sessions depend on the patient's needs and the therapist's practices. 
Sessions can vary from 30 to 60 minutes and can take place weekly, fortnightly or according to another agreed schedule

What are the technical requirements to participate in an online psychological support session?

To participate in an online psychological support session, you need a good Internet connection, a compatible device (such as a computer, smartphone or tablet) and a private, quiet place where you can talk without interruptions.

How can I book a psychological support session online?

You can book a psychological support session online through our platform by filling out our questionnaire. Our team will be happy to assist you in making an appointment with one of our qualified therapists.

Is my privacy protected?

All data we acquire is protected by professional secrecy and treated as confidential data: our platforms comply with international standards of encryption and computer security.

Who are the Metacare professionals?

They are accredited professionals in the field of psychotherapy and follow the ethical guidelines of their profession. They are selected and constantly monitored by our experts.

What is psychological therapy in the metaverse?

Psychological therapy through immersive virtual reality in the metaverse is an innovative approach that uses advanced virtual reality and metaverse technologies to treat a wide range of psychological disorders, including phobias, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and more.

How does immersive virtual reality therapy work?

During an immersive virtual reality therapy session, patients wear a VR visor and are exposed in a controlled manner to situations or stimuli that trigger their anxiety or fear. This allows them to face their fears in a safe and controlled environment, while the therapist provides support and guidance.

What technical tools are required?

An internet connection is required (you can use any internet browser) and a working microphone. 
You can access from a computer, tablet or smartphone. You do not have to install specific apps or programmes to use the service but access a platform through a link that we will provide you with instructions on how to use it. The use of VR visors is recommended for a fully immersive experience and to maximise the effectiveness of the therapy.

Do I have to have the visor?

It is also possible to conduct psychotherapy sessions in the metaverse without a visualiser. The use of the visor is recommended as it guarantees a high degree of immersiveness and interaction and maximises the effectiveness of the session. If you do not have the visor, we provide it.

What are the advantages of virtual reality therapy over traditional therapy?

Virtual reality therapy offers numerous advantages, including the possibility of creating customised exposure environments, the accessibility and convenience of remote sessions, and the ability to simulate situations that are difficult to replicate in real life. 
One can log in with one's avatar without showing one's identity, in total anonymity. This reduces the sense of judgement and embarrassment, allowing one to freely share one's experiences and innermost thoughts while guaranteeing the co-presence of patient and therapist, just as in traditional sessions. 
In the Metaverse, social interaction is at the core of the experience as it is a shared and persistent three-dimensional digital world in which people can immerse themselves and interact with each other. Users can create avatars, explore virtual places and share the same virtual space and interact in real time with other people. 
In the metaverse, GPS neurons enable the creation of memories with a clear spatio-temporal location, playing a crucial role in autobiographical memory and the effectiveness of therapy.

For which psychological disorders is virtual reality therapy indicated?

Virtual reality therapy is indicated for a wide range of psychological disorders, including anxiety disorders, depressive disorder, specific phobias, social anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, sexual disorders, chronic pain treatment, and more. 
Each virtual environment is specific to a certain pathology and has a number of features that facilitate the treatment of that specific psychological condition. Virtual reality therapy represents a versatile and adaptable approach that creates safe and controlled environments in which patients can address and overcome their psychological difficulties.

What are the risks or limitations of virtual reality therapy?

Although virtual reality therapy is generally safe and effective, it may not be suitable for all patients. Some may experience nausea or dizziness while using the VR visor, and some psychological disorders may require a different treatment approach.

How can I start virtual reality therapy?

To start therapy with virtual reality, fill in our online questionnaire: the platform will propose the psychologist most suited to your needs from among the Metacare psychologists; alternatively, you can choose your psychologist directly here by filling in and requesting a meeting.

What is the cost of virtual reality therapy?

The cost of virtual reality therapy may vary depending on the therapist and the duration of the sessions.

Is my privacy protected?

All data we acquire is protected by professional secrecy and treated as confidential data: our platforms comply with international standards of encryption and computer security.

Who are the Metacare professionals?

The therapists offering psychotherapy in the metaverse are experienced professionals in the field of psychology and psychotherapy. They have undergone our training in the use of virtual reality technology to provide therapeutic support.