Virtual Reality Assisted Exposure Therapy in the Prevention and Treatment of PTSD and Related Conditions

Sponsored by the Interactive Media Institute and the International Association of CyberPsychology, Training, & Rehabilitation’s Military Special Interest Group (iACToR), the aim of this APA CE-accredited intermediate/advanced workshop trains clinicians to use VR systems and physiological monitoring in order to facilitate exposure based treatment of PTSD, including combat and civilian in origin. Three major approaches to exposure will be discussed, and strengths and weaknesses of each being discussed and demonstrated. These include flooding type approaches (maintaining maximum arousal), gradual exposure with minimal arousal , and graded exposure eliciting high arousal and training in arousal control. Cognitive (attentional) and autonomic control techniques will be taught. Imagery and self-hypnosis techniques will be taught for inter-session practice by patients, and for clinicians without access to VR equipment.

8-hours of APA Continuing Education credits will be provided to all in attendance at the end of the meeting.

Speakers:
Jim Spira, PhD, MPH, ABPP
Dennis Wood, PhD, ABPP