Virtual environments in clinical psychology

Virtual reality is a technology, a communication interface, and an artificial experience. These facets are the foundations of a new clinical environment that can be used for integrating and enhancing actual therapeutic approaches. For this reason, virtual reality is starting to play an important role in clinical psychology-as shown by its use in the treatment of phobias, eating disorders and obesity, male erectile dysfunctions, and posttraumatic stress disorders-that is expected to increase in the next years. This article presents the possible role of virtual environments in clinical psychology, discussing their clinical rationale. Finally, it describes the technological tools and safety requirements associated with the use of this approach.