Frequently Asked Questions

What is VRT?
VRT stands for Virtual Reality Therapy. The technology comprises of a head mounted display which provides audio and visual stimuli. The patient is removed from all external distractions in this environment. They are then taken on a journey through many different environments, during which time they reach a deeply relaxed state, where an alignment of the conscious and subconscious mind can take place.

How is it different to hypnosis?
Unlike traditional hypnosis, VRT does not rely solely on verbal communication to induce an altered state. 93% of our communication is non verbal, 55% of that is visual. This type of communication occurs on a subconscious level and the subconscious mind is the area of the brain we must reach in order for behavioral change to take place. The key to effective guided imagery is the ability to evade the conscious mind and communicate directly with the subconscience. Traditional hypnosis relies on words to induce the patient. Words make up only 7% of our communication and must be filtered and evaluated by the conscious mind.

VRT immerses the patient in a virtual environment where visuals and coordinated audio are used to evade the conscious mind and communicate directly with the limbic system (subconscious mind).

Where is VRT being used?
VRT is currently being used in public hospitals, private medical clinics; by psychiatrists, psychologists and counselors around Australia. Refer to the directory to locate these facilities.

Is VRT dangerous?
Deep relaxation therapy is very safe. Virtual Reality Therapy units are only operated by health care professionals who are trained in its use and provide the appropriate care and supervision. There has never been a documented case of injury in the use of Virtual Reality Therapy. There has never been a documented case of injury in any form of guided imagery, deep realaxation therapy or hypnosis.

Will I lose control?
Virtual Reality Therapy cannot make you do anything against your will. You will always be in control of your thoughts and mental state during the sessions. Anytime you feel that you wish to stop, you can immediately discontinue the program.

How will I feel during the session?
You will feel calm, in control and deeply relaxed. Many people have reported a sense of weightlessness, while others have described a heaviness or a sense of melting into the chair.

How will I feel after the session?
You will feel very relaxed after the session. There may be some mild drowsiness, like waking from a nap. This is normal and will pass in a few seconds. You should then feel refreshed and invigorated throughout the day. Most patients have also reported that they sleep very soundly when they go to bed that night and feel energized the following day.

How will I know if I have been in an altered state?
If you have ever become lost in a daydream, or so engrossed in a movie that you lost track of time and place, then you have been in an altered state. We move in and out of these states many times throughout the day. You may remember every detail of the VRT program or you might only recall sketchy details after the session. Both these sensations are common and in most cases time seems to fly by during the session.

Can I be made to do anything against my will?
No. In order to reach an altered state, you must be a willing participant in the process. You can stop the process simply by deciding you want to.

What is the subconscious mind?
The subconscious mind, also referred to as the limbic system is that part of the mind that operates just beyond conscious awareness. It processes memories, experiences and sensory data. Our conscious mind is in turn influenced by these past experiences to form our behavior and decision making without us being aware of the process. Our belief systems about ourselves and how we interact with the world around us are all formed by the subconscious mind.

More importantly, it has a profound affect on our mental and physical health. This includes the choices we make about how we treat our bodies, the foods and substances we choose to put in it, our self esteem, self confidence and self worth. Our perception of pain and levels of anxiety are also profoundly influenced by these past experiences.

It is in the realm of the subconscious mind that Virtual Reality Therapy focuses on changing these erroneous perceptions and beliefs, replacing them with positive messages and experiences, which will in turn change conscious perception and behaviour. Once again, this can only take place if the patient truly wishes to make these changes.

Will it help me with my pain?
VRT has helped many people with pain including severe burns pain and oncology patients through to migraine, shingles, back injuries and tendonitis. Most experience a reduction in pain levels, some become completely pain free and a small number experience no benefit. Anxiety plays a large part in pain perception and if there is any anxiety present in the patient, there is a greater likelihood of success. If the patient is not responding to analgesic pain control and there is a possibility of psychosomatic pain symptoms, there is a strong likelihood of success with VRT.

What else has VRT been used for?
VRT is used in a wide range of therapeutic applications, including pain management, anxiety, depression, substance and alcohol addictions, weight control and smoking cessation. The list of areas of use is continuously growing.

Will it replace my current medical treatments? Should I stop taking my medication while I’m using the program?
No. VRT is not recommended as a replacement for your current health care program and you should always seek the advice of your doctor regarding medication. While patients have reported a reduction in their pain control medication requirements after VRT, this should only be done under the strict supervision of your doctor.

Who should not use VRT?
Virtual Reality Therapy should not be used on people sensitive to video games or with a history of epileptic seizures.

Your practitioner should discuss your medical history and requirements with you prior to treatment.

Are there any side effects?
You may feel a little drowsy immediately after the session, like waking from a deep sleep. This is normal and should clear in a few moments. There may be some redness of the eyes. This is also normal and often indicates that a deep state of relaxation or altered state of consciousness has been achieved. This should also dissipate quickly.

To learn more or to arrange a demonstration of the technology, contact Virtual Medicine by email or on 1800 NO PAIN (1800 66 7246).