AI-generated virtual psychedelics bridge digital and therapeutic frontiers in mental health research
Giuseppe Riva, Giulia Brizzi, Clara Rastelli, Antonino Greco
Nature Mental Health February 1, 2026 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.1038/s44220-025-00576-3 via Springer Nature
Summary
Psychedelic-assisted therapy may benefit mental health treatment but encounters various challenges. The use of artificial intelligence and virtual reality is proposed as a way to replicate experiences similar to those from traditional psychedelic compounds, potentially enhancing therapeutic modalities. This approach aims to address regulatory, methodological, and safety issues associated with psychedelic therapies.
Study at a glance
| Key finding | Artificial intelligence and virtual reality could simulate experiences akin to traditional psychedelics for use in therapy. |
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Abstract
Psychedelic-assisted therapy shows promise for mental health treatment but faces regulatory, methodological and safety challenges. In this Comment, we propose using artificial intelligence and virtual reality to simulate similar experiences to those produced by traditional psychedelic compounds for use in psychedelic-assisted therapy modalities.