Psychedelic replications in virtual reality and their potential as a therapeutic instrument: an open-label feasibility study.
Front Psychiatry March 1, 2023 Karl Kristjan Kaup, Madis Vasser, Kadi Tulver et al. 22 citations
An open-label feasibility study tested whether a virtual reality simulation designed to replicate aspects of the psychedelic experience could be used as a therapeutic tool. Participants reported that the VR experience produced subjective effects resembling those of psychedelics, including altered perception and a sense of oceanic boundlessness. The findings suggest that VR-based psychedelic replications are feasible and acceptable, and may offer a scalable, non-pharmacological approach for mental health interventions. The study did not assess clinical outcomes, but participants showed reduced negative affect after the session. The authors indicate that further controlled research is needed to determine therapeutic efficacy.