Introduction to Augmented Reality Therapy
Groundbreaking work within the realm of augmented reality helps to heal first responders and refugees with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The Wayne State University School of Medicine Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences is on the forefront of this revolutionary treatment, led by Associate Professor Arash Javanbakht, M.D.
What is Augmented Reality?
Augmented reality, or AR, is an interactive human-computer technology that permits mixing virtually-created objects with reality. Instead of making a totally synthetic environment, as with virtual reality, AR adds objects to the true world. This technology provides therapists with a wide range of feared objects and situations to make use of for exposure therapy, helping patients to contextualize safety learning in real-life environments.
The STARC Lab’s Innovative Approach
The STARC Lab’s AR technology features a wide forged of characters for patients to interact with as a part of their treatment. The patient’s AR headset wirelessly connects to the therapist’s computer, where the therapist can see a three-dimensional map of the patient’s environment. This allows for a more immersive and realistic experience, helping patients to beat their fears and anxieties. The lab has created a military of characters of diverse age, sex, race, and behavior, enabling transdiagnostic use across diverse mental disorders.
Recognition and Accolades
Dr. Javanbakht’s work has garnered significant recognition, including the 2025 International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies Mid-Career Innovation Award. He has also received the ISTSS Distinguished Mentor Award and has chaired symposia sharing the lab’s work with refugees. The lab’s technology has been showcased at various conferences, including the Anxiety and Depression Association of America’s annual meeting.
Advancements and Future Plans
The team has recently migrated the technology to Apple Vision Pro headsets, considered cutting-edge for AR. They are also working on a U.S. Department of Defense-funded clinical trial to be used with veterans who’ve PTSD. Dr. Javanbakht is collaborating with Apple and plans to disseminate the technology to pick clinics across the state.
The Team Behind the Technology
Dr. Javanbakht acknowledges the labor of his colleagues, including STARC Research Manager Kathleen Gorski, Project Coordinator Alex Ballard, and Postdoctoral Fellow Liza Hinchey, Ph.D. The team’s dedication and expertise have been instrumental in creating this world-class technology.
Conclusion
The STARC Lab’s revolutionary use of augmented reality is revolutionizing the treatment of PTSD and other mental health disorders. With its immersive and realistic approach, this technology has the potential to assist countless individuals overcome their struggles and improve their lives. As the lab continues to advance and expand its technology, it is evident that that is only the start of a brand new era in mental health treatment. To learn more concerning the STARC Lab’s projects and see videos of the technology in motion, visit www.starclab.org/projects.
