CompletedNot SpecifiedInterventional

Virtual Reality for Visions (VRV)

The VRV study is looking into a new way to help people who experience 'visions' – seeing things that others can't. These experiences can be distressing, especially for people with conditions like psychosis. Currently, there isn't a specific treatment for these visions. This study aims to change that. Working with an experienced therapist, participants will learn why visions happen, how common they are, and new ways to cope. They will use virtual reality to practise managing their visions in a safe space. The main goal is to reduce how much these visions bother people and improve their quality of life. The study involves people who have experienced visions themselves, helping to make the treatment as effective and helpful as possible.

At a glance

Status

Completed

Phase

Not Specified

Sponsor

Cumbria Northumberland Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust

Enrolment target

Start

04 Jul 2025

Estimated completion

28 May 2026

Virtual reality treatment for people with lived experience of visual hallucination

What is this study about?

Many people experience 'visions' – seeing things that others don't. These experiences are particularly common for people with conditions grouped under the term 'psychosis', which means they might also hear things or have beliefs that others don't share. While these visions can be very upsetting, there isn't currently a specific treatment to help people manage them.

This study, called Virtual Reality for Visions (VRV), aims to develop and test a new approach. It brings together experienced therapists and virtual reality (VR) technology. During the study, a therapist will help you understand more about why visions happen and how common they are. You'll also learn new ways to manage these experiences. Using VR, you'll get to practise these coping strategies in a supportive and controlled setting, helping you build confidence to handle visions differently in your daily life.

The main goal of this research is to reduce the distress that visions can cause and lessen their impact on your life. The study has been designed with input from people who have experienced visions themselves, ensuring that it addresses their real-life needs and concerns. Their insights will continue to guide the project, making sure the treatment is as helpful as possible.

Key takeaways

This study explores a new VR treatment for people who experience visions.
It aims to reduce distress and help you manage your visions better.
You'll work with a therapist and use VR in a safe, controlled setting.
The study was designed with input from people who have experienced visions.
It involves 4-6 therapy sessions and 4-6 VR sessions, plus assessment appointments.
You can stop participating at any time.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for people who are 16 years old or older, generally up to about 65. You should be currently receiving care from mental health services that help with conditions like psychosis.

You would be a good fit if you have experienced visions (seeing things that aren't there) for at least three months, and you are interested in trying a new talking therapy specifically for these visions. It's also important that you are well enough to understand what's involved and give your permission to take part, and that your doctor thinks you've been stable for the past month.

However, this study might not be suitable if you have certain learning difficulties, severe memory problems, or if your main health issue is related to drug or alcohol use, brain injury, or dementia. Also, if you can't use virtual reality safely – for example, if you have epilepsy or very poor eyesight – then this study won't be right for you.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 16 years old or older, and generally under 65?
Are you currently receiving mental health care from services that support people with conditions like psychosis?
Have you experienced visions (seeing things that aren't there) for at least three months?
Are you interested in a talking therapy specifically for your visions?
Do you feel well enough to understand and agree to take part?
Can you safely use virtual reality (e.g., no severe epilepsy or very poor eyesight)?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you join the study, you will have between 4 to 6 sessions with a therapist to learn about visions and new ways to manage them. You'll also have 4 to 6 virtual reality (VR) therapy sessions. These VR sessions will help you practise managing your visions in a safe environment. Throughout the study, you'll attend some assessment appointments: one before therapy starts, one halfway through (around 6 weeks), and two more after therapy finishes (at 12 and 16 weeks). The research team may also ask to interview you in more detail to get your views on how to improve the treatment. The entire study period, from start to your last follow-up, will take about 16 weeks.

Potential risks and benefits

The main benefit of taking part is knowing that you are contributing to important research that could improve care for many people who experience visions in the future. There's a small chance you might feel a bit upset or anxious when talking about your experiences or seeing representations of your visions in VR. However, a therapist will be with you throughout your sessions, and you can ask them to stop at any time. It's fine to take a break or stop a session if you feel overwhelmed. While most people find VR fine, some might feel a bit dizzy or tired afterwards. You can bring a family member or friend to your sessions for support. Remember, taking part is completely voluntary, and you can always decide to stop at any time without giving a reason.

Locations (1)

St Nicholas Hospital
Approximate
Newcastle upon Tyne, England

Common questions

What are 'visions'?

Visions are when you see things that other people cannot see. These are also called visual hallucinations.

What is psychosis?

Psychosis is a term for several conditions where people might be distressed by seeing, hearing, or believing things that others don't.

How does virtual reality (VR) help?

VR offers a safe space to practise new ways of managing your visions, helping you build confidence with the support of a therapist.

Can I bring someone with me to the sessions?

Yes, a family member or friend can join you for the sessions if you would like them to.

Who is paying for this study?

The study is funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) in the UK.

How to find out more

Rob Dudley

rob.dudley@cntw.nhs.uk +44 (0)191 232 2020 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.