How Virtual Reality is Changing Lives and Transforming Mental Health Care
Tracks
Springbrook Room - In-Person Only
| Monday, March 4, 2024 |
| 11:20 AM - 11:40 AM |
| Springbrook Room |
Overview
Dr Tia Cummins, Flintworks
Speaker
Dr Tia Cummins
CEO
Flintworks
How Virtual Reality is Changing Lives and Transforming Mental Health Care
Abstract
Virtual Reality (VR) is transforming the face of mental health care, with a multifaceted impact that is revolutionising therapeutic approaches and the patient experience. With recent advances in immersive technologies, VR has joined the mainstream, offering innovative solutions to a broad range of health challenges; from medical education through to PTSD treatment. This presentation offers a comprehensive exploration of the transformative journey mental health care has undertaken with the advent of this cutting-edge technology, most notably within veteran and first
responder PTSD care.
Tracing the historical evolution of VR in mental health, from the early 90s to present day, the presentation will provide insights into the current state and future trajectory of this digital therapeutic. Surveying the mental health care landscape, the presentation will highlight both how VR can bridge longstanding gaps within mental health care, and the challenges faced in delivering these technologies within the field.
A discussion around leaders in the field, including the Flintworks' VR therapy platform, will emphasise practical applications and benefits of VR in clinical treatment. The presentation aims to foster an understanding of how VR can be harnessed today to support clinicians in their work and maximise positive patient outcomes.
The session invites reflection on collaborative efforts within the mental health care sector, encouraging a dialogue on how stakeholders can collaboratively navigate the challenges associated with VR adoption. By exploring the synergies between the technology and mental health care, the presentation advocates for a collective approach to optimise the potential of VR in addressing the diverse needs of both patients and clinicians.
responder PTSD care.
Tracing the historical evolution of VR in mental health, from the early 90s to present day, the presentation will provide insights into the current state and future trajectory of this digital therapeutic. Surveying the mental health care landscape, the presentation will highlight both how VR can bridge longstanding gaps within mental health care, and the challenges faced in delivering these technologies within the field.
A discussion around leaders in the field, including the Flintworks' VR therapy platform, will emphasise practical applications and benefits of VR in clinical treatment. The presentation aims to foster an understanding of how VR can be harnessed today to support clinicians in their work and maximise positive patient outcomes.
The session invites reflection on collaborative efforts within the mental health care sector, encouraging a dialogue on how stakeholders can collaboratively navigate the challenges associated with VR adoption. By exploring the synergies between the technology and mental health care, the presentation advocates for a collective approach to optimise the potential of VR in addressing the diverse needs of both patients and clinicians.
Biography
Dr Tia Cummins is a clinical neuroscientist and CEO of Flintworks, a company at the forefront of revolutionising mental health treatment through its Virtual Reality therapy platform.
Dr Cummins’ career has spanned military, academic and corporate sectors. Having served in the British Forces, she gained invaluable insights into the realities of mental health challenges faced by veterans. Dr Cummins completed her Ph.D. on the long term effects of trauma in Vietnam Veterans. Her work resulted in a deep understanding of the critical need for innovation in mental health care, which propelled Dr Cummins to leave academia and found Flintworks.
