August 11,  2024 : 3 min read

Unlocking the Power of Data in VR Therapy: How Good Thoughts is Revolutionizing Mental Health Care

At Good Thoughts, we're pioneering the integration of Virtual Reality (VR) into therapy, transforming how mental health care is delivered. Our innovative approach goes beyond traditional therapy by leveraging data to enhance the effectiveness of each session. In this post, we'll explore how we collect and utilize data through our pre- and post-session questions, why providers are choosing Good Thoughts, and how our summary sheet provides actionable insights into each patient's progress. 

A crucial element of our VR therapy sessions is the data we collect from patients before and after each session, enabling us to tailor treatments and track progress effectively.

The Role of Pre-Session Questions

Before diving into a session, patients are presented with a series of carefully curated questions. These questions are a mix of yes/no responses, questions rated on a scale of 1-10, and questions reflecting activities over the past 7 days, often color-coded for clarity. They are designed to gauge the patient’s current emotional state, identify triggers, and assess coping mechanisms. For instance, questions might include:

• Yes/No Questions:

  • "Do you feel you can identify triggers for your substance use?"

• Open-Ended Questions:

  • "What do you think will be your biggest recovery challenge in the next 7 days?"

• 7-Day Reflection Questions:

  • "In the past 7 days, how many days did you:

    • Have difficulty sleeping? (0-7 days)"

    • Feel depressed? (0-7 days)"

• Scale Questions:

  • "How depressed do you feel right now? (1-10)"

  • "Have you felt an urge or craving to use today? (1-10)"

    
    

These questions are not just random inquiries—they are the result of extensive research led by Hilary Curtis, PhD, LMHC, CCATP, CAIMHP. Dr. Curtis has meticulously designed these questions based on years of previous research and case studies to ensure they elicit the most relevant information, providing a clear picture of the patient’s mental state and readiness for the session.

​

Post-Session Reflection

Following the VR therapy session, patients are prompted to answer a set of questions designed to assess the session's impact on their mental state. These post-session questions are crucial for gauging progress and identifying areas that may require further attention. For instance:

• Yes/No Questions:

  • "Do you believe coping skills can effectively help you manage your substance use?"

• Scale Questions:

  • "On a scale of 1-10, how depressed are you feeling right now?"

  • "On a scale of 1-10, how overwhelmed do you feel by stress right now?"

    
    

These reflective questions encourage patients to evaluate their emotions and thoughts immediately following the session, promoting greater self-awareness and contributing to sustained recovery.

​

The Summary Sheet: A Valuable Resource for Providers

At the end of each session, providers receive a summary sheet that consolidates all the data from that session. This comprehensive overview includes the patient's pre- and post-session responses, key moments from the VR experience, and their engagement with interactive elements like emojis.

The summary sheet offers a clear view of the patient's progress and highlights areas that may require further attention. It typically includes a summary of all patients, their names, the center where they are being treated, and the avatar they have chosen.

Why Providers Choose Good Thoughts

One of the key reasons providers opt for Good Thoughts is our dedication to data-driven therapy. By collecting detailed information before and after each session, we create a comprehensive understanding of each patient’s journey. This data is not just stored away—it is actively used to refine and improve treatment plans, ensuring that therapy is personalized and effective.

​

Good Thoughts is not just a VR therapy platform—it’s a comprehensive solution that empowers providers with the data and insights they need to deliver high-quality, personalized care. Our innovative approach, backed by research and driven by data, ensures that patients receive the support they need on their journey to recovery.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​