Expanding Access to Care for Underserved Communities with VR

Millions of people in the U.S. still live in areas with little or no access to behavioral health care.

This crisis is especially acute in rural communities, where licensed therapists, group therapy programs, and in-person support are often nonexistent.

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At Good Thoughts, we’re harnessing the power of virtual reality (VR) to change that—offering immersive, therapist-led care that reaches clients no matter where they live.

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The Access Problem

Behavioral health care deserts are a real and pressing issue:

• Many rural counties have no full-time mental health providers.

• Transportation barriers and long waitlists prevent timely support.

• The stigma of seeking help keeps people from walking into clinics.

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Even traditional telehealth, which has become more popular in recent years, has its limits. A video call can feel impersonal, disconnected, and doesn't always offer the sense of presence and continuity that many patients need to thrive in therapy.

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The Licensing Challenge

Regulatory boundaries can further complicate access to care.

In many states, therapists must be licensed in the same state as their clients—even for remote services. That means:

• Therapists are limited to in-state clients, regardless of demand elsewhere.

• Clients in underserved areas are often left with few or no therapy options.

• Group therapy across state lines can be nearly impossible to organize legally.

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This restriction doesn't reflect how people live—or how care should work in a connected world.

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How Good Thoughts Bridges the Gap

Good Thoughts provides a powerful, scalable solution by combining immersive VR technology with therapist-led care. Our platform allows providers to serve clients beyond their immediate geographic area, without sacrificing quality or compliance.

Here’s how we’re expanding access:

• Group and individual therapy sessions in engaging, immersive environments

• Flexible scheduling to accommodate clients across time zones

• Efficient use of therapist time, filling underutilized hours

• No need for physical travel—just a headset and a secure connection

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Whether you're a provider looking to expand your reach or a client without local options, Good Thoughts helps make meaningful connection possible.

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Why It Matters

Access to mental health care should not depend on your ZIP code.

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With virtual reality, we can transform how—and where—therapy happens. Good Thoughts is helping clinics and therapists reach further, bridging the gap for clients in underserved communities.

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Together, we’re making care more available, more engaging, and ultimately, more human.