Exploring User Experience and the Therapeutic Relationship of Short-Term Avatar-Based Psychotherapy: Qualitative Pilot Study

This pilot study provides valuable insights into the short-term ABP user experience and therapeutic relationship formation. Our findings suggest that ABP has the potential to reduce barriers to therapy through anonymity, ease of access, and potential for self-disclosure, while allowing for meaningful nonverbal communication. The avatar-self-connection emerged as a crucial factor in the effectiveness of ABP, highlighting the importance of avatar customization in enhancing user engagement and therapeutic outcomes. Future research and development in ABP should focus on improving avatar customization options, enhancing the fidelity of nonverbal cues, and investigating the long-term effectiveness of ABP compared with traditional face-to-face therapy.