The use of virtual reality technologies in practical psychology: Russian and international experience

Virtual reality is one of the promising technologies for practical psychology. It provides the opportunity to create highly realistic, interactive, and systematically controlled stimulus environments in which researchers, medical professionals, and psychologists can accurately manage complex, multisensory, and dynamic 3D presentations of stimuli. The subject of this article is the study of the characteristics and effectiveness of virtual reality technologies in practical psychology, with an emphasis on both Russian and international experience. In particular, the research covers the use of virtual reality to create controlled, interactive, and immersive virtual environments that are applied in psychotherapy and psychological diagnostics. Key areas of VR technology use are discussed, including the treatment of phobias, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, and addictions, as well as pain management. To address problematic questions and achieve the study's objectives, theoretical research methods were employed: analysis, generalization, and synthesis of data from research in the field of virtual reality technology application in psychological practice. The scientific novelty of the study lies in the comprehensive interdisciplinary analysis and systematization of both current and prospective opportunities for using virtual reality technologies in practical psychology across different countries. For the first time, a summary of data on diverse approaches to the application of VR in psychological practice has been carried out, key factors influencing the success of implementation have been identified, and directions for further research and development have been outlined. This provides not only a theoretical basis for understanding the potential of virtual reality technologies but also practical recommendations for specialists working in the field of psychological assistance. The analysis conducted on the experience of applying virtual reality technologies in psychology reveals several key trends and fundamentally new aspects in understanding and using different types of reality to address psychotherapeutic and diagnostic tasks. Virtual reality technologies represent a promising tool for practical psychology, combining innovation with proven effectiveness. Despite existing barriers (technical, financial, and professional), the potential of VR in the therapy of anxiety disorders, phobias, eating disorders, addictions, and pain management is evident. Further research should focus on standardizing methods, increasing sample sizes, and studying long-term effects.