Innovative therapy using digital avatars may offer relief for patients suffering from psychosis-related auditory hallucinations, according to a new UK study published in Nature. Known as AVATAR therapy, the approach allows patients to interact with computer-generated avatars that mimic the voices they hear, aiming to reduce the frequency and distress caused by these hallucinations.
The study included 345 participants across multiple UK centers who regularly experienced auditory hallucinations—a common symptom of psychosis. During therapy, patients, with the help of a therapist, created avatars to represent the voices they heard. The therapist, speaking as the avatar using a voice modulation software, helped patients confront these voices directly. "The results of this trial confirm the value of AVATAR therapy for reducing the frequency and distress of persecutory voices in psychosis,” said Professor Mark Huckvale from University College London, who developed the voice software.
Positive Results for Patients
The therapy sessions were conducted in two variations: a six-session version and an extended 12-session program. Both versions were combined with traditional care and compared to a control group that only received standard support. By the 16-week mark, patients who participated in either therapy option reported feeling less distress from the voices compared to the standard care group. At 28 weeks, participants in the 12-session group showed sustained improvements, with a lower occurrence of hallucinations.
Professor Philippa Garety, the study's lead author from King’s College London, highlighted the impact of AVATAR therapy on participants’ lives. “Hearing fewer voices, less often, or having them disappear altogether can be hugely positive,” she noted. One participant, Nick, shared that his sessions helped reduce his experience of abusive voices from around 50 per day to fewer than five, allowing him to regain control over his life.
Looking Ahead: AVATAR Therapy in Clinical Practice
Encouraged by the positive results, researchers hope AVATAR therapy could soon be available within the NHS, with an anticipated rollout by 2025. "We hope to see AVATAR therapy available in several NHS Trusts in 2025,” said Dr. Thomas Ward, the therapy’s lead and co-author of the study.
However, some experts have expressed caution. Alberto Ortiz Lobo, a psychiatrist at Carlos III Day Hospital, observed that the study didn’t compare AVATAR therapy to other forms of intervention beyond standard care. He noted, "The results show improvement at 16 weeks, but the significant difference lessens by 28 weeks."
This research underscores the potential for digital therapies to support those suffering from psychosis, a field likely to grow as technology continues to integrate into mental health care.
Source: Euronews
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