Virtual Reality in Therapy: Optimizing Exposure & Engagement with Gwilym Roddick, DSW, LCSW & Melanie Smith, PhD, LMHC, CEDS-C
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Episode Summary: In this powerful episode of The Affirming Minds Podcast, host Shaina Siber sits down with Dr. Gwilym Roddick and Dr. Melanie Smith—two national leaders in the clinical integration of virtual reality (VR)—to explore how immersive technology is transforming psychotherapy. From exposure therapy and phobia work to trauma-informed care and culturally responsive adaptations, this conversation goes deep into how therapists can ethically and effectively use VR to expand client access, support emotional growth, and stay centered in human connection.
The conversation also honors the late Dr. Elizabeth McMahon and her groundbreaking work in VR-assisted therapy for anxiety. Whether you're VR-curious or tech-skeptical, this episode offers practical insight, clinical guidance, and next steps for bringing innovation into your therapeutic practice.
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Learning Objectives:
- Describe at least two clinical applications of VR in psychotherapy.
- Identify one benefit and one limitation of integrating VR into evidence-based practice.
- Analyze ethical and practical considerations for using VR with clients.
- Explain how VR-based interventions can support trauma-informed and culturally responsive care.
- Evaluate the emerging research base and identify future areas of application.
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About Our Guests:
- Gwilym Roddick is a licensed clinical social worker, founder of CBT of Central & South Florida, Chair of the ABCT Masters-Level SIG, and a clinical advisor for PsyTech VR. He specializes in exposure-based treatment, anxiety, OCD, and immersive technology in therapy. Gwilym is also the founder of Behavioral Innovations Institute.
- Melanie Smith is a licensed mental health counselor, CEDS-C, and trainer in the Unified Protocol. She has nearly two decades of experience treating complex eating disorders and anxiety-based disorders and is a co-author of The Renfrew Unified Treatment Model for Eating Disorders and Comorbidity. She practices at CBT of Central & South Florida and is an advisor for PsyTech VR.
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About PsyTechVR - See the Tech:
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Conflict of Interest Disclosure: The host, Shaina Siber-Sanderowitz, LCSW, is the Founder of Affirm Mental Health, an accredited CE provider. She receives financial compensation from Affirm Mental Health for the development and delivery of continuing education content. There are no other conflicts of interest to disclose.
Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for clinical training or treatment. If you or someone you know needs mental health support, please reach out to a licensed professional.
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