CompletedNot Applicable

Telemedicine-Based Virtual Reality Clinic for the Treatment of Phobias

United States54 participantsStarted 2023-10-25

Plain-language summary

The purpose of this study is to assess the feasibility of conducting a randomized controlled efficacy trial comparing the delivery of exposure therapy via a telemedicine-based virtual reality clinic (Doxy.me VR) vs. standard telemental health (TMH) to adults with intense fear of dogs, snakes, and/or spiders. The secondary purpose is to preliminarily examine the efficacy of using Doxy.me VR vs. TMH in reducing phobia severity.

Who can participate

Age range

18 Years

Sex

ALL

See this in plain English?

AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.

Inclusion criteria

. Is an adult ≥ 18 years old
. Has a self-reported fear of dogs, snakes, and/or spiders
. Indicates Subthreshold or Present Specific Phobia symptoms as determined by the study therapist via administration of the Diagnostic Assessment Research Tool (DART) Specific Phobia Module
. Has access to the internet AND a computer OR smartphone with video conferencing capabilities
. Will reside in the state of Florida for the duration of the study

Exclusion criteria

. Is participating in ongoing mental health therapy from a non-study therapist

Questions worth asking your doctor

Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.

1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?

Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.

Questions for the trial coordinator

The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.

1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?

A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.

What they're measuring

Phobia Symptom Severity

Timeframe: Baseline, 6 Weeks Post-Baseline, and 3 Months Post-Baseline

Trial details

NCT IDNCT06302868

SponsorUniversity of South Florida

Sponsor typeOTHER

Study typeINTERVENTIONAL

Primary completion2024-07-26

Results submitted2025-12-19

View on ClinicalTrials.gov More Arachnophobia trials