The application of well-being and positive psychology strategies in a virtual reality protocol: a case report

This is a single case study that describes the application of a new Virtual Reality (VR) software aimed at promoting well-being in a university counselling setting. The patient completed specific psychometric questionnaires before and after an individual intervention in which 6 clinical sessions were performed with the integration of the H.OME_Positivity VR software. The assessment included measures of depression, anxiety, mental health, coping strategies, positive and negative affect, resilience and personality dimensions. An ABA design and the Reliable Change Index were used as indicators of changes. Before the intervention, the patient reported high levels of stress, together with anxious and depressive symptomatology. The intervention yielded reduction in negative affect and maladaptive coping strategies and increased autonomy. Qualitative analyses revealed that the participant reported a general improvement in well-being and an enhancement of personal resources in managing stress and anxiety. Such progress was also confirmed by clinical observation. Despite the limited generalizability of the results, this case report highlights the utility and cost-effectiveness of this type of intervention, suggesting the possibility of integrating VR software into university counselling services.