[Extended Reality in Psychosomatic Medicine: A Versatile Tool with Broad Applications in Research and Clinical Practice].

Abstract

Objective: Extended reality (XR; virtual, augmented, and mixed reality) opens up new opportunities for psychotherapy and psychosomatic care. The aim of this review is to summarize current applications and the state of evidence regarding XR in psychotherapy and psychosomatic medicine.

Methods: A narrative review of conceptual papers as well as clinical and feasibility studies on the use of XR was conducted, focusing on psychosomatically relevant fields of application. These include evidence-based psychotherapy approaches, the development of innovative disorder-specific interventions, and complementary approaches such as mindfulness, relaxation, or arts-based therapies.

Results: Conceptually, the highly controlled nature of XR, its immersive presentation, and the possibility of perspective-taking (including embodiment of other persons or self-representations) support its potential use. XR variants already exist for many established therapeutic techniques, with virtual exposure therapy being the most extensively studied. Recent innovations emphasize perspective-taking and embodiment, while additional applications are found in relaxation, mindfulness, attention training, and arts-based therapies. While therapists generally express openness toward XR, several practical barriers to broad implementation have been identified.

Discussion: XR constitutes a complementary medium that enables novel experiential dimensions. It holds significant potential for psychosomatic care but requires careful integration into therapeutic frameworks. Key challenges include technical and personnel demands, data protection, and the current lack of reimbursement structures.

Conclusion: XR offers broad potential for psychosomatic medicine. To translate this promise into routine practice, further clinical studies, standardized implementation concepts, and sustainable service structures are needed.