Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy for Claustrophobia : Evaluating usability and usefulness by clinicians

One of the most common anxiety disorders affecting the general population is claustrophobia. This article presents a Virtual Reality (VR) application that simulates an elevator that can manage the patients' fear in a controlled way and help them handle their claustrophobia. Seven clinical professionals evaluated the application through eight sessions. Data were collected via the Systematic Usability Scale (SUS), interviews, and observations by professionals expecting to use it. The results show the usefulness of the application and its ability to manage anxiety attacks. In addition, it shows the importance of considering separate evaluations from professionals already in the design of applications. They are enabling the use of this technology in practice, and their view illustrates the importance of obtaining meaningful feedback when developing practical therapeutic technologies.