JAMA Netw Open

Mixed reality exposure therapy shows promise but no significant edge in OCD treatment

May 30, 2025

Study details: This single-center randomized trial evaluated the efficacy of mixed reality exposure and response prevention (MERP) vs. self-guided ERP (SERP) in 36 adults with contamination-related OCD. Participants were randomized equally to either MERP or SERP, with interventions delivered over multiple sessions. The primary outcome was change in OCD symptom severity, measured by the Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS), with secondary outcomes including depression, anxiety, and quality of life.

Results: Both groups showed symptom improvement, but MERP didn't significantly outperform SERP in reducing Y-BOCS scores at post-treatment or follow-up. However, qualitative feedback indicated higher engagement and perceived realism in the MERP group, suggesting potential benefits in patient experience and adherence.

Clinical impact: While MERP didn't yield superior clinical outcomes, its immersive format may enhance patient motivation and treatment adherence. These findings support further exploration of mixed reality as a complementary tool in OCD therapy, particularly for patients who struggle with traditional ERP formats.

Source:

Miegel F, et al. (2025, May 1). JAMA Netw Open. Exposure Therapy in Mixed Reality for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: A Randomized Clinical Trial. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40392553/