| | NOVEMBER 20209UTLOOKHealthcare Tech world, which is mixed reality (MR). Each of these realities is known collectively as XR. With this new lens, we see virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) as one opportunity to create an experience that engages the people we serve in a way that other treatments may not. While most people think of the use of XR realities being used in the realm of entertainment ­ video games and other computer-generated experiences ­ however, like many new technologies, it has multiple applications. These tools can effectively recreate evidence-based practices. Already utilized in physical health environments, for example, as distraction mechanisms (VR) or as a teaching tool (AR), XR tools and solutions are widely accepted as common practice. In behavioral health, XR tools enhance the therapeutic experience and have been around for many years. The cost barrier to entry to using these tools has decreased, and the tools have become more robust, making the XR toolkit more accessible to all levels of treatment and use. The devices create a viable platform for applications and processes that are shared between the individual and the therapist. Virtual reality creates high fidelity analog for evidence-based treatments such as exposure therapy to self-supporting meditation for anxiety disorders. Each of these tools extends a therapist's tool kit for treatment. Not only can this tool be used in a high-level therapeutic session, but it can also be used with case managers and peer support managers. By extending the use of these tools, we can manage the technology in a way that can benefit a greater number of individuals whom we believe will be more engaged in their treatment journeys. The Mental Health Center of Denver currently manages a portfolio of several XR tools and solutions in our Innovation Technology Lab. Through our partnerships with organizations such as the National Mental Health Innovation Center (NMHIC), we have created a pipeline that takes research from science to service in the real world. It is here where we explore the efficacy of XR solutions. They include using VR as a meditative mindfulness prompt in group therapy sessions. We are also exploring how VR and AR can be part of a therapist's tool kit for one on one engagement, such as using VR for exposure therapy for social anxiety disorders for both adults and adolescents. To assess XR-type technology solutions, we utilize an internal innovation process to determine the effectiveness of therapeutic practices, in addition to determining alignment into our overall strategy for community behavioral health support. Our mission is to support all the lives in Denver and provide them with extraordinary experiences. The use of these technologies, such as an XR toolkit, allows our organization to engage our community in a way that meets their needs and, most importantly, the expectation that we provide useful and engaging therapeutic services. Although there are limits to any technology, our willingness to explore the therapeutic innovation of an XR toolkit allows us to go above and beyond to meet our communities' expectations. HT
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