Virtual reality therapy for people hearing voices
Official title: Virtual Reality Therapy for Voice Hearing (VR-VOICES): a Randomized Controlled Trial
Run by University Medical Center Groningen · NCT06013748 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new virtual reality therapy to see if it can help people who hear distressing voices feel better and gain control over their experiences.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 16 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 112 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University Medical Center Groningen Academic / other |
| Locations | 3 sites (Groningen, Provincie Groningen and 2 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | October 31, 2022 |
| Main results expected | February 1, 2026 |
| Study ends | February 1, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | September 10, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06013748 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are individuals aged 16 and older with a DSM-5 diagnosis who have experienced distressing auditory verbal hallucinations for at least three months.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with primary substance use disorders, organic brain diseases, or those unable to communicate in Dutch may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This clinical trial investigates the effectiveness of a novel virtual reality therapy (VR-VOICES) designed to help patients experiencing distressing auditory verbal hallucinations (AVH). Participants will engage in 7-10 sessions of VR-assisted therapy, where they create a digital avatar representing the voice they hear, allowing them to interact and gain control over it. The study compares the outcomes of this VR intervention against standard treatment approaches, assessing changes in the severity and frequency of AVH, as well as overall quality of life. The trial aims to provide a more effective psychological intervention for individuals with psychiatric disorders who struggle with AVH.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this therapy could significantly reduce the distress and frequency of auditory hallucinations for patients, improving their quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Preliminary studies suggest that similar innovative psychological therapies using avatars have shown promise, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Having a DSM-5 diagnosis of a psychiatric disorder * Distressing AVH for minimally 3 months. * Age 16 years or older Exclusion Criteria: * Insufficient command of the Dutch language * Unable to provide informed consent * Primary diagnosis of a substance use disorder, or organic brain disease (such as dementia) * A degree of substance abuse that hinders treatment adherence * Auditory verbal hallucinations in a language not spoken by therapists * Patients cannot receive CBT specifically focused at gaining empowerment over voices during the study period or 6 months prior to enrolment.
Where it's running
-
GGZ Drenthe
Assen, Netherlands Recruiting -
University Medical Center Groningen
Groningen, Netherlands Recruiting -
Lentis
Groningen, Provincie Groningen, Netherlands Not yet recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Chris Geraets, dr
- Email: c.n.w.geraets@umcg.nl
- Phone: 0031649231353
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.