Welcome to Discover U! On this episode, straight from the Emerging Themes Behavioral Health Conference, host JD Kalmenson (CEO of Montclair Behavioral Health) talks with the one-and-only Dr. Skip Rizzo. He's the brains behind Medical Virtual Reality at USC's Institute for Creative Technologies, and he’s got some mind-blowing stuff to share.

Dr. Rizzo breaks down how VR is becoming a total game-changer for mental well-being. You'll hear about:

(00:01:13) The awesome "Game Boy story" that first sparked his ideas for VR in brain injury rehab.
(00:03:05) What makes VR tick for therapy? Think super-controlled, immersive worlds designed for healing and growth.
(00:06:16) VR's rollercoaster history: From 90s sci-fi movies to today's powerful headsets (and how the gaming world accidentally helped fund it!).
(00:09:28) Using VR to help veterans face PTSD, new ways to support military sexual trauma survivors, and even inspiring global efforts in places like Ukraine and Israel.
(00:15:12) What therapists actually need to know to use VR – and how it can make the connection with their patients even stronger.
(00:18:00) Could VR help us build resilience and maybe even head off some mental health struggles before they start?
(00:20:07) Where can you actually find VR therapy today? (Hint: The VA is already a big believer!)
(00:26:02) The great news: VR is here to boost therapists and the crucial human connection in healing, not replace it.
If you're curious about how tech is making a real difference for people dealing with PTSD, autism, ADHD, Alzheimer's, pain, and so much more.

Follow JD at JDKalmenson.com