People in psychosis make the digital animations to match the voices they hear.
Under the supervision of a therapist, they subsequently role-play with the avatar, learning how to resist their tormentor.
According to a study conducted by clinical psychologists at Kings College London (KCL), avatar therapy can lessen voice distress and frequency in as little as a few sessions.
Ruth’s condition kept her in the hospital for more than five years.
“They sometimes do a running commentary of everything I’m doing,” she added.
At other times, they seem to be shouting and screaming right into my ear. It can be draining.
The things the avatar would say when I first started using it may be quite harsh at times.
However, I eventually discovered that I could silence that voice.
