InnerVoice

InnerVoice is a project I lead that uses immersive technology to help people in addiction recovery build the confidence and coping skills they need to move forward.

The challenge

Addiction recovery is difficult, and the support available does not always reach people when they need it most. Waiting lists are long, sessions are limited, and there are few safe environments in which to practise real-world coping skills.

Many people in recovery feel isolated between appointments, unsure how to handle triggers and high-risk situations on their own. The gap between clinical support and everyday life is where relapse often happens.

What InnerVoice does

InnerVoice provides a safe, private VR space where people in recovery can practise coping strategies, build resilience and strengthen their self-control, guided by a virtual companion.

Grounded in established therapeutic techniques, it gives people the chance to rehearse difficult situations before they face them in real life. Users take an active role in their own recovery, building confidence at their own pace.

Expected impact

• Stronger recovery. Helping people develop practical coping skills they can rely on in high-risk situations.
• Support between sessions. Filling the gap between clinical appointments, when people are most vulnerable to relapse.
• Extending service reach. Enabling addiction services to support more people without increasing clinical workload.
• Reducing relapse. Giving people the tools and confidence to navigate triggers before they encounter them.

Partners

The project is developed with the University of Northampton, Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, West Northamptonshire Council and Inspire, with funding from Innovate UK through the Accelerated Knowledge Transfer scheme.

Interested in InnerVoice?

Whether you are a commissioner, service provider or researcher, I would love to hear from you. Email me.