Virtual Healing

Can virtual reality therapy help bring healing to people who suffer with PTSD?

Natasha Young was a spirited and proud young Marine when she went to Iraq several years ago as a member of a close-knit unit tasked with disabling IEDs (improvised explosive devices, also known as roadside bombs) before they could be detonated by the enemy and kill or injure friendly troops. The unit was always busy at this highly stressful and dangerous work.

Staff Sgt. Young did two tours in Iraq, and, on the second tour of duty, six of her fellow Marines were killed when the bombs they were diffusing went off. Each death was a staggering punch to the gut for her and the rest of the unit. The unit's commander took his own life after they returned home. Young broke down physically, emotionally and mentally and was diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), which led to a medical discharge from the Marine Corps.

"I was ashamed of myself," says Sgt. Young; once a strong warrior who could now no longer function. She is not alone. Of the 2.4 million Americans who have been...