Taylor’s University is breaking new ground in mental health education with the integration of Extended Reality (XR) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies. Spearheaded by the university’s VORTEX (Virtual Online Future Technology and Extended Reality) XR Lab, these innovations are reshaping psychotherapy education, equipping future professionals with the tools needed to address the evolving mental health landscape.

This first of its kind initiative within the education institution in Malaysia positions Taylor’s at the forefront of XR and AI adoption in mental health education. The combination of immersive XR simulations with AI-driven tools offers students and professionals ways to revolutionise traditional approaches to mental health support.

Psychotherapy through XR and AI

The innovation featured the use of immersive XR simulations that replicate real-world therapy scenarios, such as role-playing sessions with AI avatars. These avatars simulate diverse mental health challenges, allowing students to practice empathetic listening, emotional validation, and intervention techniques. The experience deepens their understanding of patient perspectives, fostering emotional sensitivity and real-world readiness.

Complementing this, XR AI-powered tools such as Avatar Seren provide real-time mental health assessments by analysing patient interactions, tracking progress, and delivering protocolised therapy techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). These technologies empower users to explore coping strategies, articulate emotions, and address cognitive distortions. 

Additionally, the project Inside Spectrum VR, a VR autism simulation is designed to let educators experience the world through the eyes of autistic students, promoting inclusivity and awareness.

“By integrating XR and AI into our curriculum, we’re offering experiential learning opportunities that go beyond theory,” explained Ts John Hii Ing Kieng, Director, VORTEX XR Lab. “Students and professionals can now develop critical skills through simulated, real-world scenarios, better preparing them for the complexities of modern mental health practice.”

Driving the Future of Mental Health

The innovations were unveiled at Taylor’s University’s World Mental Health Day event, themed “Innovations for a Healthier Mind and Safer Digital World.” Hosted by the Mental Health and Well-being Impact Lab under the leaderships of Professor Dato Dr. Andrew Mohanraj (Director) and Dr. Hiran Shanake Perera (Deputy Director) and sponsored by the Malaysian Mental Health Association (MMHA), the event also featured expert-led discussions on advancing mental health education and a student-led creative film competition focused on mental health awareness. Students from various disciplines submitted compelling visual narratives that tackled the stigma surrounding mental health issues, depicting resilience and the power of support systems. 

Reflecting on the event’s success, Professor Dato Dr. Andrew Mohanraj remarked “This event stands as a testament to Taylor’s University’s unwavering dedication to mental health advocacy. By integrating innovation, creativity, and collaboration, we are redefining how mental health education is approached and ensuring that meaningful support systems are in place for our community and beyond.”

With plans to expand collaborations with industry partners and integrate XR-AI into educational curricula, Taylor’s University is setting a new standard for mental health training—one that bridges technology, empathy, and accessibility to redefine care for future generations.

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