Dr. Michael Gabriel of GPM Pediatrics, a Top Staten Island Pediatrics Clinic, Responds to Article Discussing How Children Overcame Fears in Virtual World

BOHEMIA, N.Y., July 24, 2014 /PRNewswire-iReach/ -- Dr. Michael Gabriel of a leading Staten Island Pediatrics clinic, GPM Pediatrics, responds to an article, describing a study where autistic children overcame their real-world fears in a new virtual world treatment.

According to the study in an article on Health Canal, "In a study published…in PLOS ONE, experts at Newcastle University describe how, following treatment in an immersive virtual reality room, eight out of nine children were able to tackle the situation they feared."

The results concluded, "Four children were found to have completely overcome their phobias. The effect of the treatment was still in place one year later."

The study included a virtual environment, which progressively presented the children with a real-life situation they feared. With a "360 degree seamless screened room with no point of external reference" which included "audio visual images representing the 'real world'", the children were able to move around with an iPad to control the environment.

Finally, the children were "supported by a psychologist, they were given breathing and relaxation exercises in the controllable and safe virtual environment to help them to learn to cope with that situation."

One of the case studies included the Parker family. "Mark Parker lives in South Shields with his wife and their 11 year old son, who suffers from autism. He has a severe fear of heights, which caused problems for the family when they wanted to go out." The treatment was able to help the child overcome his fear and walk over a bridge.

Dr. Michael Gabriel of GPM Pediatrics is very pleased by the results. "It is great that a treatment like this was as successful as it was. Autistic children need help in many areas and some in certain areas. This treatment was able to give eight families a chance to change their lives in big ways."

GPM Pediatrics provides comprehensive pediatric care to children throughout the New York area with practices both in Brooklyn and Staten Island. Our board certified pediatricians and experienced staff help provide a very warm and nurturing environment for both you and your children. Our approach combines the latest treatment methods with the personal attention you should expect from your doctor. Simply put, we understand the importance of communication and trust and we are earning that trust one family at a time.

Media Contact: Scott Darrohn, GPM Pediatrics, 855-347-4228, [email protected]

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SOURCE GPM Pediatrics