Just returned from the American Psychology Association’s Annual Conference in Toronto.  Attended a great Plenary session entitled “Next Stop: Virtual Environment Psychology and Therapy.”  For more on innovative technology related to the art and science of human behavior, I recommend taking a look at http://www.psychology21c.com/ve

First there was the generational divide; then there was the digital divide; now there is the virtual divide. Where does all this division lead? Division, in and of itself, is neither taking from nor giving to. It is both. The division of age groups, of those with access to the internet, and of those interacting in virtual worlds presents complex issues that basic computation cannot illuminate. What is needed, in my opinion, is empathy, wisdom, and the means to lessen the gaps.

~ Suzanne Roff, PhD

Lately I been asking the question, ” how can web2.0 technology assist psychologists across a wide range of professional activities?  The answer is much too lengthy for a single blog.

Sure there is the potential to join social networks, blog, twitter, do a podcast in a specialty area — but what else?    Web2.o is great for those of us who love researching things.  I couldn’t survive without delicious and soon I will be twittering around (inside joke for wannabe technophiles like me).

Yesterday I decided to take an hour to explore my question.   I came across the Internet2 Health Science Initiative which facilitates the use of advanced network applications in practice, research, and awareness.  It focuses on medical healthcare but demonstrates the potential of Web2.0 and social networking to increase knowledge sharing and subsequently patient care.  Sounds great to me!  The projects range from virtual environment technologies for cardiology to providing rural outreach services.  From a “”health”  mind/body perspective, psychology was clearly missing from this initiative.  Is any one listening here?

One very exciting way that Web 2.o is assisting psychologists is in the treatment of phobias and PTSD.   Virtually Better is an innovator in applying virtual environments to healthcare and operates a clinic to treat “mental health needs and life stressors.”  I’ve met the CEO Walter Greenleaf and he is clearly committed to making a difference.

I welcome your comments.  There’s no more doing anything alone because we’re all connected through web2.0.

Suzanne Roff, PhD