Evidence Based Approach

Grounded in Science, Built with Care

Evidence-based care combines clinical expertise, research-backed methods, and client values. We design our platform to integrate validated therapeutic models with digital tools, making therapy more accessible and relatable for all.

Why Plutonic Virtual Therapy?

A growing body of research shows that using a digital self and virtual spaces can (a) match traditional in-person therapy on symptom reduction with superior therapeutic alliance, and (b) better reach students and young people.

South Korean college students — metaverse vs. in-person counseling (comparative study). Among 60 students, both modalities reduced symptoms from pre- to post-session; no significant difference in change patterns. Working alliance was higher and satisfaction trended higher in the metaverse group. Supports the use of synchronous metaverse programs with college students. PubMed
Korean undergraduates — randomized controlled trial (nature-based VR). Students randomized to VR relaxation, progressive muscle relaxation, or wait-list. VR produced significant reductions in perceived stress and improved subjective sleep, with effects sustained at follow-up. PubMed
Second Life randomized controlled trial (avatar-based psychotherapy). A 12-week Second Life intervention for women with a clinical diagnosis produced statistically and clinically significant improvements vs. control in a registered RCT (Computers in Human Behavior, 2024). ScienceDirect+2ACM Digital Library+2
Avatar-led interventions improve interpersonal effectiveness. Controlled metaverse interactions with an AI-supported avatar measured and improved interpersonal effectiveness (Scientific Reports). Nature
Overview of avatars in e-mental health. Reviews note avatars can facilitate client–therapist communication, social presence, and engagement in online care.

The Need for Regulated AI Mental Health Tools

AI tools for mental health should be clinically designed and regulated to ensure safety, accuracy, and ethical use. Generic chatbots like ChatGPT are not built for therapeutic contexts and can provide unverified, inconsistent, or even harmful advice. Plutonic’s AI companion is grounded in evidence-based frameworks, supervised by licensed clinicians, and developed to meet professional standards of care.

AI mental health chatbots — systematic review & meta-analysis (18 RCTs, n=3,477). Short-course AI chatbot interventions significantly reduced depression and anxiety symptoms compared to controls. Benefits were strongest in the first 8 weeks, with smaller effects at longer follow-up. Confirms therapeutic potential of chatbots for short-term symptom relief. PubMed

Clemson University college students — virtual agent with/without conversational & animation features (RCT, n=209). Over 2 weeks, depressive symptoms, stress, and rumination all decreased significantly from baseline to follow-up regardless of whether the agent was conversational or animated. While conversational and animation features did not significantly change outcomes, agents with animation significantly improved user experience (ease of use, satisfaction, system information arrangement, perceived usefulness). Supports use of virtual agents for mental health apps, with animation helping user engagement. PubMed

Plutonic's Evidence Based Virtual Therapy

Therapy that allows you to safely express yourself and get the support you need

Effective

Research shows cognitive behavioral therapy using virtual spaces and avatars facilitated by licensed mental health professionals can be just as effective as therapy in real life.

Safely Express Your Feelings

Research shows the numerous benefits of using an avatar in a virtual environment. Digital representations of you can create a sense of comfort and allow you to safely express your feelings and experiences. One Australian study found that over 25% of people prefer to speak about negative experiences during therapy in virtual reality versus face to face.

Stay Engaged

Tired of standard virtual therapy and meetings? We all are. Studies show we are more actively engaged and better retain information in immersive environments.