Jessica Stone, Ph.D., RPT-S, is a licensed psychologist with over 30 years of experience as a practitioner, professor, presenter, mentor, and author. She is a recognized leader in the integration of digital tools within mental health treatment, particularly in the use of virtual reality (VR), AI, and other immersive technologies. Dr. Stone’s innovative work has significantly advanced the field of clinical mental health by exploring novel applications of VR in therapy, medical settings, and crisis interventions.

Dr. Stone is the co-creator of the Virtual Sandtray® App for iPad and its VR adaptation (VSA-VR), groundbreaking tools that have redefined therapeutic approaches by allowing for immersive and interactive client experiences. Her pioneering research and clinical applications of these tools have been utilized in diverse settings, including telehealth, trauma-informed care, and therapeutic interventions for neurodivergent populations.

Previously, Dr. Stone served as Chief Psychology Officer for AscendantVR, where she led teams in the development of immersive technology products. She currently holds leadership roles as the CEO of Virtual Sandtray®, the Founder and Chair of the Mental Health Virtual Reality International Coalition, and as a board member for several professional organizations focused on advancing mental health treatment.

In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Stone is actively involved in research and academia. She is a guest associate editor for Frontiers: Virtual Reality in Pediatric Medicine and an affiliate of the East Carolina University College of Education Neurocognition Science Laboratory. Her publications, including MHVR: The Power of Immersive Worlds, Technology in Mental Health: Foundations of Clinical Use, and Digital Play Therapy, reflect her dedication to exploring the intersection of technology and therapeutic practice.

A sought-after speaker, Dr. Stone has presented internationally on the use of VR in mental health treatment, sharing her expertise at conferences, including the International Virtual Reality Health Association Conference and multiple national and international psychological associations, including APA. Her recent work has focused on exploring the benefits of immersive technologies for enhancing therapeutic outcomes and providing accessible care across diverse populations.

Dr. Stone's commitment to innovation and her trailblazing efforts in integrating technology into mental health make her a respected and influential voice in the field. She continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in therapy, advocating for the thoughtful and ethical adoption of digital tools to enhance client care and improve access to mental health services.