Bloomington Leader

An undergraduate student, a psychiatric researcher, and the founder of a digital arts company are collaborating to expand the reach of virtual-reality-based addiction therapy. Supported by Indiana University, this initiative aims to aid individuals in recovery by introducing them to their "future selves."

Izzy Branam, a junior psychology major at IU Bloomington, serves as the CEO of Relate XR. The startup integrates psychology with VR technology to treat substance use disorders. The technology is based on research developed by Brandon Oberlin, an assistant professor at IU School of Medicine and IU School of Science.

The company's third partner is Andrew Nelson, an IU alumnus and founder of a virtual reality development company in Indianapolis. Nelson collaborated with Oberlin on prototyping the technology and software development.

Relate XR's formation was facilitated by IU Innovates, which supports entrepreneurship and innovation at Indiana University. Branam said about joining the team: “When I joined the team, I had no background with topics like medical device regulation and reimbursement...I spent the first year paying down my ignorance debt.”

Branam previously won the 2021 Innovate WithIN competition for high school students hosted by STARTedUP Foundation. He also founded a record label for teenage musicians.

Oberlin sought collaboration after developing research on "future-self avatars" in addiction recovery. This VR approach allows individuals to see digital representations of themselves achieving personal goals versus not staying in recovery.

“There are a number of approaches that have been tried to help people value their future more than their present," Oberlin stated. "VR offers a uniquely immersive experience.”

Testing began on local patients across central Indiana with nearly 100 enrollees participating in clinical trials. However, expanding into a business required more expertise, leading to Branam's involvement through IU's support.

Branam commented on their collaboration: “I think the diversity of this group in terms of skills, demographics and ages makes for a really strong team.”

Relate XR has been nominated for several TechPoint MIRA Awards including Startup of the Year and Life Sciences Innovation of the Year. Branam was nominated as Rising Entrepreneur of the Year.

Branam emphasized his dedication: “I truly believe this technology has the opportunity to positively impact a lot of lives that desperately need support.”

In addition to leading Relate XR, Branam works as a community manager at IU Innovates where he facilitates outreach efforts for student entrepreneurs.

“It’s going to sound cliche," Branam remarked about his journey at IU, "but the Hoosier hospitality is incredible.”