Real life fears, Second Life therapy

Have you ever heard of the game Second Life? It's a virtual world experienced via the computer, much like popular video games. People immerse themselves in this world by trying to build an online persona called avatars. In fact, lifetime accounts can be purchased for $225.

But unlike other games, Second Life offers a world where people's avatars can do just about anything -- even seek therapy. CBS has a remarkable story about a woman who suffered from agoraphobia, which kept her locked inside unable to even go shopping at the grocery store. But after signing up for an SL account and building a character named "Baji," Patricia sought help.

She took virtual therapy sessions from a real life therapist, right there inside the game. Patricia was able to engage social interactions with other residents in ways she could never do outside this virtual world. By using Second Life as a testing ground for new experiences, she overcame the fear that kept her from living a fulfilling life. In case you were wondering, psychologists charge about $100 a pop for these online sessions. We live in changing times, and it's comforting to know platforms like Second Life exist that can reach people who may never have been able to seek help otherwise.