Intersections Between Artificial Intelligence & Therapy? Ethical Concerns & Potential Opportunities

Interactive "chatbots" like ChatGPT (https://chat.openai.com/chat) are not new technology, but recent advances have made them more refined and accessible to the general public. These interactive "assistants" are increasingly capable of helping with sophisticated administrative tasks, providing and organizing access to educational materials, and mimicking conversational skills. In this presentation, I will explain and demonstrate some of the features of ChatGPT that could relate to our jobs as MFTs. Together, we will explore uses for AI features and identify potential ethical issues.

Learning Objectives

1. Participants will learn what ChatGPT and similar artificial intelligence (AI) "chatbots" are and how they work.
2. Participants will explore potential uses for AI in support of providing therapy.
3. Participants will consider the ethical issues in utilizing AI support for therapeutic benefit.

Dr. Heather Hessel (she/her) is an Assistant Professor in the Counseling, Rehabilitation, and Human Services department at UW-Stout. Her research interests include the young adult life stage, extended family relationships, and the role of technology in family relationships. She maintains a small online clinical practice as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in MN and WI and an AAMFT Approved Supervisor. Dr. Hessel's clinical interests include parent-child relationships, mindfulness, and Buddhist Psychology.