Are chatbots the future clinical psychologists?

Authors

  • Arthur Bran Herbener
  • Malene Flensborg Damholdt

Keywords:

conversational agents, chatbots, artificial intelligence, psychotherapy, mental health

Abstract

In recent years, there has been a huge upsurge in research on psychotherapy delivered by conversational agents, such as chatbots, social robots, and virtual avatars, which raises several questions: are conversational agents a replacement or a tool for clinical psychologists? How should professionals approach conversational agents? This paper aims to help professionals form informed opinions concerning the proliferation of conversational agents in psychotherapy. We identify and evaluate key potential and limitations of delivering psychotherapy via conversational agents. We highlight the accessibilityof conversational agents as a core strength that addresses weaknesses in the dominant treatment model in Western countries. Furthermore, we discuss whether conversational agents can replace the interpersonal bond between therapist and client. Finally, we introduce recommendations for professionals in the field of mental health. 

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Published

2024-06-11

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Arthur Bran Herbener, & Malene Flensborg Damholdt. (2024). Are chatbots the future clinical psychologists?. Psyke & Logos, 45(1), 67–83. Retrieved from https://tidsskrift.dk/psyke/article/view/146546

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Vol. 45 No. 1 (2024): Digital lives

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