AI, Algorithms and Therapy
Someone asked me today if I fear my work as a therapist will be taken over by AI or a robot.
No. There's no fear.
I am going to share some reasons:
Algorithms will never and can never replace authentic human connection.
AI will never replace and can never replace authentic response.
Social science can be reliable and valid to inform evidence-based practices. Yet it isn’t A to B. People are different and that’s what makes them wonderful. I see therapy as poetry, an art, an experience. It was never meant to be placed in a box with a pretty bow.
AI and Algorithms can be utilized to fill in gaps such as wait times, educational information. I have educated myself more and a lot of individuals working in the fields don’t want to replace anyone. They’re adding to and filling in gaps. Access is such a wide concern because people cannot get into therapy. They are desiring therapy, yet the availability is limited. So if there are programs or AI structures that can help people access information before they can see someone? It’d be difficult to not support a gesture that is in place to help patients and clients. It can also help combat system issues.
Also? my job does not control my emotions nor it is the center of my world. Therefore:
I’d find another job or career that fits the purpose of helping others. We can spend our time hyperfocusing on what we don’t have and the issues, or we can spend that same amount of time organizing, planning and finding solutions. Whether I agree with someone or not, there would still need to be changes made with a changing world. I don’t fear change. At least not for too long! Still human, I do fear it a little. I sit with it, not submerge.
Change is a crucial part of the world evolving and healing. It is a crucial part of the future generations and what’s to come way after we pass away. What I have learned in my own healing journey in therapy, spiritual work, self-reflection, and self-evolution? They all have taught me an important set of lessons:
Fear is an emotion I experience and it does not run my life.
Things happen in my life they don’t just happen to me.
I am capable.
You are capable.
Changes are coming.
I don’t know what is to come with Technology and Therapy or behavioral health as a whole. I do see changes approaching with technology intertwining into our work. Sometimes it is to increase productivity or finances. Sometimes it’s to reduce practitioner stress so they can be more present and provide better care, therefore improving outcomes with patients. And sometimes: it’s JUST for client benefits. As with anything, there is a balance. The best way is to continue to be aware and educate yourself. Whether you are a client or a practitioner. Look at the CEOs, boards, or people involved with the program being sold or presented. No need to be wary, just aware. Fear has ran our lives for way too long.
Education is powerful, and time is even more of a teacher.
Healing is an ongoing will to live and only one choice away.
Embrace change. It’s coming whether we like it or not.
As always? Evolve and heal on, my friends.
Anne
Writer; Anne C. Totero, LMFT
All Rights Reserved to Anne C. Totero, LLC
www.annectotero.com
