A recent study by Cedars-Sinai investigators suggests that artificial intelligence (AI) can be an effective tool for mental health therapy, providing bias-free counseling to patients. Two studies found that virtual therapists programmed with AI can deliver positive feedback and support to individuals struggling with alcohol addiction, as well as anxiety and depression.
The first study published in the Journal of Medical Extended Reality used a VR application to provide 30-minute counseling sessions to 20 patients with alcohol-associated cirrhosis. The virtual therapists were trained using AI to conduct motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and other techniques. The results showed that over 85% of patients found the sessions beneficial, and 90% expressed interest in using virtual therapists again.
The second study published in Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking used a similar approach, presenting virtual therapists with simulated conversations based on different sociodemographic profiles. Despite these differences, the tone analytics score showed no significant difference between the virtual therapist’s tone and the patient’s profile or lack thereof.
These findings highlight the potential of AI-powered therapy to provide equitable and personalized care. Cedars-Sinai researchers emphasize the need for thoughtful design in developing such technologies to avoid perpetuating human biases in healthcare delivery.
Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-01-ai-therapists-bias-free-patients.html