Workshop 4: Social Robots in Mental Health Care
Organizer
Malene Flensborg Damholdt, Aarhus University
Malene Flensborg Damholdt, PhD., MSc. is an associate professor at the Department of Psychology and at the Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University. Her research mainly focuses on human-technology interaction, the effects of individual differences on human-robot interactions, interdisciplinary methodology and development of new research methods in robotics. In essence, she seeks to answer how we develop technology in a value-driven fashion, how we can better communicate through and about technology, and what technology does to us. Currently, much of her research is on communication with robots and on psychological interventions via internet-based solutions.
Abstract
Recent trends indicate a rising prevalence of mental health issues globally which has catalyzed the growth of technology-delivered interventions, including internet-delivered psychotherapies and AI-driven conversational agents. While these interventions offer accessible solutions, they often lack the personalized, flexible approach of direct patient-therapist interactions, potentially affecting treatment adherence. This panel explores the potential of AI-enabled robots in psychotherapy from four perspectives: i) the feasibility of establishing a therapeutic alliance, ii) integration into stepped and blended care, iii) their use in training psychotherapists, and iv) the attitude of mental health professionals toward such system.
Speaker
Arthur Bran Herbener, Aarhus University
Arthur Bran Herbener (MSc Psychology) is a PhD student in psychology at the Department of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, Aarhus University. His research mainly focuses on exploring how, to whom, and under which circumstances psychotherapy delivered by conversational agents is effective. Arthur is also interested in the adoption of conversational agents as relational partners, including its antecedents and implications.
The role of human therapists' ontological and sociocultural status and implications for social robotics in psychotherapy
Human therapists may not be entirely replaceable by inanimate beings – not necessarily because of what human therapists do, but because of what they are. Indeed, there seems to be more than the literal meanings conveyed through spoken words that account for the effectiveness of psychotherapy. In this presentation, I examine the role of human therapists’ ontological status as human beings and sociocultural status as socially sanctioned and legitimate providers of mental health care. I argue that this role carries crucial implications for the potential of robotic therapists and raises questions about whether such interventions should be classified as psychotherapy or something else.
Speaker
Malene Flensborg Damholdt, Aarhus University
Malene Flensborg Damholdt, PhD., MSc. is an associate professor at the Department of Psychology and at the Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University. Her research mainly focuses on human-technology interaction, the effects of individual differences on human-robot interactions, interdisciplinary methodology and development of new research methods in robotics. In essence, she seeks to answer how we develop technology in a value-driven fashion, how we can better communicate through and about technology, and what technology does to us. Currently, much of her research is on communication with robots and on psychological interventions via internet-based solutions.
Setting the Stage: Merits and Drawbacks of AI-Powered Social Robots in Blended and Stepped Mental Health Models
Several researchers have advocated for utilizing AI and social robots in stepped or blended care approaches rather than as a replacement for human involvement in mental health treatment. This presentation delves into essential considerations and precautions necessary when incorporating AI-enhanced social robots in such therapeutic strategies. It aims to navigate the complexities and potential benefits of this approach, highlighting the importance of calibrating expectations and contingency plans, maintaining human responsibility and oversight in mental health care while leveraging technological advancements to enhance treatment outcomes and accessibility.
Speaker
Peter Fazekas, Aarhus University, Denmark
Peter Fazekas, PhD, MA, MSc, is an associate professor at the Department of Philosophy and History of Ideas and at the Research Unit for Robophilosophy and Integrative Social Robotics at Aarhus University. He is a cognitive scientist and an engineering physicist interested in how human mental capacities are brought about by specific brain processes and whether they could also be implemented in artificial systems. Currently his research focuses on how psychological characteristics could be simulated.
How to use AI and social robots to empower mental health providers
There is an increased interest in the transformative effects of using AI and social robots in a mental health context. The existing literature mainly focuses on client-facing applications like delivering interventions, mediating interviews and serving as diagnostic tools. This talk investigates how AI and social robots could be used to empower practitioners by facilitating the skill acquisition of mental health providers-in-training.
Speaker
Mate Szondy, Pazmany Peter Catholic University, Hungary
Maté Szondi is a clinical psychologist, family therapist, mindfulness teacher, researcher. He teaches as an associate professor at Pázmány Péter Catholic University (Budapest, Hungary) and works as a psychologist at the Jewish Charity Hospital (Budapest, Hungary). His areas of interest include positive psychology (well-being, optimism, mindfulness), the effectiveness of "third wave" cognitive-behavioral therapies, and the impact of technological advancements on mental health. Currently, his main research topic is “positive technology”: how technology (e.g., AI, VR, social robots) can support human flourishing.
AI in the therapy office: factors influencing mental health professionals' attitudes toward Artificial Intelligence
The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in mental healthcare presents significant opportunities and challenges. Despite the prevalence of mental health disorders and the barriers to effective care, such as the shortage of professionals and stigma, AI has the potential to enhance the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of these conditions. This study explores the attitudes of mental health professionals towards AI, identifying factors that influence their perceptions and acceptance of AI technologies. Key findings indicate that while there is optimism about AI's role in documentation and synthesis of information, concerns persist regarding AI's ability to replace human interaction. Negative perceptions, lack of understanding, and the opaque nature of AI (black-box AI) contribute to reluctance in adoption. Trust in AI, perceived usefulness, and the level of AI knowledge significantly impact professionals' willingness to utilize these technologies. Ethical and privacy concerns, accountability, and the cultural and organizational environment also play crucial roles in shaping attitudes. The study underscores the importance of educational initiatives and continuous training to improve AI literacy and competence among mental health practitioners. Addressing ethical concerns, enhancing transparency, and fostering a supportive organizational culture are essential for the successful integration of AI in mental healthcare. By positioning AI as a supportive tool rather than a replacement for human judgment, the potential benefits of AI can be realized, leading to improved patient outcomes and efficiency in mental healthcare delivery.