Understanding Artificial Intelligence in Behavioral Health: Plenary Presentation Takeaways

By Sandra Jones, Founder of OakTree Practice Management

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History of AI
It has been the last few years that most people have become aware of the term Artificial Intelligence or “AI”. As in most technology, the evolution of AI has a history of development. The first indications of humans attempting to create human-like devices is attributed to the Ancient Greeks' use of mechanics to emulate human movement independently. The 1950’s-1980’s found innovators like Alan Turing (Turing Test) and John Searle (Chinese Room Argument) developing concepts to assist in defining AI. Progression of AI included items from IBM, Roomba (iRobot) and finally ChatGPT (2022).
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AI General Benefits and Disadvantages
Any new innovations typically present a number of advantages and disadvantages. AI is no different. Society has realized significant advantages since the mainstream use of AI. Advantages include automating repetitive tasks, solving complex problems, improving customer experiences, advancing healthcare, and reducing human error. One of the most important disadvantages of AI is the impact of bias and discrimination that exists in the AI models. Other disadvantages include job displacement, privacy concerns and ethical concerns.

AI in Behavioral Health
AI is transforming the landscape of behavioral health by enhancing accessibility, personalizing treatment, and improving outcomes. Through data analysis and machine learning, AI can identify patterns in patient behavior, leading to early intervention and tailored therapeutic approaches. Predictive analytics can be crucial when evaluating relapse, suicide or violent behaviors Additionally, AI-driven tools can monitor mental health trends in real-time, helping practitioners make informed decisions and adjust treatment plans dynamically. As these technologies evolve, they hold the potential to revolutionize how providers foster a more proactive and responsive approach to behavioral health care.

AI in Action
Generative AI has had an immediate impact on day-to-day activities for behavioral health providers. By using assessment and screening data, bio-psycho-social narrative reports can be created in seconds. In addition, DAP/SOAP notes, treatment plans and discharge summaries utilize key data to create individualized documentation. Finally predictive analytic tools provide crucial analysis for behavioral health providers to indicate suicidality and relapse potential.

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