Developing an Online Mindset • [Podcast for Student Counsellors]

AI in Therapy – Comparing Ethical Frameworks

In Episode 332 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly guide you through this week’s three topics:

Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at developing an online mindset to effectively work with clients online.
Then, in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Richard Miller, a counsellor, supervisor, and AI ethicist, about the ethical use of AI in therapy, its possibilities, challenges, and implications.
Lastly, in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss comparing ethical frameworks and why it’s an important exercise in counselling training.

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Developing an Online Mindset [starts at 03:19 mins]

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In this section, Rory and Ken discuss the concept of developing an online mindset in therapy. This mindset is essential for counsellors who want to effectively provide online therapy to their clients.

The key points discussed include:

What is an Online Mindset?
- An online mindset is understanding that online therapy is as valid as face-to-face therapy, and it requires the same attention to ethical standards, client care, and professionalism.
- The pandemic of 2020 shifted online therapy from a niche practice to a mainstream method of working with clients.
- Counsellors must be familiar with the technology they use, including video software, microphones, internet speed, and webcam settings.
The Importance of Technology in Online Therapy
- Understanding how technology works ensures a seamless therapeutic experience for clients. This includes having appropriate equipment, such as a stable internet connection, clear audio, and good lighting.
- Testing your setup with a peer is an essential step to ensuring everything runs smoothly during online sessions.
Professionalism in Online Therapy
- Just as much care is needed in setting up an online practice as a physical office. This includes considering the lighting, background, and sound quality to ensure clients feel comfortable and supported.
Building an Online Therapeutic Space
- Just like a physical therapy room, an online therapy space should be set up in a way that allows clients to feel safe, comfortable, and confidential. It is the responsibility of the therapist to ensure that their environment supports these qualities.
- It’s important to consider factors such as lighting, background, and sound.

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AI in Therapy [starts at 29:49 mins]

In Practice Matters, Rory interviews Richard Miller about the ethical use of AI in therapy. They explore the possibilities and challenges AI presents for the counselling profession.

The key points of this conversation include:

The Growing Role of AI in Therapy
- Richard discusses the ethical implications of using AI tools in therapeutic settings. Examples include AI chatbots used for communication with clients or AI programs that help with documentation.
- AI technology is widely used in everyday life, such as recommendation algorithms on streaming platforms like Netflix and social media. However, its application in therapy raises concerns about confidentiality, informed consent, and the accuracy of AI-generated content.
Informed Consent and Confidentiality
- When AI is used in therapy, it’s important to obtain informed consent from clients about how their data is used, stored, and shared. Therapists must be transparent about the tools they use, particularly AI-driven ones, to maintain client trust.
Risks and Challenges of Using AI
- AI may influence decisions or therapy outcomes, but it cannot replace human judgement or emotional intelligence in therapeutic practice.
- Richard discusses the ethical responsibility of counsellors to understand and critically assess the AI tools they use and how these tools may affect their practice and client care.

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Comparing Ethical Frameworks [starts at 59:25 mins]

In Student Services, Rory and Ken discuss the importance of comparing ethical frameworks during counsellor training.

The key points discussed include:

Why Compare Ethical Frameworks?
- The exercise of comparing different ethical frameworks encourages students to understand the ethical guidelines that govern various professions, including counselling, social work, and healthcare.
- Counsellors often work in multidisciplinary settings, where they may need to adhere to frameworks beyond their own ethical code, making this exercise a crucial part of their training.
Understanding Multidisciplinary Work
- In environments such as rehabilitation centres, counsellors may need to navigate other professionals’ ethical guidelines (e.g. breaking confidentiality for the safety of clients).
- Students are encouraged to understand that ethical guidelines are not universal and may vary depending on the work environment and client needs.
Practical Implications
- Comparing frameworks helps students recognise when their counselling framework aligns with or differs from other professional guidelines. This knowledge can help you navigate ethical challenges in multidisciplinary environments.

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