Reimagining the Counseling Profession: Preparing Counselors for AI and Digital Health Integration.

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Bibliographic Details
Title:	Reimagining the Counseling Profession: Preparing Counselors for AI and Digital Health Integration.
Authors:	Sheperis, Carl¹, Annan-Coultas, Dusti², Rush, Caronne³
Source:	Journal of Counselor Preparation & Supervision. 2025, Vol. 19 Issue 3, p1-25. 25p.
Subject Terms:	Artificial intelligence, Education of counselors, Outcome-based education, Counseling, Digital health, Patient-professional relations, Ethics, Telemedicine
Abstract:	Digital health technologies including artificial intelligence (AI) are transforming mental healthcare delivery, creating new opportunities and challenges for counseling practice. This article examines digital health applications in counseling, including telehealth, mobile apps, digital therapeutics, virtual reality, and AI-powered tools. We explore key implications for practice, including enhanced accessibility, impacts on therapeutic relationships, and ethical considerations. The article presents a six-domain competency framework covering privacy and security, technical proficiency, ethical literacy, clinical integration, therapeutic adaptability, and administrative management. A case study illustrates the practical application of hybrid digital care, while a discussion of counselor education highlights the need for curriculum updates. Future directions and recommendations for research, practice, and policy are provided to ensure ethical integration of these technologies. This foundational work supports subsequent articles in this special issue, which focus specifically on AI applications in counseling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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Database:	Education Research Complete

Description
Abstract:	Digital health technologies including artificial intelligence (AI) are transforming mental healthcare delivery, creating new opportunities and challenges for counseling practice. This article examines digital health applications in counseling, including telehealth, mobile apps, digital therapeutics, virtual reality, and AI-powered tools. We explore key implications for practice, including enhanced accessibility, impacts on therapeutic relationships, and ethical considerations. The article presents a six-domain competency framework covering privacy and security, technical proficiency, ethical literacy, clinical integration, therapeutic adaptability, and administrative management. A case study illustrates the practical application of hybrid digital care, while a discussion of counselor education highlights the need for curriculum updates. Future directions and recommendations for research, practice, and policy are provided to ensure ethical integration of these technologies. This foundational work supports subsequent articles in this special issue, which focus specifically on AI applications in counseling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
ISSN:	21643288