Finding a Place for AI in Therapy and Product Development
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the way clinicians deliver care, and digital intervention platforms like Cognishine are leading the way. But when human connection and empathy are at the heart of therapy, how do we integrate AI in therapy responsibly, while maintaining clinical quality and trust?
In a recent episode of the De Facto Leaders podcast, Dr. Karen Dudek-Brannan interviewed Natalie Yona, VP of Clinical Strategy at Cognishine, to explore how AI tools for therapy can enhance outcomes for clinicians, educators, and clients without replacing the human element that makes therapy effective.
AI as a Support Tool for Clinicians
AI technology is best used as a support system for therapists, not as a substitute for clinical expertise. As Natalie explains, AI can:
- Streamline administrative tasks – freeing up time for clinicians to focus on client care.
- Enhance parent and caregiver engagement – by providing accessible, culturally relevant materials for at-home practice.
- Deliver evidence-based therapy resources – such as reading passages and cognitive rehabilitation activities tailored to specific goals.
This approach helps therapy platforms integrate AI in product development responsibly, supporting clinicians rather than replacing them.
Quality, Clinical Integrity, and Product Development
For any therapy product development process, clinical integrity is key. At Cognishine, AI-powered features go through rigorous quality assurance to ensure alignment with therapeutic best practices and evidence-based standards.
An example discussed in the podcast was the “book desert” challenge. Many clients lack access to high-quality, culturally adapted reading materials. AI can help address this gap by creating therapy materials that are accessible, engaging, and tailored to client needs, all under the oversight of clinical experts.
Ethics and Human Connection in Teletherapy
As teletherapy solutions grow in popularity, so do concerns about over-reliance on technology. Natalie emphasizes that AI in digital therapy platforms must always maintain the human connection central to care.
By keeping clinicians in control and using AI as a tool to support therapeutic decision-making, digital platforms can enhance both in-person and remote therapy sessions, ensuring better outcomes without compromising empathy or ethics.
Listen to the Full Podcast Episode
Hear the full conversation about AI in therapy and digital intervention platforms:
