Autorentext

Dr. Seneka Gainer is an Assistant Professor and Clinical Director in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Jacksonville University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), and National Certified Counselor (NCC). With nearly 20 years of experience in clinical practice, supervision, and counselor education, her work centers on counselor development, empathy, and ethical leadership. She serves as Clinical Strategist at Inner Peak AI, where she helps design clinically informed, developmentally appropriate mental health tools. Dr. Gainer co-leads the NBCC AI Regulatory Research Team and presents nationally on the ethical integration of artificial intelligence in counselor education. She has authored and co-authored publications on trauma-informed practice and counselor development. A past Governing Council member of ACA and former NECA president, Dr. Gainer’s teaching, research, and scholarship explores empathy as a teachable practice, systems-informed counselor education, and the ethical use of emerging technologies in counselor training.

Klappentext

Written by counselors, for counselors, this groundbreaking resource redefines what it means to offer care in a tech-driven world. Whether a practitioner curious about AI, a supervisor navigating new ethical terrain, or an educator preparing future counselors, this bold and accessible guide provides insights, understandings, and tools for the AI novice to the seasoned professional. It features practical tools, real-life case studies, and ethical guidance, empowering counselors and helping professionals to integrate AI into their practice while maintaining the deep empathy and identity in their work. It is not merely a guide on how to bring new technology into your caring practice, but how to infuse care into your technology use.

Inhalt

Chapter 1: Introduction

An overview of the book’s purpose, the rise of AI in mental health, and how counselors can confidently navigate this technological shift.

Chapter 2: Understanding AI and Machine Learning

Foundational concepts demystified: what AI is, how it works, and what counselors really need to know.

Chapter 3: AI Tools for Counselors

A practical guide to assessment tools, virtual therapeutic assistants, and administrative supports.

Chapter 4: Integrating AI into Clinical Practice

Using the BRIDGE framework to ethically and effectively incorporate AI into sessions, supervision, and psychoeducation.

Chapter 5: Ethical Considerations

Examining confidentiality, bias, data security, and professional boundaries when using AI in mental health.

Chapter 6: Client-Centered Counseling with AI

How to preserve empathy, cultural humility, and personalized care in a tech-augmented counseling process.

Chapter 7: Advancing the Counseling Profession Through Training, Technology, and Lifelong Learning

AI’s role in professional development, counselor education, supervision, and staying future-ready.

Chapter 8: The Future of AI in Counseling—Trends & Transformations

Exploring emerging tools, shifting roles, and how AI may shape the profession long-term.

Chapter 9: Using AI in Practice: Language, Roles, and Reflection

Practical applications, new clinical language, co-creation with AI, and reflection on counselor identity.

Chapter 10: From Concept to Practice: Bringing AI Into Your Counseling Work

Bridging vision with action: strategies for applying what you've learned and embracing change.