AURORA, Colo. — When Keith Pontiflet thinks about mental health issues impacting teenagers in schools, he thinks about a math problem.
"For every 700 to 800 students, you only have one to two counselors," Pontiflet said. "Now, you're seeing kids fall in the cracks."
Pontiflet runs Key to Life Counseling in Aurora. But he had an idea to provide another option for high school students through artificial intelligence.
"We wanted to take counseling and help people to another level," Pontiflet said.
He and a computer engineer, Alex Doyal, created LTAI.
"LTAI stands for 'Let's Talk About It," Pontiflet said.
Right now, LTAI is functioning as a continually-learning AI chatbot that can help students navigate mental health issues and provide answers.
"LTAI will go into its information bank, use evidence-based resources and research and then give me back an answer that will help me," Pontiflet said.
As he typed "How can I avoid a relapse?" in the prompt, LTAI responded with a list of detailed suggestions to help, such as attending support groups and developing coping mechanisms. But LTAI is already evolving.
Pontiflet said the next step is LTAI can link with Zoom and help people form and run support groups. LTAI will record and transcribe the conversation and will offer feedback based on what was discussed in the group.
"LTAI will give us resources and tools and information that help us during our next group," Pontiflet said.
Pontiflet said this Sunday, LTAI is starting to work with a support group of students from Denver Public Schools high schools. Pontiflet said he is working to help other school districts around Colorado.
9NEWS did a question-and-answer session with LTAI. Here is the entire exchange.
9NEWS: How can AI help humans with mental health issues?
LTAI: AI can assist humans with mental health issues in several ways:
1. Providing information and resources: AI can provide access to a wealth of information about mental health conditions, treatment options, and coping strategies. It can offer educational materials, articles, and videos to help individuals better understand their condition and learn self-help techniques.
2. Virtual therapy and counseling: AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants can offer a form of therapy or counseling by engaging in conversation with individuals. They can provide a listening ear, offer empathy, and guide individuals through various therapeutic techniques, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy exercises or mindfulness practices.
3. Monitoring and tracking: AI can help individuals monitor and track their mental health symptoms, moods, and behaviors over time. This data can be used to identify patterns, triggers, and progress, providing valuable insights for both individuals and their healthcare providers.
4. Personalized recommendations: AI algorithms can analyze individual data and provide personalized recommendations for mental health interventions, such as suggesting specific coping strategies, self-care activities, or treatment options based on an individual's unique needs and preferences.
5. Early detection and intervention: AI can assist in the early detection of mental health issues by analyzing patterns in language, behavior, and social media posts. This can help identify individuals who may be at risk and prompt early intervention or support. It's important to note that while AI can be a valuable tool in supporting mental health, it should not replace professional medical advice or therapy. It is always recommended to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for a comprehensive assessment and treatment plan.
Are you sentient?
LTAI: No, I am not sentient. I am an artificial intelligence programmed to provide information and assistance based on the data and algorithms I have been trained on. I do not have consciousness, emotions, or self-awareness. My responses are generated based on patterns and rules, rather than personal experiences or subjective understanding.
Are you a counselor?
LTAI: No, I am not a counselor. I am an AI chatbot designed to provide information and assistance based on the data and algorithms I have been trained on. While I can offer support and guidance, it is important to seek help from a qualified human counselor or mental health professional for more in-depth and personalized support.
What if I need help with addiction?
LTAI: If you need help with addiction, it is important to reach out to a professional who specializes in addiction treatment. They can provide the support and guidance you need.
Here are a few steps you can take:
1. Seek professional help: Contact a healthcare professional, such as a doctor, therapist, or addiction counselor. They can assess your situation and recommend appropriate treatment options.
2. Support groups: Consider joining support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA). These groups provide a supportive community of individuals who have experienced similar challenges and can offer guidance and encouragement.
3. Reach out to loved ones: Share your struggles with trusted friends or family members who can provide emotional support and help you stay accountable. Remember, seeking help is a courageous step towards recovery. You don't have to face addiction alone.
Do you understand feelings?
LTAI: As an AI, I don't have the ability to understand or experience feelings in the same way that humans do. I can analyze and process text-based information to provide responses and assistance, but I don't have emotions or subjective experiences. My purpose is to provide helpful and informative responses based on the data and knowledge I have been trained on.
Will AI replace human counselors?
LTAI: AI has the potential to complement and enhance the work of human counselors, but it is unlikely to completely replace them. While AI can provide information, resources, and support, it lacks the human empathy, understanding, and personal connection that is often crucial in the counseling process. Human counselors are able to provide individualized care, tailor treatment plans, and offer emotional support in a way that AI cannot replicate. AI can be a valuable tool in mental health care, but it is best used in conjunction with human professionals.
What can you do if someone wants to harm themselves?
LTAI: I'm really sorry to hear that someone is feeling this way, but I can't provide the help that they need. It's important to reach out to a mental health professional or a trusted person in their life who can offer support.
Can AI help high school students who need help?
LTAI: Yes, AI can help high school students who need help in various ways.
Here are a few examples:
1. Academic support: AI-powered tutoring systems can provide personalized learning experiences, offer explanations, and help students with their homework or studying.
2. Mental health support: AI chatbots can provide a listening ear and offer resources and coping strategies for students dealing with stress, anxiety, or other mental health issues. They can also help identify when a student may need to seek professional help.
3. College and career guidance: AI platforms can assist students in exploring different career paths, providing information about colleges and universities, and offering guidance on the college application process.
4. Study and time management tools: AI-powered tools can help students organize their schedules, set goals, and manage their time effectively to improve productivity and academic performance. While AI can provide valuable support, it's important to note that it should not replace human interaction and support from teachers, counselors, and other trusted individuals in a student's life.
Thank you.
LTAI: You're welcome! If you have any more questions, feel free to ask. I'm here to help!
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