Computer-Simulated Psychotherapy as an Aid in Teaching Clinical Psychology

Abstract

Eliza, a widely known computer program that reacts to the user by simulating the responses of a psychotherapist, can be used as a teaching aid in undergraduate clinical psychology courses. Students' interaction with the program can enhance their understanding of interviewing and psychotherapy, the contrasts between clinical interactions controlled by humans and computers, and the role computers may play in the mental health field. The methods for conducting the exercise, for integrating it into the course syllabus, and for evaluating its impact on students are discussed.