Therapy Tech: The Digital Transformation of Mental Healthcare

Therapy Tech examines the state of tech-based mental healthcare and argues that it perpetuates preexisting disparities and relies on the same failed focus on personal responsibility. It features case studies of popular AI "doctors on demand" and how therapists are being conscripted into the gig economy.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 25 October 2021
Publisher: University of Minnesota Press

The proponents of technology are hailing it as the solution to the increasing mental distress that our nation is facing. They are excited about the arrival of various tools, such as algorithms, intelligent chatbots, smartphone applications, telehealth services, and more. However, the question remains: Are these technological fixes truly effective in addressing the mental health challenges we face?

In her book, Therapy Tech, Emma Bedor Hiland delves into the comprehensive transformation of mental healthcare brought about by technology. She reveals that this revolution, while promising, falls short of delivering on its promises. Instead, it perpetuates existing disparities and relies on the same failed focus on personal responsibility that has let us down in the past. Through vivid and in-depth case studies, Therapy Tech uncovers these issues, covering topics such as psychosurveillance on websites like Facebook and 7 Cups of Tea, the shortcomings of popular AI "doctors on demand" like Woebot, Wysa, and Joy, and even how therapists are being conscripted into the gig economy.

This book is a groundbreaking exploration of mental health technologies and the cultural changes they have enabled. It serves as both a sobering dissection of the current state of mental health and a necessary warning of where things are headed. Therapy Tech makes a crucial assertion about how we can best assist those in need of mental health services today.

By examining the impact of technology on mental healthcare, Therapy Tech offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. It encourages us to reevaluate our approach to mental health and to explore new and innovative solutions that can truly make a difference in the lives of individuals who are struggling.

As we navigate the rapidly evolving world of technology, it is essential to be mindful of the potential benefits and risks associated with mental health technologies. We must ensure that these tools are developed and implemented in a way that prioritizes privacy, confidentiality, and the well-being of all users.

Furthermore, we must recognize the importance of collaboration between healthcare professionals, technology companies, and policymakers to create a comprehensive and sustainable mental healthcare system that meets the needs of our diverse population. Only by working together can we hope to address the growing mental distress that confronts us and create a brighter future for all.

In conclusion, Therapy Tech is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of technology and mental health. It provides a comprehensive analysis of the current state of mental healthcare and offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. By embracing technology as a tool for positive change, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and accessible mental healthcare system that serves the needs of individuals across the globe.

Weight: 268g
Dimension: 139 x 215 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781517911171