by Mark D. Lerner, Ph.D.
Creator, AI-Integrated Emotional Wellness
AI-Integrated Emotional Wellness (AIEW) focuses on the broad interface of artificial intelligence (AI)—essentially how machines think like people—and human emotion. As a consultant specializing in emotional wellness, I work closely with artificial intelligence (AI) professionals, helping them to understand and navigate the complex world of human emotion—our feelings.
Pause for a moment and try to define what a feeling is. Is it a subjective response to stimuli? Or is it a sensation? While engaged in therapy with clients, I often described feelings as "the stuff that's hardest to talk about." Today, as an international emotional wellness consultant, that definition would not instill confidence in my clients. Therefore, I characterize feelings—human emotions—as complex, multifaceted components that greatly influence our decision-making, actions, and overall well-being.
Having invested almost four decades consulting and presenting with organizations such as the United Nations Department of Safety & Security, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and numerous public and private entities, I've learned more than I've taught. One significant revelation has been the realization that emotional wellness stems from a deep awareness and acceptance of our feelings—and the ability to effectively navigate challenges and change. This realization resonates universally across cultural boundaries, making it relevant not only personally but also professionally with diverse industries.
While I've engaged in the professional practice of clinical and forensic psychology for decades, AIEW consulting is different—and profoundly exciting. It does not involve evaluating, diagnosing, treating, or preventing mental disorders. Therefore, it's outside the scope of the professional practice of psychology. This enables me to provide practical information and support to many people worldwide.
As an AIEW consultant, I work in confidence with AI leaders and the AI workforce. These consultations enhance emotional well-being by exploring innovative ways AI can integrate human emotions rather than subverting them. Focusing on cognitions—our thoughts and how they impact our feelings—can shape our actions and overall well-being (Kumar, 2020).
Engaging, interactive presentations are a key component of AIEW consulting. By delivering informative, thought-provoking presentations with AI leaders and the AI workforce, I showcase the potential benefits of AI in enhancing emotional well-being while acknowledging limitations and challenges—such as ethical considerations.
AIEW offers virtually endless potential for integrating AI with human emotion. By leveraging the cognitive abilities of AI while understanding authentic human engagement, we have the potential to create an incredible fusion of technology and human emotion that fosters emotional wellness.
To learn more about AIEW consultation, please contact the National Center.