What happens when AI can write a psychological report in under two minutes — and licensed psychologists take hours? In this episode of Beyond the Couch: AI in Psychology, Dr. Ernest Wayde talks with Dr. Adam Lockwood about the disruptive role of AI in psychological report writing.

They explore how AI compares to human-written reports, where clinicians see value and risks, and what this means for the future of psychology.

Key Takeaways:

• AI-generated reports can match human quality in many areas — and sometimes surpass them in recommendations.
• Clinicians still prefer human summaries, but effect size differences were often small.
• Automation bias and loss of clinical skills remain real risks if AI is used uncritically.
• Bias in AI output reflects societal inequities, making vigilance essential.
• Responsible adoption requires safeguards like HIPAA-compliant agreements and human oversight.

For more of Dr. Lockwood’s insights and commentary on emerging AI research in psychology, visit his blog at LockwoodConsulting.net

In this conversation, Dr. Ernest Wayde and Dr. Lindsay Childress Beatty explore the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and psychology, focusing on the ethical implications, the importance of competence, and the evolving role of psychologists in the development and application of AI technologies.

They discuss the need for ethical guidelines, the challenges posed by rapid advancements in AI, and the necessity of integrating cultural competency into AI design. The conversation emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and ethical frameworks in preparing future psychologists for a landscape increasingly influenced by AI.

Takeaways include:

• AI is a growing field in psychology that requires ethical considerations.

• The integration of AI in psychology must prioritize human involvement.

• Competence in understanding AI tools is essential for psychologists.

• Psychologists should be involved in AI design to address ethical issues.

• Education must adapt to teach future psychologists about AI.

In this episode, Dr. Ernest Wayde and Dr. Dylan Ross discuss the integration of AI in psychology and clinical practice. They explore how AI is transforming treatment planning, the role of AI scribes in reducing clinician workload, and the future of AI in mental health.

Dr. Ross emphasizes the importance of psychologists in the development of AI tools to ensure quality and safety in mental health care. The conversation also highlights the need for clinicians to engage with technology and find communities that support their professional growth in this evolving landscape.

Takeaways include:

• Treatment planning is evolving with AI integration.

• AI scribes can significantly reduce documentation time.

• AI tools can enhance clinician efficiency and focus on care.

• The future of psychology will involve more technology integration.

• Psychologists must be involved in AI tool development.

• AI won't replace clinicians but will augment their roles.