Training mental health supporters using virtual patients and automated feedback
Official title: SCH: Training Mental Health Supporters with Virtual Patients and Automated Feedback
Funded at Carnegie-Mellon University · NIH-11134757 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on using smart computer technology to help train mental health providers by creating virtual patients that act like real people with common issues like depression and anxiety, so trainees can practice their counseling skills in a safe space and better support those who need help.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Carnegie-Mellon University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $247,989 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH139114-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11134757 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are mental health support providers, including lay counselors and paraprofessionals, who are looking to enhance their skills in delivering mental health services.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not involved in mental health support or do not require counseling services may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to enhance the training of mental health support providers by utilizing generative AI to create virtual patients that simulate real-life clinical scenarios. The project will develop an automated system that allows trainees to engage with these virtual patients, helping them practice essential counseling skills in a safe environment. By focusing on common mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and ADHD, the training will prepare providers to better serve diverse populations, particularly those facing barriers to mental health care. The ultimate goal is to improve accessibility and outcomes in mental health services.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the quality of mental health care by better preparing providers to address the needs of underserved populations.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using technology for training mental health professionals, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Carnegie-Mellon University
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhu, Haiyi — Carnegie-Mellon University
- Study coordinator: Zhu, Haiyi
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.