Using voice-based AI to improve crisis counseling services.
Official title: Voice-based AI to scale evaluation of crisis counseling in 988 rollout
Funded at Lyssn.io, INC. · NIH-10983779 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how using voice technology can help make crisis counseling through the 988 hotline even better, so people in tough situations can get the support they need more effectively.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Lyssn.io, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | November 15, 2023 |
| Project end | October 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $840,309 |
| NIH project number | 5R44MH133517-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10983779 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who utilize crisis counseling services, particularly those reaching out through the 988 hotline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not engage with crisis counseling services or those outside the scope of the 988 hotline may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of voice-based artificial intelligence to enhance the evaluation of crisis counseling services provided through the 988 hotline. By analyzing voice interactions, the project aims to identify key factors that contribute to effective crisis intervention. The methodology involves collecting and analyzing voice data from counseling sessions to develop insights that can improve service delivery and outcomes for individuals in crisis. Patients may benefit from more effective and responsive crisis counseling as a result of this innovative approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved crisis counseling services that better meet the needs of individuals in distress.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of AI in mental health services is an emerging field, there is growing evidence that similar approaches can enhance service delivery and patient outcomes.
Where this research is happening
-
Lyssn.io, INC.
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Atkins, David Charles — Lyssn.io, INC.
- Study coordinator: Atkins, David Charles
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Improving the quality of cognitive behavioral therapy using AI feedback
This study is testing a new AI tool that listens to therapy sessions to help therapists improve their skills, making cognitive behavioral therapy even better for people in community mental health settings.
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.