Artificial intelligence (A.I.) has exploded into the public consciousness, implying convulsive change in many diverse fields - and the field of behavioral health services is no exception. In multiple ways, A.I. is impacting one of the key instruments of behavioral health treatment: the clinician’s session notes.

Before we dive into a discussion of session notes, however, let’s briefly define the substantive turf. “Behavioral health” and “mental health” are sometimes viewed as synonymous, but at Garnet River we align with the consensus conclusion: that behavioral health is the broader category, encompassing mental health and mental illnesses (such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder) within its ambit, while also addressing various problematic behaviors (such as substance abuse, gambling addiction, and eating disorders).

In recent decades, society has become increasingly cognizant of the importance of addressing this broader all-inclusive array of “behavioral health” issues. Cultivating excellent mental health in general, and positive behavioral characteristics as well, are important considerations not only for individuals in their personal lives, but also in the workplace for employers and employees.

And the latest development in behavioral health is indisputable: artificial intelligence is enhancing outcomes for patients, providers, and employers – and particularly is this so when A.I. is applied to session notes. Both in the creation of such notes and in their utilization, A.I. is streamlining rote tasks and elevating analytical inquiries.