Digital Mental Health Coaching: Developing an LLM-Based Chatbot Application
摘要
This chapter presents the development, theoretical background, and application of “ephoria,” a chatbot-based mental health coaching app using a solution-focused approach. Initial research results on the effect of the app will also be presented. The app’s main objectives are to provide easy access to psychological support, reduce the risk of developing mental health issues and lower future healthcare costs, and explore the potential of AI in counseling and coaching from a scientific perspective. Powered by large language models and adaptive systems, the chatbot blends scripted and dynamic interactions. Users access tools like breathing exercises, gratitude journals, and mood tracking through an automatic needs detection system. While ephoria promotes well-being and self-reflection, it is not a replacement for psychotherapy and does not diagnose or treat mental illnesses. Instead, it follows a coaching-based approach aimed at fostering well-being, self-reflection, and problem-solving, but it does not diagnose or treat mental health conditions. This distinction ensures that users receive the right kind of guidance and are aware of the limitations of AI-driven interventions.