Application of Artificial Intelligence in Mental Healthcare: Generative Pre-trained Transformer 3 (GPT-3) and Cognitive Distortions

Deniz Nazarova

Abstract: The product of this research is TeaBot, an AI bot that applied GPT-3 models and uses methods of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help users recognize and challenge distorted thoughts. Considering the limitations of GPT-3 in context understanding, technology was fine-tuned on the self-gathered dataset and all models were tested to find out the most accurate and cost-effective model. Curie model demonstrated the highest performance for the recognition task, and davinci showed the best results in generating a response to users. Additionally, the bot was validated through the 8-week experiment on 68 university students and interviews with practicing psychologists. Research findings revealed that TeaBot is an instrument that can be used for the prevention and intervention of mental disorders with the group assigned to communicate with the bot exhibiting statistically significant differences compared to the control group. The development process also included a manual for the future practice of augmented therapy as well as inform the users who are new to counseling what therapeutic methods were utilized. In conclusion, TeaBot continues to be one of the earliest known bots in Central Asia that applied OpenAI's models and was tested using ethical research methods.