Artificial Intelligence and the Practice of Psychology:
Ethical and Clinical Considerations
Speaker: Rochelle Perper, PhD
4 APA CE Credits
April 11, 2026
8:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Registration 7:15 - 8:00 am
light Breakfast
San Diego Psychological Association
(in the United Way Building)
4699 Murphy Canyon Rd. Suite 105
San Diego, CA 92123
REGISTRATION FEES:
Note Graduate student registration - No CE's are included
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Artificial intelligence (AI) technologies are shaping both our daily lives and the way mental health care is delivered. As psychologists, we are often intrigued by new advancements, yet understandably concerned about client privacy, data security, and ethical use. Additionally, the rapid pace of innovation can make it challenging to evaluate which tools are evidence-based, reliable, or appropriate for clinical practice.
This course provides an accessible and clinically grounded overview of how AI tools are currently being used in mental health care, with particular attention to applications in private practice. Based on findings from an overview of the literature on the current empirically supported AI applications in clinical practice, this training will facilitate discussion about the accuracy and reliability of existing AI tools, as well as their current limitations.
Case studies will be used to illustrate specific risks and potential harms associated with AI use in practice, such as breaches of confidentiality, erosion of clinical judgment, and unintended ethical consequences. These examples will serve as a foundation for thoughtful discussion about how and when AI tools may be used responsibly, and when their use may be contraindicated.
Ethical and safety considerations will be examined throughout the presentation through the lens of APA Ethical Guidelines, with attention to informed consent, competence, risk management, and professional responsibility.
This course emphasizes ethical discernment and critical thinking, supporting psychologists in making informed, values-aligned decisions about if and how AI tools may serve as a supportive adjunct to clinical practice. Designed for practitioners who want to stay informed without feeling overwhelmed, the training offers a balanced, evidence-informed foundation for understanding both the potential benefits and the current limitations of AI in mental health care.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
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List three examples of how AI technology is utilized in mental health care
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Describe two reasons why psychologists should develop a foundational understanding of AI and its applications in clinical practice
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Identify and explain key ethical concerns related to use of AI in clinical practice
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Analyze the potential benefits and risks of AI applications in mental health care
For more information about the conference, contact Diana at sdpa@sdpsych.org
Conflicts of Interest: As an APA-approved sponsor of continuing education, San Diego Psychological Association is committed to the identification and resolution of potential conflicts of interest in the planning, promotion, delivery, and evaluation of continuing education. Please review the conflict of interest guideline below.
APA Guidelines Regarding Potential Conflicts of Interest
Consistent with concepts outlined in the APA Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct, potential conflicts of interest occur when an individual assumes a professional role in the planning, promotion, delivery, or evaluation of continuing education where personal, professional, legal, financial, or other interests could reasonably be expected to impair his or her objectivity, competence, or effectiveness.
CE Grievance Procedure
SDPA is fully committed to conducting all activities in strict conformance with the APAs Ethical Principles of Psychologists. SDPA will comply with all legal and ethical responsibilities to be non-discriminatory in promotional activities, program content and in the treatment of program participants.
See CE Grievance Procedure.
Attendance Policy: CE Credit and Certificates will not be issued to those who arrive later than 10 minutes or leave early from any course scheduled time. This policy is strictly enforced to ensure compliance with APA Guidelines.
Cancellation Policy: No refund will be given to any registered individual who is a no-show to a course. Any individual canceling within 72 hours of a course will be refunded 50% of the course fee.
American Psychological AssociationThe San Diego Psychological Association (SDPA) is approved by the American Psychological Association (APA) to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. SDPA maintains responsibility for this program and its content.
LCSW, LFMT, LEP & LPCC
In California, APA approved CE’s are valid for licensed psychologists, licensed school psychologists, LCSW, LMFT, LEP & LPCC licensees. Though APA is a national organization, the out of state licensee should check with their state governing board to make sure that APA approved CE's are valid in their state for their license.
See SDPA Website Continuing Education Policies.
