In January, School of Health and Behavioral Sciences Associate Director and Professor of Psychology Joseph Trunzo, Ph.D., became president of the Rhode Island Psychological Association; his primary role is to ensure that psychologists and clinical services throughout the state are well prepared to serve people in need. Below, Trunzo, who is also a practicing clinical psychologist, shares his insights into what’s happening in the field today and what the future could bring.

1. Technology is enhancing access: “We're currently seeing a tremendous need for broadening access to services. New technology, such as telehealth, has enhanced access. Prior to the pandemic, there were many questions as to how effective providing services that way could be. Post-pandemic, we've found that the model works for certain populations, but not all. We're also seeing a proliferation of self-help apps that companies and individual practitioners have designed to help people — either in conjunction with a behavioral health service or on their own.”

2. AI’s role in psych should be limited: “I've read articles that say artificial intelligence will replace psychologists, but I doubt that will happen, because so much of the success of good behavioral health services lies in the nature of the relationship between the client and practitioner. Realistically, we need more real human interactions, not less; too much interaction with technology is possibly fueling some of the increased rates of depression and anxiety we see.”

3. We need to act on the clinical psychologist deficit: “We’re in need of more behavioral health providers and clinical psychologists, which Bryant’s new doctoral program in clinical psychology (Psy.D.) will help to address. The program has two concentrations: one in child and adolescent psychology to help increase the number of providers who can provide services to children and youth, and a second in health psychology to focus on the treatment and prevention for behavioral health and medical illnesses. Our first cohort will be on campus in fall of 2025.”