Our Blog: Upward Alabama

AI and Mental Health Support: Navigating Promise and Pitfalls in the Age of Digital Care

By Susan Rathmell, Ph.D., ABPP

AI Evidence-Based Psychotherapy Telehealth, Virtual, Psychotherapy

Treatment

Posted: May 4, 2026

Imagine this: A college student named Maya is struggling with anxiety before finals. It’s 2 a.m., and her therapist’s office is closed. She opens her phone and starts chatting with an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered app that walks her through a breathing exercise and offers words of encouragement. Across town, her psychologist, Dr. Lee, uses AI to transcribe session notes and flag potential risk factors in client language, freeing up time to focus on the therapeutic relationship. These snapshots capture the dual reality of AI in mental health—its capacity to support both clients and clinicians, and the questions it raises about safety, effectiveness, and clinical judgment.

Integrating Medication Tapering into Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I)

By Courtney Worley, Ph.D., ABPP, DBSM, M.P.H.

Insomnia Evidence-Based Psychotherapy Sleep

Posted: February 7, 2026

For many patients, prescription sleep aids—such as benzodiazepines, Z-drugs, or other sedative-hypnotics—are the first line of defense against insomnia. While these medications can provide short-term relief, long-term reliance can lead to dependence, tolerance, or diminished effectiveness. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is widely recognized as the gold standard for treating chronic insomnia, and research increasingly supports the integration of a structured medication taper with CBT-I for sustainable results. This comprehensive overview explores the rationale, strategies, and benefits of combining medication tapering with CBT-I, culminating in a practical case example and an invitation to partner with Upward Behavioral Health for expert support in your insomnia recovery journey.

Understanding Sleep Deprivation: Conditions, Prevalence, and Treatment

By Susan Rathmell, Ph.D.

Sleep Insomnia Nightmares Evidence-Based Psychotherapy

Posted: March 11, 2025

Despite his best intentions to get a good night's rest, "Charlie" frequently ends up sacrificing sleep, convinced that one more episode on his favorite streaming service or another scroll through social media won't hurt. The fatigue begins to creep in, manifesting as irritability, difficulty concentrating, and an overwhelming sense of heaviness during the day. Yet, Charlie brushes off these symptoms, attributing them to the hustle of life and the need to balance work and family. Little does he know that this cycle of sleep deprivation could lead to more serious health issues over time.

What is Measurement-Based Care and why it it important?

By Susan Rathmell

Measurement Based Care Evidence-Based Psychotherapy

Posted: August 23, 2024

Measurement-based care is intended as an approach that ensures repeated, accurate assessment of progress (or lack thereof) in treatment. The use of MBC is one of the core values in Upward’s approach to treatment.