IBM SkillsBuild - Building AI-Powered Avatar Chatbots for Mental Health Support

Project Objective The objective of this project is to design, build, and validate a functional prototype of an AI-powered avatar chatbot tailored to address specific mental health challenges. This includes developing autonomous modules that support therapeutic interventions such as Behavioral Activation, anxiety management, and more. About AVAtalk AVAtalk is a mental health technology initiative focused on delivering AVATAR therapy, a new and evidence-based approach that has shown significant effectiveness in treating psychosis and some minor evidence in other mental health conditions. Our platform enables users to create personalized avatars with custom voices. We are now enhancing this platform by integrating intelligent, autonomous AI modules capable of simulating therapeutic conversations and guiding users through mental health programs. Your Role in the Project You will help design and develop AI avatar chatbots trained for specific mental health applications. You will collaborate with a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy expert (our Chief Scientific Officer) who will provide clinical guidance and ensure therapeutic accuracy for each module. As well, you will collaborate with our Chief Technology Officer to ensure technical alignment. Scope of Work You will focus on developing AI avatar chatbot modules that: Deliver structured interventions/protocols like Behavioral Activation and more. Provide support for anxiety and mood-related concerns Use natural language understanding to simulate helpful, human-like interactions Integrate seamlessly with the existing avatar and voice platform Expected Outcomes By the end of the project, you will be able to: Define natural language processing (NLP) Explain how AI uses NLP to derive meaning from text Understand how chatbots reason, learn, and interact with users Distinguish between intents, entities, and dialogs Explain classification problems and their common AI solutions Identify appropriate use cases for chatbots and NLP Recognize real-world applications of computer vision and AI in healthcare Recommended Learning Resource: IBM SkillsBuild course:  Run AI Models with IBM Watson Studio

Operational Planning and System Implementation for AVAtalk Technologies

AVAtalk Technologies Inc., a health tech company, is seeking to enhance its operational efficiency by developing a comprehensive operational plan and adopting a streamlined day-to-day system for its operations. The project aims to provide learners with the opportunity to apply project management principles to real-world scenarios, focusing on the healthcare technology sector. The learners will analyze the current operational processes, identify areas for improvement, and develop a strategic plan that aligns with the company's goals. Additionally, they will research and recommend a suitable system for daily operations that enhances productivity and supports the company's growth. This project will allow learners to apply their classroom knowledge in project management, strategic planning, and operational systems, while gaining insights into the health tech industry.