AI in Advanced Clinical and Counseling Education

published: 2025/09/24
contact: UNO Division of Innovative and Learning-Centric Initiatives (ILCI)
email: innovate@unomaha.edu

Illustration of a smiling woman holding a red book and a glowing red lightbulb, symbolizing a new idea. Text reads: 'AI in Advanced Clinical and Counseling Education' with emphasis on 'Advanced Clinical' and 'Counseling Education' in bold red.

Artificial intelligence is transforming the fields of healthcare and counseling by providing tools to enhance critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and clinical reasoning. At the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO), several projects are integrating AI into advanced education for future healthcare providers and counselors. Here, we explore three initiatives shaping the future of clinical and counseling education.

Using Generative AI to Simulate Clinical Problems

Project Lead: Christopher Burcal

In the Athletic Training Program, Christopher Burcal is using AI to generate realistic clinical scenarios for students. These scenarios are used in comprehensive exams and practicum courses to develop critical thinking and clinical reasoning skills. By offering diverse and immersive case studies, this project ensures that students are well-prepared for the challenges of independent healthcare practice.

AI for Ethical Decision-Making in Counseling Education

Project Lead: Thang Tran

Graduate counseling students in COUN 8430 are using AI as an expert consultant to analyze complex ethical dilemmas. The project emphasizes the integration of cultural humility, professional standards, and ethical guidelines into case conceptualization. By evaluating AI-generated insights critically, students enhance their clinical reasoning and prepare for real-world counseling scenarios.

Leveraging AI in Healthcare and Neuroscience Education

Project Lead: Suzanne Sollars

Suzanne Sollars is incorporating AI to improve instructional efficiency and enhance student engagement. AI tools assist with grading, content revision, and assignment development. These initiatives expose students to cutting-edge technology, preparing them for the integration of AI in healthcare and neuroscience research.

Transforming Clinical Education with AI

By integrating AI into clinical and counseling education, UNO is equipping students with the tools they need to excel in complex and dynamic fields. These projects demonstrate how technology can foster ethical, innovative, and effective approaches to healthcare and counseling.

About the University of Nebraska at Omaha

Located in one of America’s best cities to live, work and learn, the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) is Nebraska’s premier metropolitan university. With more than 15,000 students enrolled in 200-plus programs of study, UNO is recognized nationally for its online education, graduate education, military friendliness and community engagement efforts. Founded in 1908, UNO has served learners of all backgrounds for more than 100 years and is dedicated to another century of excellence both in the classroom and in the community.