AI conversation partner for self-reflection
Socratic Dialogue
Look at your thought from different sides
Sometimes a single conclusion starts to shape how we see a whole situation. Open clarifying questions can help you explore the grounds for that conclusion, consider other explanations and put your own understanding into words.
For self-reflection, not for emergencies. AI can make mistakes.
Where the idea came from
Sometimes we notice a thought of ours but treat the conclusion we have drawn as an established fact. The idea of the project is to create a space where that conclusion can be calmly examined through open clarifying questions.
The project is inspired by Socratic dialogue and by the principle of guided discovery used in cognitive behavioural therapy: clarifying what a thought means, looking at its grounds and at other possible explanations. The conversation partner's task is to support the exploration, not to hint at the “right” answer.
Applying these principles in an app does not make it psychotherapy. The effectiveness of this project itself has not yet been studied; AI can make mistakes.
Scientific background
- Beck Institute — Guided Discovery ↗ — exploring the grounds of a thought and alternatives instead of arguing and persuading.
- Padesky, C. A. — Socratic Questioning: Changing Minds or Guiding Discovery? ↗ — Socratic questions as a way to help a person explore on their own.
About the author
Anton Borts
My name is Anton Borts. I am a social worker and spent more than ten years working with people facing addiction. I hold a bachelor’s degree in social work and am completing a master’s degree in psychology.
My projects include LifeMap AI, a visual map of the inner world, addictionhelp.org.il and a YouTube channel about addiction and supporting loved ones.
Other projects
Collaboration
Have an idea for a joint project, publication or using these tools in your work? Write to Anton Borts — let’s discuss possible collaboration.
The Viber app must be installed