University of Surrey collaborates on Innovate UK-funded project to develop AI-powered mental health app
The University of Surrey is collaborating on a project led by Photography-Based Therapeutics Ltd (PBT) to develop an app that uses augmented reality (AR) and artificial intelligence (AI) to help neurodivergent young people better express and explore their emotions.
The project has been backed by Innovate UK following a rigorous selection process, with over 200 entrants and 17 projects chosen nationwide. Surrey will deliver the academic research element of the collaboration.
The Photography-Based Therapeutics (PBT) app will offer the world’s first smartphone experience that empowers users to take charge of their mental health by transforming the familiar act of taking and editing photos into a therapeutic experience.
Using AR tools, users will be able to alter images to reflect their emotional state. For those in environments where photography is not possible, such as hospital wards, the app’s generative AI will allow users to create images from scratch.
The app is being co-designed by neurodivergent young people, with input from mental health clinicians.
The project is a collaboration between Photography-Based Therapeutics Ltd (lead organisation), the University of Surrey, rb&hArts at Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospitals, and AI By Design.
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