Artificial Intelligence Literacy in Counselor Education: The Developmental AI Literacy Framework

Authors

Leo Gonzalez Jr., St. John's UniversityFollow

Author ORCID Identifier

https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1350-0234

Author Biography

Leo Gonzalez Jr., PhD, LMHC-D, is an Assistant Professor of Counselor Education at St. John’s University, School of Education. His research focuses on artificial intelligence in counselor preparation and supervision, AI literacy development, and emerging technologies in clinical training.

Document Type

Article

Keywords

artificial intelligence, artificial intelligence literacy, counselor education, developmental framework, professional identity

Subject Area

Counselor Education

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming counselor education, yet frameworks for preparing counselors-in-training (CITs) to use AI remain limited. This article introduces the developmental AI literacy framework (DALF), a conceptual model integrating developmental theory, professional identity formation, and AI literacy. The DALF reframes AI literacy as a developmental competency comprising intentional AI use, critical evaluation, ethical engagement, and awareness of professional identity. The framework outlines three stages, including foundational awareness, reflective application, and integrated professionalization, that parallel CITs’ growth from dependence to autonomy. Pedagogical, developmental, and research implications are provided to guide ethical and reflective AI integration in counselor education.

Public Significance Statement

This article introduces a developmental framework that explains how counselors-in-training build AI literacy as they advance through their training. By outlining clear stages of growth, from basic awareness to professional integration, this framework can help counselor education programs design developmentally appropriate curricula, supervision practices, and training experiences that support ethical, reflective, and confident use of AI in counseling practice.

Recommended Citation

Gonzalez Jr., L. (2026). Artificial intelligence literacy in counselor education: The developmental AI literacy framework. Journal of Counselor Preparation and Supervision, 20(1), 1-12.