We developed a conceptual model of key components relating to supporting healthy behavior change. The model provides a top-level representation of the clinical (from the psychological perspective) enablers and barriers that can be exploited for developing fine-grained models supporting the realization of behavior change paths within and across specific domains.

The resulting ontology forms the basis for generating user models (Theory of Mind), developing reasoning and decision-making strategies for managing conflicting values and motives, which can be used in collaborative and persuasive dialogues with the user. Such knowledge is also fundamental for embedding empathic behavior as well as non-verbal behaviors which can be embodied by a virtual character in the role of a coach. Learning methods can be applied to explore trajectories of behavior change. The produced ontology represent a valuable resource for the healthcare domain thanks to the knowledge included into the provided resource.