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In my view, the foundation for discussions about the use of artificial intelligence in therapy and mental health care is not technological capability, but fundamental ethical questions. In light of reports that popular chatbots may fail to recognize suicidal signals, and given the growing number of U.S. states introducing restrictions on AI in mental health care, we face a crucial dilemma: how can we harness the potential of technology without exposing people to underestimated risks? This is only one of many ethical concerns. Let us not forget about digital stigmatization or social isolation driven by the deepening human dependence on technology.
Can AI in therapy actually work? What does the scientific evidence show?
Scientific evidence increasingly suggests that AI-supported mental health interventions can reduce symptoms of depression and stress. A meta-analysis by Li and colleagues, involving 17,000 patients, showed a statistically significant reduction in depression (Hedges’ g = 0.64) and stress (g = 0.7). The number of scientific studies providing justification for blending therapeutic approaches with technology is growing rapidly.
Why is AI in mental health care growing?
The growing use of AI in mental health care is closely linked to a fundamental problem: too many people need support, while access to traditional care remains limited. Paradoxically, it is precisely this crisis of access to traditional care that drives the development of digital healthcare solutions. Hundreds of millions of people worldwide struggle with mental disorders, yet only a fraction of them have access to professional help when it is truly needed.
How fast is the AI mental health market growing?
The AI mental health market is growing rapidly, driven in large part by the demand for more accessible mental health support. The value of the AI mental health sector is expected to grow from $1.7 billion in 2025 to a projected $9.1 billion by 2033 (CAGR 23.3%). It is worth stressing that this growth does not stem from speculative venture capital activity, but rather from addressing a genuine social need. To add to this point, 43% of professionals already use AI tools, mainly to support diagnostics and documentation.
Conclusion
AI and other forms of technology can play an important role in addressing the social and health challenges created, or intensified, by technology itself. In the years ahead, it will or indeed must be employed more widely as a complementary element, enhancing the capacity of mental health professionals. The utilitarian dimension of this statement is dictated by the drastic increase in human needs in this domain. Personally, I direct my research interests toward the concept of the digital phenotype and its application in detecting and preventing mental health issues, and in my work, I place strong emphasis on solving problems rather than creating new ones.
Sources:
- https://hai.stanford.edu/news/exploring-the-dangers-of-ai-in-mental-health-care
- https://www.psychiatrist.com/news/illinois-outlaws-ai-in-therapy-sessions/
- https://www.nature.com/articles/s41746-023-00979-5
- https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/ai-mental-health-market-report
- https://www.apaservices.org/practice/news/artificial-intelligence-psychologists-work
FAQ
Is AI allowed in therapy sessions in the United States?
AI therapy is regulated differently across the United States. Some states restrict AI from independently providing therapy, while others focus on disclosure, human oversight, or specific uses of AI in mental health care. The regulatory landscape is evolving as policymakers address the risks of AI-based therapy.
Can artificial intelligence be a therapist, or only support one?
AI cannot replace a therapist on its own. It works best as a complement to professional care, extending what a human therapist can do, not replacing the therapeutic relationship itself.
Are AI chatbots safe to use for mental health support?
Not reliably on their own. Studies have found popular chatbots can miss warning signs like suicidal ideation, which is part of why Illinois banned their use in therapy sessions. Digital stigmatization and deepening social isolation are two further risks worth weighing before relying on conversational AI for support.
What are the risks of relying on AI for mental health support?
The main risks include missing critical signals such as suicidal ideation, digital stigmatization, and growing social isolation. These ethical concerns of AI in healthcare become particularly important when technology starts to replace, rather than complement, human support.
Does AI actually help with depression and stress?
Yes, but the evidence points to AI as a complementary tool rather than a replacement for professional care. Its value may lie in making mental health support more accessible and available between interactions with a therapist, while the quality and safety of the intervention remain critical.
How are mental health professionals using AI today?
Mental health professionals already use AI tools, mainly to support diagnostics and documentation. More broadly, the use of AI in healthcare should be understood as a way to extend professional capacity, rather than replace human expertise and the therapeutic relationship.
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