In an age where artificial intelligence is making its way into nearly every aspect of our lives, the question of whether AI can replace human therapists is no longer hypothetical—it’s being tested in real time. Apps now offer mood tracking, CBT exercises, and even chatbot therapy sessions. But while these tools offer accessibility and anonymity, they also raise valid concerns about empathy, safety, and effectiveness.
This article explores the evolving role of AI in mental health care what it does well, where it falls short, and why, despite all its power, it still can’t fully replace a human therapist.
The Rise of AI in Mental Health Support
Over the past five years, AI-driven mental health tools have gained significant traction. From chatbots like Woebot and Wysa, to AI-based journaling tools, meditation apps, and mood trackers, the digital mental health space is booming. According to the Organisation for the Review of Care and Health Apps (ORCHA), more than 10,000 mental health apps now exist globally, with many relying on AI to personalise support and responses.
While some people use these tools to supplement their therapy, others rely on them as standalone support—especially when therapy is too expensive, unavailable, or intimidating.
Dr. Becky Spelman, psychologist and clinical director, explains:
“AI-based tools are creating new levels of accessibility in mental health. For someone who isn’t ready to speak to a therapist or can’t afford weekly sessions, these platforms can be a stepping stone. But they’re just that—a stepping stone. They’re not a replacement for a trained mental health professional.”
What AI Does Well
1. 24/7 Access and Convenience
Unlike traditional therapy, AI tools are available any time of day or night. This can be incredibly valuable for people who experience anxiety spikes at unusual hours or need immediate emotional regulation strategies.
2. Non-Judgemental Environment
Some users feel more comfortable “opening up” to a chatbot, especially in the early stages of seeking help. There’s no fear of judgment, and no social pressure, which can help break down barriers to care.
3. Scalability and Low Cost
With the global shortage of mental health professionals, AI helps to scale support by providing guided journaling, mood tracking, and CBT-based interventions. These tools are often free or low cost, compared to private therapy.
4. Personalised Suggestions Using Algorithms
AI tools can track usage patterns and personalise recommendations over time. For example, if you regularly log low mood in the evening, the app may suggest breathing exercises or sleep hygiene routines during that time slot.
What AI Can’t Do (Yet)
Despite these benefits, AI tools have limitations—many of which are particularly significant in a therapeutic context.
1. Lack of Human Empathy
No matter how advanced an algorithm is, it cannot replicate the nuance and emotional understanding of a human therapist.
“Therapy is about human connection,” says Dr. Spelman. “It’s the relationship between therapist and client that often leads to insight and change. AI can offer tools—but not connection, compassion, or the therapeutic alliance that’s central to healing.”
2. Poor Risk Management for Serious Mental Health Conditions
AI platforms are not yet reliable for people experiencing severe mental health issues. In cases involving trauma, self-harm, psychosis, or suicidal ideation, immediate professional input is required.
Although some platforms provide crisis lines or suggest emergency services, this is no substitute for a trained clinician who can assess and manage risk dynamically.
3. Data Privacy and Ethical Concerns
AI tools often collect sensitive data. Without strong privacy protections, there’s a risk this data could be misused or sold. While regulations like GDPR offer some protection, many users remain unaware of how their data is being handled.
4. Generic Responses That Miss the Mark
Even the most sophisticated AI tools can occasionally deliver canned or inappropriate responses. For example, a chatbot might suggest mindfulness for someone experiencing intense trauma, which could feel invalidating or even harmful.
When AI Works Best
AI is most useful as part of a blended care model, where it supports but does not replace human-led therapy. Some examples:
- Between sessions: Apps can reinforce therapy goals through journaling prompts, breathing exercises, or mood tracking.
- Waiting list support: For people waiting to access therapy, AI tools can provide some structure and coping strategies in the interim.
- Ongoing wellbeing maintenance: After therapy ends, digital tools can help maintain mental health routines.
Dr. Spelman highlights:
“When used wisely, these tools can enhance the therapy process. They’re great for reminding clients to practise skills we’ve worked on in session. But the work—the deep emotional processing—still happens in that therapeutic relationship.”
Case Study: CBT Chatbots
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) lends itself well to digitisation because it’s structured and goal-oriented. Apps like Woebot and Wysa use CBT principles to help users challenge negative thoughts, regulate emotions, and develop new coping strategies.
While users often report improved awareness and short-term relief, studies have shown that the outcomes are generally modest, especially compared to in-person CBT delivered by a trained therapist (Fitzpatrick et al., 2017).
These apps can serve as a good introduction to therapy principles or as a supportive tool—but they are rarely sufficient as standalone treatments for moderate to severe issues.
The Risk of Misinformation and Over-Reliance
AI’s rapid evolution raises another key concern: people may begin to rely too heavily on AI for support without recognising its limits. Misinformation—such as unverified claims, oversimplified advice, or advice that lacks cultural nuance—can potentially cause harm.
There’s also a risk that individuals with more complex needs will delay seeking professional help because they’ve been lulled into a false sense of support from an app.
Dr. Spelman adds:
“Mental health apps often do a good job with surface-level support. But if someone is dealing with unresolved trauma, identity issues, or complex relational dynamics, they need human support—someone who can hold space for discomfort, challenge gently, and work through resistance. That’s not something an algorithm can do.”
What the Research Says
A 2022 review published in JMIR Mental Health found that while AI apps show promise in reducing mild symptoms of anxiety and depression, they are most effective when used as adjuncts to therapy—not as replacements.
Similarly, the World Health Organization has highlighted both the potential and the limitations of digital mental health tools. Their guidelines urge caution when deploying AI for anything beyond basic psychoeducation or wellbeing promotion.
Should You Use an AI Therapy App?
If you’re curious about using an AI tool for your mental health, consider the following:
| Question | If Yes | If No |
|---|---|---|
| Are you experiencing mild stress, anxiety, or low mood? | An app could be a helpful support tool. | Speak to a clinician first. |
| Do you have access to a therapist or support group? | Use the app as a supplement. | Avoid using it as your only form of care. |
| Do you understand that the app is not a substitute for therapy? | Proceed with realistic expectations. | Educate yourself on the limits of AI tools. |
| Are you concerned about data privacy? | Choose platforms with transparent privacy policies. | Avoid apps that don’t clearly state how your data is used. |
A Balanced Approach: How to Combine AI with Human Therapy
Here’s a basic framework for integrating digital tools into a safe mental health plan:
- Use apps to track patterns—e.g., sleep, anxiety spikes, and moods.
- Share app data with your therapist to inform sessions.
- Use AI prompts for journaling or cognitive reframing between sessions.
- Maintain human connection through therapy, support groups, or community.
- Avoid relying on apps alone for crisis support or complex trauma work.
Final Thoughts
AI is transforming the mental health landscape in exciting ways. It offers immediate access, low-cost support, and engaging tools that can empower individuals to take charge of their wellbeing. But it’s not a therapist. It can’t hold space for grief, offer authentic empathy, or help you understand your childhood wounds.
As Dr. Becky Spelman notes:
“Technology will continue to evolve, and there’s a lot of good that can come from AI in mental health. But no matter how smart it gets, AI can’t offer you presence. That’s something only a human being can do.”
