Artificial intelligence (AI) tools have gained prominence in the world of mental health. Patients use digital platforms to explore feelings, organize ideas and even revisit topics covered in psychotherapy sessions. This growing adherence is one of the main points of a survey recently released by the American Psychological Association.
This trend, which is already capturing the interest of professionals and scholars in the field, indicates that technology is becoming an additional resource to conventional therapeutic methods. Far from replacing the role of the therapist, artificial intelligence serves as support for patients in between appointments.
More on this story: Psychologist lists eight effective techniques for dealing with anxiety in the short and long term
The American Psychological Association study revealed important data about this behavior. Around 33% of psychologists interviewed noted that their patients use AI as an aid during the therapeutic process. Furthermore, 34% of respondents reported that patients use technology on their own, without direct connection with formal psychotherapy.
On the same topic: The evolution of artificial intelligence: developers swap chatbots for physical AI
In everyday life, chatbots are used by many people to verbalize complex emotions, structure questions before sessions or remember important points covered in therapy. On certain occasions, the tool also helps in developing tactics to deal with daily challenges.
However, mental health professionals have issued a crucial warning. Although AI is capable of providing agile responses and encouraging reflection, it does not have the ability to fully understand the depth of human emotions, the particularities of each individual’s life context or the dynamics of the therapeutic relationship developed over time.
The general perspective is that technology can offer significant advantages, as long as it is used with moderation and discretion. Its maximum potential lies in serving as a complementary resource, helping the patient to remain engaged in their journey of self-knowledge during the intervals between appointments.
In contrast, experts warn that relying exclusively on AI systems for answers can result in inaccurate understandings, particularly in scenarios that demand genuine emotional support, in-depth clinical analysis and sensitive choices. Therefore, professionals emphasize that psychotherapy remains an irreplaceable environment for mental health care.