Can AI Be Your Therapist?
Exploring the Benefits and Limitations of Using Artificial Intelligence for Mental Health Support.
By Dr. Gregory Lyons, PsyD, LCPC.
7/19/2025.
As artificial intelligence becomes more sophisticated, many are turning to AI for mental health support — whether through journaling apps, chatbot companions, or symptom analysis tools. But can AI truly replace a human therapist, or reliably identify behavioral diagnoses?
Let’s explore the potential advantages and limitations of using AI for therapeutic insight.
✅ Pros: Where AI Can Help
24/7 Availability: AI tools are always “on,” offering immediate interaction regardless of time or day. For individuals who may be isolated, in crisis, or between sessions, this can be comforting.
Language & Accessibility: AI can often adapt to the user’s native language and communication style, which may make mental health tools more inclusive — especially in regions where culturally competent therapists are scarce.
Pattern Recognition: With consistent data input (like mood logs, behavior journals, or trigger reports), AI may be able to detect trends over time — such as cyclical mood changes or repeated stressors — that might otherwise be missed.
Privacy & Anonymity: Some users may find it easier to disclose feelings or sensitive issues to a non-judgmental system. This may be able to serve as a first step before seeking human support.
Self-reflection Prompts: AI-based apps may be able to offer structured questions and reframes that encourage users to consider their thoughts and behaviors more carefully.
⚠️ Cons: Where AI Falls Short.
Lack of Human Nuance: Therapists don’t just listen — they interpret. A skilled professional integrates experience, intuition, body language, and history to guide therapeutic insight. AI may lack this depth.
Self-Reporting Bias: AI relies on what the user tells it. If a person omits details (consciously or not), misrepresents their behavior, or lacks awareness of certain patterns, the AI may draw conclusions based on incomplete or skewed data.
No Clinical Judgment or Empathy: AI cannot ethically diagnose or assess mental health conditions. It may simulate conversation, but it cannot provide true empathy or respond to complex emotional nuance the way a trained clinician can.
Absence of Crisis Response: Unlike a human therapist, AI cannot proactively urge a safety plan, evaluate imminent risk, or take necessary action if someone expresses the intent to harm themselves or others. This makes it inappropriate as a standalone support system in crisis situations.
Inability to Refer to Local Support: AI tools generally lack the ability to identify and connect users with credible mental health organizations or community resources tailored to their geographic area. A therapist, in contrast, can offer personalized referrals and advocate for follow-up care.
Overreliance Risk: Some users may place too much trust in AI tools, substituting them for real mental health support. This can delay needed care or exacerbate existing issues.
Ethical and Legal Ambiguity: Who’s responsible if an AI gives harmful suggestions or misses warning signs? These questions remain unresolved in most legal and clinical contexts.
How AI Can Support Mental Wellness: A Tool, Not a Therapist.
While AI should never replace human connection in therapy, it can be a powerful tool for reflection — especially when structured around journaling, mood tracking, or daily check-ins. AI can support — but not substitute — mental health care. Use AI as a companion for journaling, reflection, and emotional tracking — and always turn to real people when it matters most.