AI integration in therapy: Clinicians and patients increasingly turn to chatbots for mental health support

A clinical psychologist reports that patients are using AI chatbots for therapy, prompting a reevaluation of human therapeutic approaches.

• Psychologist Sarah Darghouth described patients bringing AI-generated advice into sessions, including one patient who ended a relationship after ChatGPT suggested it.
• Darghouth stated that she has warned patients about AI risks including worsened anxiety, false information, increased isolation, and potential delusional beliefs.
• Darghouth acknowledged using ChatGPT herself to cope with her child's tantrum, saying it provided calm and supportive coaching.
• Darghouth noted that less than 7% of people with mental health conditions globally receive effective treatment, making free AI therapy a factor clinicians must address.