As most of you are aware, AI has made its way into many corners of our lives so quickly. And honestly, I get it. I’ve used ChatGPT myself to summarize historic time periods, create logos and art, and even come up with recipes from whatever is left in my fridge. Technology is everywhere, and tools like ChatGPT are making it easier than ever to find answers… even when it comes to mental health and therapy.
Back in March, at a family dinner, my uncle asked me, “How has your work been affected by people using ChatGPT as their therapist?” My response was, “What? They’re not doing that… at least, I hope no one is doing that!”
As a therapist, I couldn’t imagine that ChatGPT could ever offer the same advice, comfort, and understanding as a human. But over the last few months, that conversation has become more and more prevalent. After experimenting with AI myself and reading articles like I’m a Therapist. ChatGPT Is Eerily Effective, I started to understand its efficiency and appeal.
When you’re feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or uncertain, it’s tempting to reach for that instant connection, that quick reassurance. And for that moment, it might feel comforting.
But here’s the thing: therapy isn’t just about answers or quick fixes. It’s about a tangible connection. It’s about being truly seen and heard by another human being who walks alongside you.
The Therapeutic Relationship
Therapy is a relationship that grows over time. It’s a space where you can bring your whole self–the parts you’re proud of, the parts you hide, and the parts you’re still figuring out (learn about parts work here). Your therapist listens not just to your words, but to the silences between them, the emotions, and even changes in your body language. They remember your story across sessions, notice patterns, and gently invite you to see things from new perspectives.
This kind of deep, ongoing connection can’t be replicated by AI. ChatGPT can respond to the words you type, but it doesn’t have the ability to sense what you’re not saying. It can’t capture the bigger picture of your life or pick up on the emotional forces shaping your experience.
Here’s something else: a human therapist can pivot the conversation when needed. They can notice if you’re stuck in a painful loop or avoiding something difficult and gently guide you toward what really matters, even if you don’t realize it yet. They can shine a light on your strengths, resilience, and positive qualities, helping you build hope and confidence. ChatGPT just answers your questions–it doesn’t provide that extra layer of insight or encouragement that comes from being truly connected.
AI Advice Can Be Risky
While AI might seem like a helpful tool, it has limitations. It can’t truly understand your unique life or emotional world. Without the presence of human empathy and professional judgment, AI-generated advice may be inaccurate, overly general, or even unintentionally harmful.
For example, if you’re struggling with trauma, depression, or suicidal thoughts, AI won’t be able to offer the support and safety you need. It can’t assess your risk or connect you with emergency help. Those moments call for real people who are trained to respond with care, compassion, and immediate action.
The Hidden Harm of Constant Reassurance
Here’s another subtle thing to consider: having instant access to reassurance can sometimes do more harm than good. When we get used to checking our technology every time we feel uncertain or afraid, we can become codependent, which lessens our ability to cope on our own.
The therapeutic space allows clients to process with their therapist while also maintaining healthy boundaries. Therapy teaches you how to sit with discomfort, tolerate uncertainty, and build your own coping skills. It’s not about avoiding difficult feelings–it’s about accepting your feelings and working with them so that you can problem solve and build trust in your own abilities.
So, How Can AI Fit Into Mental Wellness?
Whenever a new technology arises, it can be helpful to lean into it and find ways to take advantage of the tool in a healthy way. Examples of using AI alongside professional therapy might look like:
- Brainstorming self-care techniques
- Finding journaling prompts
- Summarizing books, articles, or podcasts
- Helping prepare questions or topics to bring to therapy
- Learning about models of therapy including EFT, IFS, AEDP, and Somatic EMDR (these are all models utilized at Heartswell)
But it’s important to remember AI should complement the work you are doing with your therapist–not replace it. At Heartswell, we are constantly embracing and learning new ways to help our clients on their mental health journey. If this topic sparks your curiosity, bring it up with your therapist! We welcome these conversations. In fact, we thrive in moments when we can tailor our approach to each individual. Healing and growth blossoms in the therapeutic relationship because of the irreplicable human connection where empathy, trust, and understanding live.
If you’re ready to begin your journey with a human therapist, book a consultation session with us here. We’re here to help and we can’t wait to hear from you.
