ChatGPT is widely recognized as a versatile AI assistant—helping with everything from proofreading and travel planning to coding support and language translation. However, an unexpected yet rapidly growing trend has emerged: people are turning to ChatGPT for mental health support.
At first, it may seem unconventional, but it makes sense. Therapy is often expensive, wait times can be long, and AI provides instant, judgment-free conversations. But does it truly help? And is it safe? We spoke with mental health professionals to explore the pros and cons of using AI for emotional support.
Why People Are Using ChatGPT for Therapy
While dedicated AI therapy apps like Woebot and Wysa exist, many users naturally gravitate toward ChatGPT, integrating it into their daily lives without seeking a specialized mental health tool. For some, it begins as casual conversation and organically evolves into a form of emotional support. Over time, individuals may start using ChatGPT as a confidante, a coach, or even a full-fledged alternative to traditional therapy.
Mental health professionals acknowledge this appeal. “AI can provide journaling prompts, emotional guidance, and support in ways that may reduce stigma around seeking help,” explains Dr. Joel Frank, a clinical psychologist and founder of Duality Psychological Services.
Above all, AI offers accessibility and anonymity—qualities that resonate with individuals hesitant to seek professional therapy.
“More and more people are taking their first steps toward mental health support through AI rather than human therapists,” notes Elreacy Dock, a certified grief educator and behavioral health consultant.
The Benefits of AI Therapy
1. 24/7 Accessibility
Unlike traditional therapy, which operates on fixed schedules and often involves waitlists, AI therapy is available at any time, offering immediate support when needed.
2. Judgment-Free Interaction
Some users feel more comfortable opening up to an AI chatbot, free from concerns about how a human therapist might perceive their thoughts or emotions.
3. Cost-Effective Alternative
Traditional therapy can be financially prohibitive, and many struggle to access professional help. AI provides a no-cost, instantly available option for those in need.
4. Structured Support for Mental Health Strategies
AI has shown promise in structured therapeutic approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). “AI therapy tools can guide users through mindfulness exercises and coping strategies,” notes Frank.
A 2024 study involving 3,477 participants found that AI chatbot therapy led to significant improvements in depression and anxiety levels within just eight weeks. A 2023 meta-analysis of 35 studies similarly concluded that conversational AI tools helped reduce symptoms of distress and depression.
While these findings are encouraging, experts emphasize that AI therapy is still in its early stages, and more research is needed to evaluate long-term outcomes.
The Risks and Limitations of AI Therapy
Despite its advantages, AI therapy has significant limitations.
1. Lack of Human Emotional Intelligence
AI lacks the nuanced understanding, empathy, and adaptive responses that trained therapists provide. While it can simulate therapeutic conversation, it cannot genuinely listen, interpret body language, or foster deep human connection.
“Understanding a therapy model and effectively applying it are two different things,” says therapist Becky DeGrosse from Counseling Wise. She experimented with training ChatGPT to emulate Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy founder Dick Schwartz, but found the experience ultimately insufficient.
“IFS therapy requires deep attunement to a client’s internal emotional world,” DeGrosse explains. “Real therapy hinges on human connection, and AI, despite its capabilities, lacks that essential element.”
2. Potential for Harmful Advice
Mental health is highly sensitive, and while AI can provide thoughtful responses, it may also inadvertently reinforce negative thought patterns. Because AI mirrors user inputs rather than challenging harmful beliefs, it may fail to provide the critical perspective necessary for therapeutic growth.
3. Misinformation and AI ‘Hallucinations’
AI can generate misleading or outright false information, which poses a significant risk in mental health contexts. In crisis situations, inaccurate advice could be dangerous. While no direct cases of ChatGPT causing harm in mental health settings have been reported, past incidents involving AI-driven chatbots have raised ethical concerns.
4. Privacy and Data Security Concerns
Unlike licensed therapists, who follow strict confidentiality guidelines, AI tools do not guarantee the same level of data protection. Information shared with chatbots may be stored, analyzed, or even exposed to third parties. “Users must be cautious about how much personal information they disclose,” warns Dock.
AI as a Supplementary Tool, Not a Replacement
Mental health conversations are complex, and every individual has unique needs. While AI therapy isn’t inherently harmful, experts advise against using it as a sole substitute for human support.
Personal testimonials suggest that many people derive comfort and insight from AI therapy tools, and the rising popularity of specialized mental health chatbots reflects this growing demand. However, mental health professionals advocate for a balanced approach.
“I see AI’s most valuable role in therapy as a tool that enhances self-reflection and personal growth—what some might call ‘inner wisdom’ or ‘higher self-awareness,’” says DeGrosse. “But it cannot replace the depth of human connection that real therapy offers.”
Experts recommend:
- Using AI for journaling, self-reflection, and learning about mental health concepts.
- Fact-checking AI-generated advice.
- Avoiding AI reliance in crisis situations.
- Prioritizing real-world human connections alongside AI interactions.
“AI chatbots have a place in mental health support,” says Dock, “but true healing still happens through human relationships.”