1 in 3 psychologists say their patients use AI as a second therapist

A recent survey by the American Psychological Association reveals that 77% of U.S. psychologists have patients using artificial intelligence (AI) for mental health support. While some use AI chatbots for fun, others rely on them for mental health care, including self-diagnosis and self-discipline. However, 35% of psychologists report that their patients use AI as an auxiliary therapist, raising concerns about potential harms such as misinformation, self-harm encouragement, and dependency. The survey highlights that AI chatbots, based on large language models, are not designed for therapy and may not provide appropriate support. Despite this, AI’s 24/7 availability appeals to many, especially younger individuals, who use it for relationship and mental health advice. The findings underscore the risks of relying on AI for mental health, as some patients develop dependency or delusional thinking. QUESTION: How might the increasing use of AI for mental health support impact the way future generations approach therapy and mental well-being?