Artificial Intelligence in the Mental Health Field
Nearly half of individuals who could benefit from mental health services aren’t able to access them. Whether due to lack of financial resources, systemic barriers, logistics, stigma, misconceptions, time constraints, and other limitations, many people may turn to AI (artificial intelligence) chatbots as a confidant in place of therapy. Nevertheless, a plethora of these tools can lead to dangerous risks and dire consequences.
AI VS Human-Led Therapy
Human therapists often exhibit certain qualities that illustrate unconditional positive regard for the humanity, autonomy, and rights of all people. For example, ethical guidelines for therapeutic work require mental health counselors to treat each client equally regardless of background or demographic, demonstrate consistent empathy, destigmatize mental health conditions, and even display the ability to challenge client thinking when appropriate in a compassionate, curious, and non-judgemental way. However, research with AI therapy chatbots reveals that these tools often show stigma toward certain mental health conditions, which can not only be harmful to the wellbeing of individuals who utilize the tools but also discourage these individuals from seeking appropriate mental health care altogether. In addition, generative AI can negatively impact cognitive function and attachment patterns, mirroring addiction. Unlike mental health care facilitated by licensed professionals, AI chatbots have no ethical guidelines or regulations and, therefore, no consequences when things go awry.
Experiments conducted with AI therapy chatbots also expose that artificial intelligence is unable to identify and reframe patterns around human behavior and thought patterns, pick up on cues signalling safety issues like suicide risk or vulnerability to abuse, and cultivate true connection by working with concepts like transference. So much of the therapeutic alliance relies on using the practitioner and client relationship itself as a tool for processing, expressing, and – ultimately – healing. Therapy isn’t always necessarily about solving all clinical problems but also about providing a safe space where clients feel seen, heard, and connected – all of which require a human touch.
Future of AI in Therapy
While there are a plethora of ethical debates around the use of artificial intelligence in general, there are some areas in which advanced technology could be of use to the mental health field. For example, logistical tasks such as billing insurance could be further streamlined in order to allow for more time and energy to be poured into client-centered work. In addition, counseling students could potentially practice with a mock client before taking on the substantial responsibility of serving real-life clients with real-world problems and prospective safety concerns.
If you or someone you know has faced challenges to receiving mental health care and has been tempted to turn to an AI chatbot tool in place of an authentic therapeutic relationship, consider reaching out to Embrace Therapy today for more information and resources to receive the person-centered support you need.
