In a world where technology can feel like a lifeline, many are turning to AI for emotional support. It’s easy to see why: immediate answers, no waiting lists, a feeling of privacy.
But the truth is, when it comes to healing deep wounds, navigating trauma, or seeking meaningful, lasting growth, chatbots, apps, and wellness platforms come with serious limitations.
How AI Is Being Used for Therapy
AI isn’t just hypothetical in therapy circles. It’s already making its way into many people’s lives, sometimes in surprisingly helpful ways and other times in risky ways. Nearly 50% of people surveyed in a recent U.S. study had tried using AI or chatbots at least once for emotional support. Others use LLMs and AI chatbots to aid in self-diagnosis.
A Stanford University study examined several popular therapy chatbots (like “Pi,” “Noni,” and others) and found that, while users often gain comfort, many chatbots also carried stigma toward certain mental health conditions (e.g. schizophrenia or substance use disorders) and failed to respond safely when users expressed suicidal ideation.
So while AI is making inroads in mental health support, how it’s used and by who, is crucial for safety.
Why These Uses Can Be Problematic
Even when used with good intention, AI tools can pale in comparison to a true therapist. They aren’t designed for crisis intervention and haven’t undergone the same rigorous training therapists have to recognize when someone is in danger.
While chatbots can feel nearly human, they don’t necessarily have the same accurate understanding and responsiveness to nuanced emotion. AI can misinterpret or oversimplify deep emotional distress, trauma triggers, or complex mental health disorders and give questionable recommendations.
Real healing often involves deep relational trust built over time. Therapists have spent years developing the skills to challenge clients compassionately and perceive subtle cues in responses that can go undetected by LLMs or AI chatbots.
Healing Isn’t Always Convenient, But It’s Worth It
AI tools may offer moments of comfort, especially when you need something fast. But deep healing, especially from trauma, often requires the nuanced, human connection, safety, and skills that only a trained therapist can offer.
If you’re seeking a healing journey where you’re seen and heard, reach out for a free consultation.
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Marsh Psychotherapy offers a comprehensive range of therapeutic services, each designed to address the specific needs and challenges of our clients, including children aged 4-18, adults of all ages, the LGBTQ+ community, and couples. Our services are offered online throughout New York.
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We provide online therapy for New York residents. We accept many commercial plans, including NYCE PPO. We do not accept Medicaid or Medicare. Some plans may be out-of-network and/or have high deductibles and may cost $160 per session.