Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly common in mental health and wellbeing. AI chatbots and counselling-style apps can offer an immediate space to talk, reflect and access wellbeing exercises. For some people, this may feel helpful and accessible.
However, it is important to understand that an AI tool is not a trained counsellor. While it may sound empathetic and provide sensible-sounding responses, it does not have the professional training, clinical judgement, ethical framework or safeguarding responsibilities of a qualified therapist.
The potential benefits
Accessible and convenient: AI tools are available around the clock and can be accessed privately, without waiting for an appointment.
A starting point for reflection: Some people may find it useful to put their thoughts into words, explore emotions or use journalling and mindfulness prompts.
Practical wellbeing exercises: Depending on the tool, AI may suggest breathing exercises, grounding techniques or other general strategies that can support everyday wellbeing.
However, these potential benefits need to be considered alongside some significant limitations.
The safeguarding concerns
One of the biggest concerns is what happens when someone is experiencing a situation that requires professional assessment and intervention.
A qualified counsellor is trained to recognise concerns such as suicidal thoughts, self-harm, abuse, domestic violence, exploitation, serious mental health difficulties and risks to others. Counsellors also work within professional ethical and safeguarding frameworks and know when concerns may need to be discussed, escalated or referred to another service.
An AI system does not have this professional responsibility or human judgement.
An AI chatbot may misunderstand what someone is saying, miss important warning signs or provide an inappropriate response because it does not fully understand the person's circumstances. Even when an answer sounds compassionate or reassuring, that does not mean the system has accurately assessed the level of risk.
There is also a danger that someone in crisis may develop a false sense that they are receiving counselling when they are actually interacting with a computer system. This could potentially delay contact with a qualified professional or an appropriate emergency or crisis service.
Privacy and confidentiality
Confidentiality is another important consideration. People often share highly personal information with counselling services, including details about relationships, trauma, family circumstances and mental health.
Before using an AI tool, it is worth finding out what information is collected, where it is stored, who may have access to it and how it may be used. Users should avoid assuming that an AI conversation has the same confidentiality protections as a conversation with a qualified counsellor.
AI can sound confident — even when it is wrong
Another risk is that AI can produce responses that sound authoritative while being inaccurate, incomplete or inappropriate for the individual.
A trained counsellor can ask questions, notice changes in tone and behaviour, consider the wider context and use professional judgement. AI cannot replicate that human assessment. It can only generate a response based on the information provided and the way its system has been designed.
So, should you use AI for mental health support?
AI tools may have a useful role as additional wellbeing resources. They might help someone organise their thoughts, find journalling prompts or practise general relaxation techniques.
But they should not be regarded as a substitute for professional counselling, particularly when someone is distressed, vulnerable or at risk.
The most important distinction is simple: AI can generate a response, but it cannot take professional responsibility for your wellbeing.
If you are struggling with something significant, speaking with a qualified counsellor or another appropriate healthcare professional provides something an AI tool cannot: a real human relationship, professional training, ethical accountability and the ability to respond to safeguarding concerns.
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, seek urgent help from the appropriate emergency or crisis service rather than relying on an AI tool.
