More than three-quarters of psychologists report their patients are discussing artificial intelligence in therapy, using the technology to seek additional support with their mental health, find a diagnosis, or for friendship and intimate relationships, according to a survey by the American Psychological Association.
The Chatbots and Mental Health Survey, conducted by APA among more than 1,200 licensed psychologists in the U.S., found that many patients appear to be supplementing their relationship with a mental health professional with advice from AI. Nearly 2 in 5 psychologists (39%) have had conversations with patients who used AI to self-diagnose, while about a third of psychologists said their patients are turning to AI for help with self-discipline, affirmations or behavioral reminders (34%), to assist with their treatment (33%) and to act as an additional mental health professional (35%).
This may not reflect the full scope of people turning to chatbots for mental health advice or companionship, as the survey only captures psychologists' interactions with their patients. Many more people may be using AI chatbots for mental health advice without critical guidance from a mental health professional.
