Psychologists Warn Against Using AI as a Substitute for Therapy

A growing number of teens are using AI chatbots for emotional support, but mental health experts caution that artificial intelligence is no replacement for genuine human connection. According to a recent report by Common Sense Media, 72% of teens aged 13 to 17 have used an AI companion at least once.

Of those, 18% turn to AI for conversation and social practice, 12% for emotional or mental health support, and 9% view the bots as a friend or best friend. Popular platforms include Character.ai, Nomi, and Replika.

Man in therapy | Source: Pexels

Despite their appeal, psychologists stress that AI lacks the emotional depth and ethical judgment required for meaningful therapeutic interaction. “It’s never going to replace human connection,” said psychologist and researcher Vaile Wright on the “Speaking of Psychology” podcast by the American Psychological Association. “That’s just not what it’s good at.”

Wright highlighted that AI chatbots are primarily designed to maximize user engagement, not to offer sound psychological guidance. “These bots basically tell people exactly what they want to hear,” she explained. “So if you are a person that… is struggling and is typing in potential harmful or unhealthy behaviors and thoughts, these types of chatbots are built to reinforce those harmful thoughts and behaviors.”

University of Kansas psychology professor Omri Gillath echoed this concern, stating AI cannot replicate essential aspects of human relationships, such as providing physical comfort or introducing users to real-world social circles. “Ultimately, a relationship with a chatbot feels ‘fake’ and ‘empty’,” he said.

Woman using a laptop | Source: Pexels

Wright further warned that AI systems may dispense advice without contextual understanding. “An AI chatbot unfortunately knows that some legal drug use makes people feel better,” she noted. “But it doesn’t understand that you don’t give that advice to people in recovery from illegal drug use.”