AI Chatbots in Therapy: Helpful Tool or Human Replacement?
by Cali Shimkovitz, MEd, RP(Q)
It’s no secret that artificial intelligence (AI) has made its way into almost every corner of our lives. Individuals across the world are using it to learn, connect with friends, and now – more than ever – to support their mental health.
For children, teens, and young adults, AI chatbots like ChatGPT, Alongside, and Woebot are often being used to vent about stress, learn coping strategies, and get a quick dose of encouragement when life feels overwhelming. But this raises an important question: Are AI chatbots the future of therapy? Or, more importantly, should they be?
The answer, like most things in mental health, isn’t black and white.
The Role of AI Chatbots in Mental Health
AI chatbots are designed to simulate conversation, offer emotional support, and even teach coping skills like mindfulness and reframing negative thoughts. For many – particularly younger generations who are already comfortable turning to their phones for answers and connection -- these apps can feel like a safe space to share worries without fear of being judged.
There’s a real reason for their appeal. AI chatbots are:
Available 24/7. Whether it’s 2am or between classes, kids can open the app and “talk.”
Stigma-free. There’s no fear of being misunderstood, criticized, or judged.
Budget-friendly. Most are free or low cost, making them accessible for those with financial barriers.
Helpful for skill-building. Many chatbots are programmed to guide users through evidence-based exercises like mindfulness, reframing negative thoughts, and tracking mood patterns
For students in particular, as highlighted in a recent EdSurge article, these tools can feel like a pressure valve in moments of academic and social stress.
What AI Chatbots Can’t Do
As supportive as these tools can feel, they’re not a replacement for human care – and it’s important we don’t treat them that way.
They can’t feel empathy. AI doesn’t truly understand emotion the way a person does, nor can it “feel alongside you” the way a therapist can
They’re limited in nuance. A chatbot won’t pick up on subtle cues or the bigger context in a child’s life. AI is improving, but it still struggles to fully understand cultural, social, or personal contexts that shape a person’s mental health. It won’t pick up on subtle cues or the broader context in a child’s life.
They aren’t equipped for crises. In moments of acute distress or risk of harm, human support and intervention is essential.
In other words, it is important to think of chatbots like a helpful “mental health companion,” not a therapist.
Why Human Connection Matters More Than Ever
At its core, therapy is about more than just advice or coping strategies – it’s about connection. Research consistently shows that the relationship between a client and their therapist is one of the most powerful ingredients for healing and growth, and the most important predictor of positive change. A trusted (human) therapist can:
Offer real empathy and validation.
Understand your unique needs, strengths, and challenges.
Create a safe space to explore emotions without filters.
Tailor their approach to each individual’s history, identity, and goals.
No app or AI can replicate the power of feeling seen and supported by another human being. Especially for young people navigating complex life transitions, this kind of relational support is truly irreplaceable.
What Parents Should Know About AI Chatbots
If your child is curious about or already using AI mental health tools, here’s how you can support them:
Stay curious, not critical. These tools can feel comforting to teens. Ask them what they like about it and how it helps.
Talk about limits. Remind them that AI isn’t a therapist and can’t replace human connection or support in tough times.
Pair with real support. If your child is struggling, an AI chatbot can complement therapy but isn’t a stand-alone solution.
Watch for warning signs. If they’re relying solely on an app and avoiding real conversations about their feelings, that could be a sign they need more support.
So, Are AI Chatbots the Future of Therapy?
AI chatbots won’t replace therapy, but they can be a helpful part of the mental health ecosystem. For many young people, they’re a gentle first step into building self-awareness and coping tools.
However, the heart of healing still lives in human connection. In a world of constant notifications and screen time, the ability to sit with a warm, compassionate therapist – someone who truly listens and understands – has never been more important.