AI is framed as a complementary tool to therapy, not a replacement or threat, offering immediate, actionable support that traditional therapy may not always provide.

Among its benefits, AI can rapidly break down problems, provide direct guidance, and offer timely relief from issues like anxiety spirals or work-related sticking points, especially outside conventional therapy hours.

The article emphasizes meeting clients where they are and recognizing AI as a resource that complements therapy rather than undermining its validity.

Therapists’ reluctance to engage with AI can create distance or shame in sessions if AI remains a taboo topic, hindering open discussion and integration of AI tools in care.

If AI stays a taboo topic, clients may hide their use, which undercuts the therapeutic process and limits potential benefits.

Therapists may struggle to discuss AI with clients if they haven’t used it themselves, risking judgment and further distance in sessions.

A survey of 55 individuals with therapy experience found that nearly half have turned to AI, and prior research shows a large majority of AI users have had human therapy, with about three-quarters rating AI as equal to or better than human therapy in certain aspects.

Reference: Rousmaniere, Zhang, Li, & Shah (2025) on patterns of AI use as mental health resources in the United States.

Overall, AI is being used by a sizable share of people with therapy experience for mental health support, and many users report it as helpful.