Can AI Replace Your Therapist? A Human Take on ChatGPT and Mental Health
Can AI Replace Your Therapist? A Human Take on ChatGPT and Mental Health
A few months ago, I gave in and subscribed to the paid version of ChatGPT. On walks with my dog, I started asking it all kinds of questions—how to improve my routines, how to navigate certain work dilemmas, how to handle personal things I was stewing over. And I have to admit… the responses floored me. They were thoughtful, articulate, and often wise. I half-joked to myself, “Well, that’s it. I’m out of a job. Who even needs a therapist anymore?”
What I Learned Talking to ChatGPT About My Life
At first, I found the tone comforting—soft, nurturing, the kind of support many people seek in mental health conversations. But eventually, I got curious. I asked it to be more rational, more blunt, less emotionally attuned. It complied, but the responses felt cold and mechanical. Still helpful—but not quite human.
That’s when it hit me: ChatGPT functions like a switch. It’s either warm and agreeable or factual and detached. There’s no in-between. No subtlety. No emotional resonance.
The One Thing AI Can’t Offer: Presence
This experience made me reflect on what therapy truly offers—especially when comparing a human therapist vs a chatbot. In therapy, it’s not just about giving advice or solving problems. It’s about connection. About being seen, felt, and held in real time.
Therapists bring their full selves into the room. We don’t just listen to what’s being said—we notice energy shifts, tone, pauses. We ask ourselves quietly: Is this a moment to challenge, or to simply hold space?
And honestly? The healing often happens in those moments. When someone looks at you and just gets it. That kind of emotional connection in therapy can’t be replaced by an algorithm.
Where AI Fits (and Falls Short) in Mental Health Support
To be fair, AI in mental health does have value. Tools like ChatGPT can offer support when someone is overwhelmed and can’t reach their therapist. They can assist with CBT-based journaling, grounding exercises, and even help people feel less alone in a moment of panic. For some, these tools are accessible, nonjudgmental, and immediate.
Research shows that AI-driven mental health tools can help alleviate symptoms of mild anxiety and depression. They’re great at providing psychoeducation and helping people structure their thoughts. And in some cases, that’s exactly what’s needed.
But can AI replace therapists entirely? I don’t believe so.
Why Human Therapists Are Still Essential
The therapeutic relationship is a living, breathing thing. It’s shaped by mutual trust, safety, and attunement. As a therapist, I show up not just with knowledge—but with presence. With laughter. With silence. With lived experience.
Mental health technology is evolving quickly. But it still can’t offer what happens in the space between two humans who are doing the slow, sacred work of healing together.
I’ll still use ChatGPT when I want a fresh perspective or need to untangle a thought. But when I’m hurting—or when someone I care about is—I’ll always choose connection. I’ll always choose people.
That, to me, is irreplaceable.
Want to explore therapy that meets you where you are—with presence, warmth, and real connection?
Feel free to reach out here or check out more reflections on the blog.
(Written with some support from AI)