Therapists have warned they have heard “horrendous stories” from people who have used AI chatbots for mental health support. 

According to a poll by Laya Health Insurance, 60% of people have asked AI chatbots for help with their mental health. 

However, Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy CEO Lisa Molloy described herself as “very concerned” by the findings. 

“It's not that AI does not have its uses, it does,” she argued on Newstalk Breakfast. 

“It can be helpful for signposting, for providing information, but it cannot replace a qualified mental health professional. 

“Also, it doesn't see the nuance that is required from that mental health professional when somebody is giving information.” 

Ms Molloy continued that the heart of good counselling is human connection, trust, empathy and understanding - none of which an AI chatbot is capable of. 

“A trained therapist will know when to listen, when to ask the difficult questions, when to challenge somebody safely, and also really importantly, when somebody may be at risk,” she said.  

“At the moment, there is no evidence that AI can replicate that therapeutic alliance that exists between a client and a trained counsellor or psychotherapist.” 

Most concerningly, Ms Molloy said that the industry routinely hears from patients who have been given poor advice for AI chatbots. 

“AI generated responses can or could reinforce harmful thought patterns, provide inappropriate advice,” she added. 

“We've heard horrendous stories about what can happen when vulnerable individuals follow AI for advice. 

“So really, the message is very clear; if anyone is struggling at the moment, please understand that a chatbot is not a substitute for a trained therapist.”

Anyone in need of emotional support can contact the Samaritans for free anytime on 116 123. 

Main image: A teenage girl wearing headphones sitting alone near the sea. Picture by: Alamy.com.