Why Are Clients Turning to AI for Mental Health?
Psychology Today
by Jeremy G. Schneider LMSW, MFTFebruary 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Clients with therapy experience are increasingly turning to AI chatbots for emotional support, surprising even those in the field. A recent unscientific poll revealed that 49% of participants who had been in therapy reported using AI for mental health support, finding it helpful. This challenges the assumption that AI users lack access to or understanding of traditional therapy. Research by Rousmaniere et al. (2025) further supports this trend, showing that 87% of AI users also had therapy experience. These findings suggest that AI is not just an alternative for those without therapy options but a supplementary or even primary tool for many.
The key factor driving this shift appears to be the immediate, actionable support AI provides. Unlike traditional therapy, which often emphasizes open-ended exploration, AI excels at quickly addressing specific issues and offering direct solutions. For example, someone experiencing an anxiety spiral at 3 a.m. might find relief through an AI chatbot, providing a practical response when human intervention isn’t available. This highlights the unique value of AI in mental health support.
However, this trend raises questions about the role of therapists. Some therapists may view AI as “therapy-lite,” dismissing its effectiveness compared to traditional therapy. Yet, by judging rather than embracing AI, therapists risk creating distance from clients who are already relying on it. The article emphasizes the importance of understanding and integrating AI as a tool for mental health, rather than viewing it as a competitor.
Ultimately, AI offers a different kind of support that complements traditional therapy. While it may not replace the depth of human connection in therapy, it provides accessible, immediate help when needed. For readers interested in health and mental health innovation, this shift underscores the evolving landscape of mental health care and the potential for technology to fill gaps in traditional approaches.
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Originally published on Psychology Today on 2/22/2026