A survey by the American Psychological Association of over 1,200 licensed psychologists in the U.S., found that many patients appear to be supplementing their relationship with a mental health professional with advice from AI.  More than three-quarters of psychologists report their patients are discussing artificial intelligence in therapy, using the technology to seek additional support with their mental health, find a diagnosis, or for friendship and intimate relationships. Thirty-nine percent of psychologists report having conversations with patients who used AI to self-diagnose, while a third of psychologists said their patients are turning to AI for help with self-discipline, affirmations or behavioral reminders or to assist with their treatment (33%) and some to act as an additional mental health professional (35%).  

While this data only reflects psychologists’ interactions with their patients, many more people may be using AI chatbots for mental health advice without critical guidance from a mental health professional. Chatbots appear to offer a path of least resistance for people in need of mental health support. They are readily available and easy to access without insurance.

APA CEO Arthur C. Evans Jr., Ph.D. suggested that “Before anyone relies on these tools for their mental health, they must understand how they work and how to think critically about the advice they provide.”

The APA is clear that AI is not a safe or effective replacement for a qualified mental health provider and should be used carefully. APA has published a new Guide to Navigating AI-Generated Advice Thoughtfully and Safely that offers evidence-based suggestions on appropriate and inappropriate uses of AI to address mental and behavioral health issues.

The APA Guidance was developed by an advisory panel of experts in digital mental health, clinical psychology, and youth and adolescent well-being, APA’s recommendations for users include:

• Verifying any mental health or medical information generated by AI with a health care practitioner.
• Asking for strategies aligned with research-backed therapeutic approaches.
• Prompting AI to challenge your thinking or provide alternative perspectives.
• Limiting your use of AI so it does not interfere with sleep, hobbies, school, work or social interaction.

Only a quarter of psychologists (24%) report that patients will one day prefer therapy chatbots to human mental health professionals, suggesting that psychologists are generally confident that human relationships between mental health professionals and their patients provide benefits that AI cannot yet replicate.

Link: Highlights from the APA 2026 Chatbots and Mental Health Survey