The advent of artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping many areas of our lives, including how we search for and receive information about our mental health. Like all technology, AI has its benefits and its risks. Much like the advent of the internet and telehealth, which increased access to underserved populations, AI increases accessibility by giving information to those who need it when they need it. However, this increase in information availability raises concerns about the risks. Due to a lack of oversight of the information given to vulnerable populations, many clinicians worry that the integration of AI into the mental health field offers more challenges than opportunities. Benefits of AI in Therapy AI offers several advantages to therapy patients. 1. Increased Accessibility and Convenience AI-powered tools, such as chatbots and search engines, offer increased accessibility to mental health support. These tools can provide immediate, 24/7 support, breaking down barriers related to time, location, and availability. For some individuals in underserved or remote areas, AI very well might serve as a stand-alone resource, as it offers support that might otherwise be inaccessible. 2. Early Detection “The evolution of AI has contributed effectively to the early detection, diagnosis, and referral management of mental health disorders” (Thakkar et al., 2024). Research has found that AI has shown promise in detecting medical and mental health conditions such as Autism, seizures, and even the early stages of schizophrenia. Furthermore, AI has been able to detect cognitive decline in those at risk, such as the elderly: “AI-powered sensors can detect changes in behavior patterns and alert caregivers or healthcare providers to potential emotional distress or cognitive decline” (Thakkar et al., 2024). With early detection, caregivers and medical providers are better able to provide the best possible support available to patients who need it. Paul, a 55-year-old man with a family history of diabetes, visited his primary care physician for a routine check-up. During his appointment, the doctor used an AI-powered platform to analyze Paul’s lab results and medical history. The system flagged elevated glucose levels and identified patterns suggesting he was at high risk for developing type 2 diabetes. 3. Support for Mental Health Professionals AI can assist therapists by providing data-driven insights and recommendations. For instance, AI can analyze session notes to detect patterns or progress that might not be immediately apparent to the therapist. It can also automate administrative tasks, such as scheduling and documentation, allowing therapists to focus more on direct client interaction. David, a Licensed Professional Counselor, noticed that some of his clients were struggling to articulate their feelings during sessions. To enhance his practice, he integrated an AI tool that analyzed session transcripts and provided insights into emotional patterns and common themes. Using this technology, David could identify trends in his clients’ speech, such as recurring phrases or changes in tone that indicated underlying issues. For example, during a session with Lisa, the AI highlighted her increased use of negative language over the past few weeks, prompting David to explore her feelings of hopelessness more deeply. This insight allowed him to adjust his therapeutic approach and introduce targeted interventions.