Can AI Replace Therapy? Thoughts on the BBC Radio 2 Discussion

Today, I caught wind of an intriguing segment on BBC Radio 2, where they talked about AI being used instead of therapy. It’s part of their wider Wellbeing Week, and the discussion, led by Tina Daheley, looked at the growing use of AI chatbots to support people waiting for mental health services.

As a therapist, I’m not surprised this is coming up more and more. I’ve had several clients tell me they’ve used AI (like ChatGPT) as a kind of sounding board before coming to therapy. And honestly, there’s something in that. I thought it was really important to reflect on what this all means.

It’s also important to note that this is being used by the NHS whilst waiting to see human therapists.*

Is AI Therapy Helpful?

There’s no doubt that AI has its place. For some people, it can offer a helpful space to expand their thinking or reflect on something in the moment. There are some positives: it’s available 24/7, it doesn’t judge, and it even suggests some useful coping strategies. When you’re feeling overwhelmed and need to express your thoughts, tools like AI can feel like a lifeline, especially if you’re stuck on a long waiting list for counselling. Or if counselling feels like it’s out of reach, or out of budget, not everyone has access to private therapy. Personally, this is why I will always hold some concession spots.

But here’s where I think we need to be clear: AI is not therapy.

Therapy Is a Relationship, Not a Script

In good therapy, the relationship is the work. It’s not just what’s said, it’s what’s felt. The small moments. Real therapy is built on trust, connection, and the safety of being seen by another human. The space we create together matters just as much as the techniques or tools we use.

I’ve worked with people who’ve used AI to get started before they reach out for sessions. It has helped them to find their words, to test the waters. And that can be such a useful step. But over time, what brings the real shifts for clients is the therapeutic relationship. Feeling understood, supported, and gently challenged in a way that only a real human can do.

It’s REAL – these language-based models have many disclaimers because the bots are trained on algorithms with warnings to treat the interactions as ‘fiction’. The relationship that you build in therapy is absolutely not a work of fiction; it is incredibly real, with your real feelings, regarding your real life. So whilst I think these bots can be helpful on a very short-term basis, they do not have the same human motivations to support you as a professional therapist will.

As therapists, we work to ethical frameworks, we embody certain values, for instance, working to the good of the client. This informs our decision-making, our behaviour and the principled nature of how we work. You have access to these publicly. Whether it’s the NCPS, with who I’m an accredited member, or the BACP, the UKCP, whichever body your therapist is registered with, you can read through them yourself.*

Can AI and Therapy Coexist?

Absolutely. AI can be part of the picture. For some, it’s a starting point or a support between sessions. It can spark insights, offer psychoeducation, and encourage emotional reflection. But I don’t believe it can replace what happens in the room, or on the screen, with a skilled, attuned therapist who really gets you. Or is trying to get you. Because the very nature of being human is that we are imperfect, feeling, flawed beings.

An AI-generated image of a robot, with a disgruntled-looking therapist!

Final Thoughts

So, if you’re searching for “AI therapy” or wondering whether it’s enough on its own, I’d say: it depends on what you need right now.

As mentioned on the show today, we need humans to challenge us, whether that is a friend or a therapist. Humans have nuanced communication, where we pick up on body language, we all have our own unique personalities – and that’s what makes us so special.

AI might help you think things through, but when it comes to healing deep patterns, feeling safe, and building real change… there’s no substitute for human connection.

Looking for a real human to talk to?
If you’re exploring therapy and want someone who can offer both warmth and insight, I’d love to hear from you. I work with people aged 11 and upwards, and offer a relaxed, down-to-earth space to explore whatever’s on your mind.

Click here to book a free consultation

*References: