In the practical blog on this piece, we began unpacking the pros and cons of AI in the world of counseling. Here, I would like to continue that conversation. If you have not read the practical part of this blog on this topic, I encourage you to go back and do so. There are definite safety concerns when it comes to using AI in counseling and some of these are covered in that part of the blog.

For now, I would like to continue talking about the pros of AI in the field of counseling. On a global level, AI appears promising because it can help address the therapist shortage.  Therapists are in high demand and especially in both overcrowded and remote areas. In busy areas there may not be enough of us to meet demand. And in rural areas, therapists may not exist.  AI—including chat boxes, apps and platforms hold the potential to make ends meet where counseling may not be easily available.

Another great thing AI can do in and between sessions is provide psychoeducation. Therapists can use AI to create handouts and homework for clients. And I have clients who use AI between sessions to research questions related to their mental health. Examples of topics some of my clients have researched include: positive coping skills, different kinds of grief and how to stop vaping.

The helpful thing about using AI while already attending counseling is that my clients can check things out with me. For example, if someone looks up different types of grief, they can bring in what they find and we can process it in session. And, if their search comes up with anything that is not real or worse, harmful, I can address it. As a counselor, most of the time I have enough of a knowledge base to know when something is real or not concerning counseling. And, if I don’t know, I have access to professional resources I can use to research to help me find the truth.

This leads me to my next point. The field of counseling and specifically the National Board for Certified Counselors is developing a code of ethics for AI (www.nbcc.org ). They are hoping to address things like accountability, client welfare, competence and confidentiality regarding AI.  America already has at least 20 government agencies regulating AI so it makes sense the NBCC is addressing AI too.

If you are already in counseling and thinking of using AI to help support your mental health, please make sure and discuss this with your therapist. If you are in need of a counselor, we would love to help. If you are struggling with any life stressor, we can support you as you learn the skills to not only weather your situation but also grow. Please contact Life Enhancement Counseling Services today at 407-443-8862 to schedule an appointment with one of our licensed mental health counselors.