Why to Use — or Avoid — AI in Counseling
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1 . Enhanced learning . Both counselors and clients can use generative AI tools to learn more about a concept or idea related to mental health and wellness . To test this idea out , I recommend that you obtain a free ChatGPT account and then type questions such as :
• According to the DSM-5-TR , what does the specifier “ in remission ” mean in relation to substance use disorders ?
• What life experiences influenced Viktor Frankl , MD , PhD , to develop logotherapy ?
• What are specifiers and subtypes in the DSM-5-TR , and how are they different ? Offer examples and cite sources .
• What is “ parental alienation ,” and what are some of the criticisms and defenses of the concept ? Provide sources .
2 . Brainstorming . Counselors could use generative AI tools to brainstorm ideas for treatment plans and therapeutic interventions . Examples of prompts :
• I am a psychotherapist working with a client who was diagnosed with a major depressive episode that is likely connected to “ empty-nest syndrome .” What are some examples of treatment plan goals and specific interventions from a cognitive behavioral therapy perspective ?
• Provide descriptions of evidence-based treatment for antisocial personality disorder . Cite academic / scientific sources .
3 . Proofreading . Counselors can use ChatGPT to offer recommendations for clearer communication in written correspondence , such as emails and reports . Prompt examples :
• I am a mental health counselor submitting a report recommending accommodations for a client with generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder . Proofread the following report , and offer suggestions
for improving spelling , grammar , word usage , and clarity : [ paste report ].
• Offer suggestions for improving the wording of this professional email : [ insert email draft text ].
4 . Data analysis . Articles published in journals such as Industrial Psychiatry Journal and Journal of Medical Internet Research have focused on digital phenotyping , which uses data from apps , smart watches , and other devices to predict relapse , identify triggers and early warning signs of disorders or relapses , and offer additional insights that can be helpful to both counselors and their clients . For example , an AI tool may identify a seasonal pattern to a client ’ s depressive symptoms , or perhaps a pattern that correlates with a client ’ s menstrual cycle , while a counselor may not have picked up on that correlation .
5 . Psychoeducation and Support Between Sessions . Clients could potentially use AI bots to offer information about mental health , wellness , and therapy homework assignments between sessions , or acting as a counselor ’ s assistant , an informed life coach , or a support specialist between therapy sessions . For example , several studies have demonstrated that clients using Woebot , an AIpowered chatbot , have experienced emotional relief between sessions . AI bots can also check in with clients and ask them to rate their mood or remind them of their therapy homework .
6 . Differential Diagnosis . Counselors can use AI tools to consider various diagnostic possibilities for client presentations . Prompt example :
• I am a mental health professional conducting a mental health evaluation of a client . Her symptoms include depressed mood most of the day nearly every day for two weeks , difficulty falling and staying asleep , daytime fatigue , a sense of worthlessness and hopelessness , reduced appetite , and unintentional weight loss . What disorders might be potential diagnoses for her ? What questions might I ask during a follow-up interview for further assessment ?
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12 The Advocate Magazine 2025 , Issue # 1 American Mental Health Counselors Association ( AMHCA ) www . amhca . org