Why ChatGPT Can’t Be Your Therapist

With the rise of AI and ChatGPT, many people have been turning to it for fun and for mental health support. While there are benefits to the accessibility and ease of use of services such as ChatGPT, it is also worth noting the risks. I’m sure you’ve noticed disclaimers when you’re at the gym on equipment like the treadmill which states to consult with your doctor before using it, or to proceed with caution. Mental health concerns encompass a wide range of issues, with varying levels of severity. It is important that we use caution when it comes to our emotional wellbeing too!

Now you might be thinking, “Well, ChatGPT is free/much cheaper than a therapist!” While therapy can be expensive, it is hard to replace the nature of the work. Therapists undergo many years of schooling and gain hours of experience prior to entering the field. At a minimum, therapists hold a Master’s degree. Upon graduation, therapists in Florida apply for an associate license in which requires them to be under the supervision of a licensed mental health professional (who has an additional qualification to supervise) for a minimum of two years before gaining independent licensure. During this time, associate therapists (called registered interns in Florida) are required to meet with their clinical supervisors biweekly. This ensures that their clients receive quality care, and provides support for the newer therapists in the field.

One of the most important pieces to therapy is the therapeutic relationship. The therapeutic relationship is the professional bond between (a human) therapist and client. It is said to be one of, if not the most, motivating factors for a client’s progress in therapy. Similar to healing, therapy is a process and journey in itself. A therapist’s presence, space, and energy is unique to each provider because of their human nature.

As for the costs, yes, I agree. Therapy can be expensive. AND, there are therapists out there who realize that and provide accessibility through services like Open Path, sliding scales, or student interns.

At Wallflower Counseling, it is my goal as a BIPOC female therapist who is a daughter of immigrants to provide quality and accessible care. I do this by accepting Open Path clients and offering a sliding scale.

I encourage you to explore your options before turning to services like ChatGPT, which is not flawless. Some things are better the old fashioned way.