As a Registered Counselling Therapist, I’ve been grappling with this question a lot lately, especially as AI becomes a more common tool people use for support between sessions.
I get why. It’s fast, accessible, and can help you brainstorm ideas, get validation in the moment, or reflect on your strengths & emotions all without needing to book an appointment. In some parts of Canada, it can also be hard to access affordable counselling, so AI feels like an easy first step for people.
But here’s the thing. AI is a tool, not a therapist. Here are the MAJOR differences between actual therapy and AI:
THE IMPORTANCE OF WITNESSING
When we work together in counselling, you’re not just getting advice. You’re being seen and supported in real time. I’m listening for patterns, emotions, and meaning. I’m helping you connect your career choices to your identity, values, and lived experiences. I am bearing witness to your suffering as a fellow human which is a key step in the healing process. AI can’t truly witness you or relate to you in that way.
CRISIS RESPONSE
There are also ethical limits. AI can share general info about family dynamics, culture or immigration experiences for example, but it can miss nuance or get things wrong. It’s not living your reality or fully understanding your context in the moment versus a therapist with lived experience. It also can’t assess risk or respond in a crisis, like helping you access immediate support if your safety is at risk.
WHY HUMAN RELATIONSHIP IS CRUCIAL IN THERAPY
I think AI can be helpful alongside counselling, but it can’t replace the human relationship that makes this work effective. Research shows that the therapeutic alliance (aka the human relationship between client and therapist) is what predicts positive outcomes in therapy, not the specific modality, and although people may feel a sense of connection with AI, it doesn’t offer mutual awareness, emotional attunement, or the experience of being truly seen by another person (or to see another person).
If you’re feeling stuck or want to explore your career or life more deeply, I’d love to connect. You can book a free 15 minute consultation through the Contact Us page or through my calendar online here.
