A growing number of mental health therapists are turning to artificial intelligence tools to manage tasks like recording sessions, note-taking, and administration. These tools promise to streamline operations and allow therapists to focus more on client care. However, the use of AI in therapy also raises concerns about privacy and the therapeutic relationship.
Experiences with AI Tools
For two years, Molly Quinn trusted her therapist with deeply personal information. When her therapist introduced the idea of using an AI tool for note-taking, Quinn was hesitant. She wanted to ensure her conversations would remain confidential and safe. During a session, she noticed her therapist was no longer taking notes manually; instead, an iPad was recording. This realization left her feeling uneasy and violated.
Quinn’s reaction reflects a wider concern among therapy clients and professionals about the implications of AI in a setting that requires trust and confidentiality.
Molly Quinn felt disturbed when she realized an AI tool captured the content of her therapy session.
AI’s Growing Role in Therapy
Across the United States, many therapists are experimenting with AI tools like those offered by companies such as Berries and SimplePractice. These tools aim to reduce administrative work by recording sessions, transcribing conversations, and drafting clinical notes for revision. According to Berries’ CEO Tal Salman, this technology allows therapists to be more present with their clients by minimizing paperwork.
However, despite claims of enhanced efficiency, the acceptance of AI in therapy is not unanimous. Research by YouGov indicates that only a small percentage of Americans are comfortable with AI in mental health care, citing concerns about privacy, accuracy, and the lack of human understanding.
Ensuring Privacy and Trust
Therapy involves sharing personal and sensitive information, so even with privacy laws like HIPAA, breaches remain a risk. Kellie Owens, a professor of medical ethics, highlights that written consent might not suffice for informed decision-making. A verbal discussion about recording sessions is crucial to ensure transparency and maintain trust.
For Quinn, the risk of data breaches is a constant concern. She believes introducing AI into therapy increases the potential for exposure of personal conversations.
Impact on the Therapeutic Experience
Some therapists, like Marisa Cohen, worry about AI’s impact on therapy sessions. Even absent, the knowledge that AI records interactions may alter clients’ openness. Cohen also cautions about potential inaccuracies in AI notes, which, if unchecked, could misrepresent the client’s history.
In contrast, some therapists embrace AI for its administrative relief. Kym Tolson, a remote therapist, uses AI to manage documentation, saving significant time otherwise spent on admin tasks. This efficiency has allowed her to maintain a better work-life balance. Despite the benefits, Tolson is cautious and always reviews AI-generated notes thoroughly.
Choosing Privacy Over AI
For Quinn, trust was irreparably damaged after realizing her session was recorded without her clear consent. She sought a new therapist who aligned with her boundaries, explicitly rejecting AI in her sessions. For her, therapy is a private and intimate conversation not suitable for tech companies’ involvement. This perspective highlights the delicate balance between embracing AI’s benefits and safeguarding the core values of therapeutic practice.