An AI Chatbot Isn’t Your Therapist And That’s Actually Really Important
Let’s be honest, when you’re stressed, overwhelmed, or awake at 1 a.m. with your thoughts spiraling, turning to an AI chatbot can feel like the easiest thing in the world. It’s quick, it’s always there, and it never seems to judge. I genuinely understand why that feels comforting, especially in moments when you just need to get something off your chest. And with AI being everywhere now, it’s natural to lean on it.
But here’s the truth, and the part that’s important to remember: An AI Chatbot is not a Licensed therapist, and it doesn’t play by the same safety, privacy, or ethical rules that Licensed Therapists do. And that matters, especially when you’re sharing really personal things about yourself and your life.
Let’s walk through this together.
AI Doesn’t Give You Confidentiality. Therapists Do. When you talk to a Licensed Therapist, you’re protected by laws, ethics, and very real consequences if those protections get broken. We’re literally licensed because we’re held to those standards. Even before we can sit for our board’s licensing exam, we have to take and pass a State Law and Ethics Exam.
AI? It’s a completely different world. It’s a bit like the “Wild West.” Your chats can be stored, reviewed, shared with third-party vendors, or used to “improve the model.” And in many cases, this part surprises people: your messages can legally be used in court, because AI platforms don’t fall under federal HIPAA privacy laws. But Licensed Therapists do.
Think of it like this:
Talking to a Licensed Therapist is like closing the door, locking it, and pulling the blinds.
Talking to a chatbot is like having a conversation on a bus. With microphones.
AI Models Learn From What You Share. This isn’t shady. It’s openly stated in their policies (see references). AI tools are trained on user interactions, which means your personal stories could help refine future versions of the model. That may be fine for some people, but if you’re wrestling with trauma, relationship pain, identity questions, or anything deeply personal, you deserve a space that doesn’t use your vulnerability as training data.
No Emotion, No Relationship, No Real Safety Net. AI can sound warm and thoughtful. But it does not have:
- Lived experience
- Thousands of hours of clinical training (yes, really)
- Accountability
- Cultural awareness and cultural competence
- The ability to track patterns in your emotional world over time, (and your nervous system)
- A sense of when something is off and needs deeper care
And it definitely can’t hold you accountable, challenge your thinking gently, or support real transformation. Supportive vibes? Sure. Actual therapy? No.
You Deserve Real Support. Not a Substitute. If you’re turning to AI because it feels easier than finding a therapist, you are not alone. But therapy is different. It’s purposeful. Thoughtful. Private. Rooted in a relationship built just for you. A good therapist gets to know your story, your patterns, your culture, your relationships, and your goals. They help you grow, not just respond.
And most importantly: We protect your privacy like it’s sacred. Because it is.
Bottom Line from A Licensed Therapist: AI is an impressive tool, and can be helpful in so many ways. And, it’s not where your private thoughts and feelings belong. Or where you should pour your heart and soul. If you’re craving real support, a confidential space, and someone who shows up for you every week… therapy is where that happens. And if you have questions, curiosity, or nerves about starting? I’m right here. You don’t have to figure it out alone.
Please Note: The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to be mental health therapy, diagnosis, treatment, or a substitute for professional therapeutic services. Viewing this site or communicating through it does not establish a therapist–client relationship.
If you are seeking mental health services, please contact a licensed professional in your area or reach out directly to inquire about starting therapy. If you are in crisis, call your local emergency services or crisis hotline immediately.
References:
Adkisson, J. (2025, September 6). Artificial intelligence communications are not protected by any privilege. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/jayadkisson/2025/09/06/artificial-intelligence-communications-are-not-protected-by-any-privilege/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Nolo. (n.d.). Is what you say to an AI chatbot confidential? https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/is-what-you-say-to-an-ai-chatbot-confidential.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com
OpenAI. (2024, July). OpenAI law enforcement policy [PDF]. https://cdn.openai.com/trust-and-transparency/openai-law-enforcement-policy-v2024.07.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com
OpenAI. (n.d.). Privacy policy. https://openai.com/en-GB/policies/row-privacy-policy//?utm_source=chatgpt.com
