New research suggests that AI-powered therapy bots, when properly trained, may be just as effective—or even more effective—than human clinicians in treating mental health conditions.
A groundbreaking study published in the New England Journal of Medicine reveals promising results from the first randomized clinical trial testing AI-delivered therapy. Researchers at Dartmouth College developed the AI therapist to address a critical issue: the severe shortage of mental health professionals in the U.S.
“Humans don’t scale well,” says Nick Jacobson, a clinical psychologist and co-author of the study. With only one mental health clinician for every 340 Americans, many people struggle to access care. While some existing AI therapy tools have raised concerns—even leading to harmful outcomes—Jacobson’s team spent over five years refining their model using evidence-based clinical practices.
How Effective Is AI Therapy?
The study involved around 200 participants with depression, anxiety, or eating disorder risk factors. Half engaged with the AI therapist, while the other half received no treatment. Those who used the AI bot showed significant improvement in symptoms.
Surprisingly, many participants formed strong therapeutic bonds with their AI counterparts. “People developed real trust in the bot,” says Jacobson, noting that this connection is crucial for successful therapy.
Another key advantage? AI therapy is available 24/7. Patients frequently messaged their virtual therapists at all hours, including during late-night insomnia episodes—something human therapists can’t always accommodate.
Regulation and the Future of AI Therapy
The American Psychological Association (APA) has warned about the risks of unregulated AI mental health tools. However, they praised this study’s rigorous approach.
“This AI therapist meets critical standards,” says Vaile Wright, APA’s Director of Health Care Innovation. “It’s rooted in psychological science, demonstrates efficacy and safety, and was developed by mental health experts.”
Still, researchers caution that the technology isn’t ready for widespread use. More trials are needed before it becomes publicly available. And despite AI’s potential, Wright reassures human therapists: “Given the provider shortage, we need all the help we can get—whether from humans or bots.”
As AI therapy evolves, it could become a vital supplement to traditional care, ensuring more people get the mental health support they need—anytime, anywhere.
