Rise of AI and ‘quick fix’ therapy sparks concern among experts
New findings reveal fears over the future of mental health support, from AI threats to access barriers
As demand for mental health support continues to rise in the UK, a new survey by Counselling Directory reveals growing concern among therapists about the profession’s future. Among the issues raised, the increasing reliance on AI-driven tools and ‘quick fix’ solutions were mentioned as key risks
The survey, conducted in July 2025, gathered responses from over 660 UK therapists. While 72% said therapy is more accessible now than it was a decade ago, 70% said cost remains the biggest barrier for clients.
In addition, 62% of therapists expressed concern that AI could harm the quality or depth of human connection in therapy, and only 16% believed it would complement therapeutic work.
Some therapists, such as Counselling Directory member and psychotherapist, Tina Chummun, say that their clients do use AI tools such as ChatGPT as complementary support in between sessions:
AI could quite possibly be the cheaper alternative if societal challenges like the NHS being overwhelmed and under-resourced in conjunction with an economic crisis and turbulent, toxic working environment continue. This means taking drastic measures to try and take care of ourselves and our mental health, under immense financial and political societal landscapes
While 42% of therapists said AI could feasibly replace some aspects of therapy, such as chatbot-style emotional support, many remained cautious about its growing role in a system already under pressure. Nearly a third (29%) highlighted NHS limitations and long waiting lists as one of the biggest challenges facing the therapy profession.
I've done a lot of looking into AI, and I don't believe it can usefully integrate into therapy. While it's good at appearing to deliver meaning, it fundamentally is just responding with the 'average' of its dataset - meaning it inherently can't manage the nuance that is the bedrock of therapy. This is totally aside from the massive ethical and environmental concerns with AI as a whole.
Beyond AI, Many therapists expressed concern about the rise in ‘quick fix’ therapy services that offer instant access but may lack qualified practitioners or regulation. These developments, they warn, could further erode trust in a sector already under strain.
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