1- Master’s In Counseling, Department Of Counseling, Faculty Of Psychology and Educational Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
2- Assistant Professor, Department of Counseling, Faculty Of Psychology and Educational Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran. & a.javaheri@gmail.com , Javaheri.m@ut.ac.ir
Abstract: (260 Views)
In recent years, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in psychotherapy has grown significantly, with a notable number of individuals opting to engage with AI-based platforms as their therapeutic agents. So this research aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the opportunities and limitations of AI-based psychotherapy and to determine factors influencing the selection of this therapeutic approach. A systematic review methodology was employed to achieve this aim. In this regard, the search process was carried out using the keywords such as "Artificial Intelligence", "AI-based Psychotherapy", "ChatGPT", "Psychotherapy", "Counseling", "Mental Health", and "Mental Disorders" across the scientific databases including Magiran, Noormags, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, Scopus, PubMed, and Springer, which yielded 85 articles in the initial search. Then, the articles were screened and reviewed according to the predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, the PRISMA guidelines, and the critical appraisal skills checklist, ultimately resulting in the selection of 11 articles. Based on the analysis of the results, artificial intelligence cannot effectively and efficiently act as a therapist due to limitations such as a weakness in establishing a therapeutic relationship, an inability to express empathy and concerns about maintaining client privacy. However, as a therapist assistant, it has significant potential to improve the quality and effectiveness of psychotherapy interventions. It is suggested that therapists and other mental health professionals use the results of this research to plan and take action to utilize the capabilities of artificial intelligence in the psychotherapy process, which can play a significant role in improving treatment outcomes.
Type of Article:
systematic review |
Subject:
counseling Received: 2025/11/18 | Accepted: 2026/01/26 | ePublished: 2026/03/29