Sara Boyadjis, LPC, ACS, PMH-C, Associate Vice President of Clinical Outcomes and Evaluation at Care Plus NJ, was recently featured on NJ 101.5 to discuss the growing number of teens and young adults turning to AI for behavioral health support.
As AI tools become increasingly accessible, some people are using them to ask questions about their mental health, work through difficult emotions or seek guidance before speaking with a professional. For those who may be hesitant to talk about what they are experiencing, the anonymity of AI can make it easier to ask difficult or embarrassing questions.
During the segment, Sara explained that while this accessibility may make AI appealing, these tools also have important limitations. AI can reaffirm what someone is already thinking or feeling rather than recognize and challenge unhealthy patterns in the way a trained mental health professional can. It also cannot provide the full assessment and individualized understanding that are important when addressing a person’s behavioral health needs.
Recent research shows just how common the use of these tools is becoming, with nearly 1 in 5 adolescents and young adults turning to AI for behavioral health support. As AI becomes a more common source of mental health information and guidance, understanding both its potential uses and its limitations is increasingly important.
As conversations around AI and mental health continue to evolve, Care Plus NJ remains focused on making sure individuals and families have access to trusted, professional support when they need it
