What Happens When AI Becomes a Teen’s Therapist

As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes more integrated into daily life, a growing number of teens are turning to it for something deeply personal: mental health support. According to emerging data, about one in eight adolescents is now using AI tools to process emotions, ask questions and seek guidance — often in moments when they feel overwhelmed or alone. But what does that actually look like in real life, and what are the implications for their emotional development?

In this interview, Koren Hudson, M.A., LPC, NCC, executive clinical director at Horizon Recovery, shares what clinicians are seeing on the front lines. From late-night check-ins with chatbots to the risks of replacing human connection with digital validation, Hudson offers a nuanced look at where AI can help and where it can fall short. She also provides practical guidance for parents, educators and teens navigating this rapidly evolving space.

About one in eight adolescents is now turning to AI tools for mental health guidance. From what you are seeing clinically, what does that actually look like in a teenager’s day-to-day life?

Koren Hudson, M.A., LCP, NCC: Clinically, we’re seeing AI integrated into very normal, everyday moments, late at night when teens are feeling anxious, after peer conflict or when they don’t feel ready to talk to an adult. It often starts as a quick question but can turn into ongoing use as a way to process emotions, seek validation or even trying to make sense of their experiences. For many adolescents, it becomes a private/always-available “check-in” space.

Where do you see AI tools genuinely helping teens who are struggling — and are there situations where that kind of accessible, judgment-free support fills a real gap?

KH: AI can be helpful in lowering the barrier for teens to begin talking about their mental health. It provides immediate, judgment-free responses and can help teens put words to what they’re feeling. For some, it serves as a first step toward insight or even a bridge that eventually leads them to seek support from a trusted adult or clinician.

Where does it start to go wrong? What are the most concerning ways you have seen AI shape how a teen interprets or responds to their own mental health symptoms?

The concern is when AI becomes a substitute rather than a supplement. Adolescents are still developing insight, their identity and emotional regulation, and AI can unintentionally reinforce cognitive distortions or provide overly simplified interpretations of complex mental health experiences. Without context or clinical judgment, it can shape how a teen labels or understands themselves in ways that aren’t always accurate or helpful.

Many parents have no idea this is happening. What signs should a parent look for that their teen may be leaning on AI instead of a trusted adult or professional?

KH: Some indicators include increased isolation, reduced willingness to engage with parents or clinicians, and language that sounds scripted or overly clinical for their developmental stage. We also see teens referencing advice or conclusions that don’t align with their full clinical picture. A noticeable shift toward preferring digital interaction over relational connection is often a key signal.

Is there a meaningful difference between a teen using a general chatbot like ChatGPT versus a mental health-specific app? Are some of these tools safer than others?

KH: There can be meaningful differences in intent and design, particularly with tools that are built with clinical oversight. However, no tool replaces the need for individualized, relationship-based care. Safety depends less on the platform itself and more on how it’s being used, the level of supervision and whether it’s integrated into a broader support system.

What would you say directly to a teenager who feels like an AI understands them better than the adults in their life — and what do you want parents and educators to do differently starting today?

KH: To a teen, I would say: it makes sense to want to feel understood, and it’s important you have spaces where you can express yourself freely. At the same time, real healing happens in relationships, which means with people who can truly know you, challenge you and support you over time.