Psychotherapy and artificial intelligence: the limits of technology in the promotion of mental health

Authors

Abstract

The integration of artificial intelligence in psychology has been growing significantly, although bioethical
issues related to this practice remain underexplored. This study aims to analyze the bioethical and
biolegal challenges, including those related to the American Psychological Association’s Code of
Ethics, concerning the use of artificial intelligence in psychotherapy. This critical article addresses
the topic from a reflective perspective. Two main categories were developed: “Artificial intelligence
and psychotherapy: functionality, integration, and application” and “Bioethical challenges and limits
in the integration of artificial intelligence in psychology.” The nature of these interventions was
analyzed, highlighting their potential risks and benefits, as well as the ethical boundaries involved.
It is concluded that the integration of artificial intelligence into psychotherapy practice presents
risks and limitations that require further studies, increased scrutiny, and discussion by the scientific
community and professionals in the field.

Keywords:

Artificial Intelligence, Bioethics, Psychology, Confidentiality, Privacy

Author Biographies

Sophia Ivantes-Rodrigues, Universidade Cesumar, Maringá/PR, Brasil.

Sophia Ivantes Rodrigues – Graduanda – sophiaivantes@hotmail.com
0009-0008-9967-6049

Marilia da Matta Silva, Universidade Cesumar, Maringá/PR, Brasil.

Marília da Mata Silva – Doutoranda – marilia.mata1991@gmail.com
0000-0001-7346-2386

Leonardo Pestillo de Oliveira, Universidade Cesumar, Maringá/PR, Brasil.

Leonardo Pestillo de Oliveira – Doutor – leopestillo@gmail.com
0000-0001-5278-0676

Lucas França Garcia, Universidade Cesumar, Maringá/PR, Brasil.

Lucas França Garcia – Doutor – lucasfgarcia@gmail.com
0000-0002-5815-6150

How to Cite

1.
Ivantes-Rodrigues S, Silva M da M, Pestillo de Oliveira L, Garcia LF. Psychotherapy and artificial intelligence: the limits of technology in the promotion of mental health. Rev. Bioét. [Internet]. 2025 Dec. 9 [cited 2026 May 13];33. Available from: https://revistabioetica.cfm.org.br/revista_bioetica/article/view/3958