Episode 43: A.I. and the Future of Therapy

Can AI ever replace the human connection at the heart of therapy, or are we losing something essential in the process?   I’m sitting down with my friend and colleague Dr. Sue Varma to talk about something that’s been on my mind. Artificial intelligence is making its way into mental health, offering quick answers and structured advice. But can it truly replace the depth of human interaction? Sue shares why the connection between a therapist and client isn’t just helpful. It’s the foundation of real change.   We also dig into some common misconceptions about therapy. Many people think it’s just talking instead of an active process of insight and growth. Sue introduces her “four M’s of mental health”—mindfulness, movement, meaningful engagement, and mastery. These simple habits help us stay grounded in an increasingly digital world.   As AI continues to reshape mental health care, how do we embrace new tools without losing what makes therapy work? Let’s get into it.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction  03:09 Dr. Sue Varma’s Background and Book 04:21 AI in Mental Health: Introduction 05:04 Positives of AI in Mental Health 08:18 Concerns About AI and Human Connection 09:11 Cultural Sensitivity in AI Responses 11:12 Importance of Patient History in Therapy 14:02 Physical and Behavioral Observations in Therapy 17:02 Challenges of AI in Diagnosing Personality Disorders 20:02 Therapeutic Relationship and Rapport 23:10 Misconceptions About Therapy 26:03 Future of AI in Psychiatry and Psychology 27:06 Staying Grounded and Optimistic Amidst AI Advances 28:53 Four M’s of Mental Health 31:09 Closing   Links Connect with Dr. Sue Varma: IG, FB, Twitter: @doctorsuevarma https://www.instagram.com/doctorsuevarma/ Website: www.doctorsuevarma.com Practical Optimism https://amzn.to/4hQdrxT   Connect with Dr. Z:https://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/ https://www.zgrouptherapy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dr.z_psychologist/ https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.z_psychologist https://www.youtube.com/@DrJaimeZuckerman   Get my FREE breathing exercise here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/newsletter Register for my on demand virtual courses here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/workshops Order my workbooks! *Find Your Calm / Find Good Habits* http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/books Shop my new Mindfully Messy hoodie here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/apparel Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm