Shenakht Journal of Psychology & Psychiatry

Introduction: In recent decades, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as one of the most significant technological advancements, permeating various domains, including mental health and counseling services. So, it is essential to examine the multifaceted dimensions of its utilization in counseling and psychotherapy.
Aim: The present study aimed to explore the opportunities and challenges associated with the use of artificial intelligence in counseling and psychotherapy and to analyze its potential implications for professional structures and the human aspects of therapeutic practice.
Method: This research employed a systematic review design. Data were collected through comprehensive searches in the Google Scholar, Scopus, and PubMed databases covering the period from 2019 to 2024. Initially, 95 relevant studies were identified. After a rigorous evaluation of methodological quality, research validity, and thematic relevance, 14 articles with the highest credibility and alignment with the research objectives were selected for final analysis.
Results: The findings revealed that AI has the potential to enhance service accessibility, overcome temporal and spatial limitations, improve diagnostic accuracy, and facilitate the development of innovative virtual counseling models. Nevertheless, several challenges persist, including data security threats, risks of personal information disclosure, weakened authenticity in human interactions, limited multidimensional analytical capacity, and ongoing ethical and regulatory concerns.
Conclusion: The results emphasize the necessity of developing ethical and cultural frameworks aligned with the values of Iranian society, ensuring interdisciplinary professional supervision, and conducting rigorously controlled quantitative and qualitative research. The integration of AI into counseling and psychotherapy can remain effective and human-centered only if it aligns with cultural, religious, and moral considerations.