April 23, 2025

How to Evaluate an AI Therapy Apps: 5 Safety Checks for AI Therapy Apps Not all AI therapy apps are safe—or even ethical. From data leaks to dangerous advice, discover the 5 non-negotiable checks every user needs to make before trusting their mental health to an algorithm AI mental health apps have surged in popularity, offering 24/7 support at a fraction of traditional therapy costs. For millions facing therapist shortages, lack of resources or stigma, these tools promise to fill critical gaps in global mental healthcare. But as lawsuits mount over unregulated apps impersonating professionals, ethics experts urge caution: “Not all AI therapy is created equal—and some could do more harm than good. Interested in learning more about anti-inflammatory super food: Check out: The Secret to Japanese Longevity: Protein-Packed Tofu 1. Verify Clinical Endorsements & Clinical Foundation: Is the app based on established psychological theories or evidence-based practices? 2. Scrutinize Data Privacy Policies 3. Check for Clear Disclaimers 4. Assess User Feedback & Safety 5. Look for Human Oversight Your Quick-Start Guide: 5 Questions to Ask Before Trying an AI Therapy App Use this checklist as a first step—not a substitute for professional advice—to spot red flags in AI mental health tools. Question Notes 1. Does the app have clinical endorsements or peer-reviewed studies? □ Yes □ No □ Unsure 2. Is your data encrypted, and does the privacy policy ban third-party sharing? □ Yes □ No □ Vague 3. Does it clearly state it’s NOT a replacement for human therapy? □ Prominent □ Hidden □ None 4. Are crisis resources (e.g., hotlines) provided for emergencies? □ Yes □ No □ Hard to find 5. Can you escalate to a human therapist if needed? □ Yes □ No □ Paid add-on Next Steps: Why This Isn’t Enough This checklist is designed to filter out blatantly unsafe apps—not guarantee effectiveness. Even apps that pass these checks may: Always pair AI tools with human oversight. Pitfalls to Avoid For Deeper Evaluation: APA’s App Advisor The American Psychiatric Association’s App Evaluation Model offers a step-by-step framework: Disclaimer This article is not medical advice. AI therapy apps are supplemental tools and should never replace licensed professionals. If you’re in crisis, contact a therapist or emergency services. More on Wellness