UNAIR NEWS “ As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to advance rapidly, numerous professions are facing the threat of disruption ” and psychology is no exception. Recent data reveals that 58% of Indonesian respondents are now open to the idea of replacing their psychologists with AI-based tools.
Several factors are driving this shift. Chief among them is the high cost of psychological consultations, prompting many to seek more affordable alternatives. Additionally, AI is perceived as offering greater user privacy. People also increasingly turn to AI for quick and accessible information about mental health terminology or symptoms.
Prof. Dr. Nurul Hartini, S.Psi., M.Kes., a clinical psychology and mental health professor at 51¶¯Âþ (UNAIR), cautioned that while AI offers convenience, it remains fundamentally limited. œAt its core, AI is just a machine, whereas psychological treatment requires emotional engagement, Prof. Hartini explained. She added, œAI-generated responses may not truly grasp the individual™s context and emotional state. For that reason, she stressed that mental health interventions must remain in human hands.
When Should You See a Psychologist?
Prof. Hartini outlined several signs that indicate a person may require direct intervention from a licensed psychologist:
- Experiencing distress that impairs clear thinking or emotional stability
- Engaging in unproductive or harmful coping mechanisms, such as self-harm, aggression toward others, or withdrawal from societal norms
Looking Ahead
Although AI™s role in psychology is inevitable, Prof. Hartini emphasized the need for mindful integration ” using AI to enhance psychological services rather than replace human practitioners. œProfessionals in health-related fields ” whether physical, psychological, or social ” rely on the transfer of knowledge, emotional connection, and psychomotor interaction. These elements are incredibly difficult for AI to replicate, she concluded. Mental health experts see the future of psychology not as a rivalry with AI, but as a partnership ” one that has the potential to significantly improve the overall quality of mental health care.
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