The rise of AI in Mental Health
Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming a familiar part of our daily lives. From digital assistants to online chatbots, technology can offer quick answers and even basic support for people looking for information about mental health and wellbeing. Some AI platforms now simulate “counselling conversations,” providing an accessible first step for those who may be hesitant to reach out for professional support.
While these tools may have a role to play, they don’t replace the value of real, human counselling, particularly when it comes to complex and deeply personal experiences like road trauma.
Why Road Trauma Needs More than A Chat Bot
At Road Trauma Support WA (RTSWA), we know that every road trauma can affect anyone, and it impacts everybody differently. Whether you’ve been injured, lost a loved one, witnessed, or are a first responder, we all can experience grief, guilt, shock, or ongoing psychological distress. These emotions cannot be standardised or “solved” with an automated response.
AI may be able to provide information, but it lacks the ability to:
- Truly listen with empathy: While AI can mimic tone and language patterns learned from humans, it does not genuinely feel empathy or understand the emotions behind words. A trained counsellor recognises and responds to subtle cues, such as pauses, hesitation, or voice changes, in ways that foster trust and safety.
- Offer another perspective: In therapy, growth often comes from being gently challenged or guided to see things differently. AI tools tend to validate what is said rather than explore or reframe it, which can unintentionally narrow someone’s perspective instead of helping them process their experience.
- Adapt to individual needs: Road trauma impacts people differently; human counsellors tailor their approach in real time, guided by compassion and professional expertise.
- Hold safe space for grief and trauma: The therapeutic relationship itself is part of the healing process, built on trust, human presence and connection.
What the research says
Emerging research into AI in mental health care shows promise for increasing access to support, particularly for people who may face barriers to traditional counselling. Studies suggest that AI tools can reduce stigma and provide immediate information or coping strategies.
However, researchers consistently highlight that AI cannot replace the depth of understanding, therapeutic alliance, and nuanced care provided by qualified counsellors. For people experiencing trauma and grief, human connection remains the most effective pathway to recovery and long-term wellbeing.
The Human Difference at Road Trauma Support WA
RTSWA counsellors bring both professional training and lived empathy to every conversation. Whether over the phone, online, or in person, our service provides a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental space to process the ripple effects of road trauma.
AI may have a role in reducing barriers to information, but learning to cope and processing grief and trauma after a road crash requires connection, compassion, and understanding, things only humans can truly provide.
We’re Here For You.
If you or someone you know has been impacted by a road crash, RTSWA is here to support you.
References
American Psychiatric Association. (2024, May 6). New research: Human vs. ChatGPT therapists. Psychiatry.org. https://www.psychiatry.org/news-room/news-releases/new-research-human-vs-chatgpt-therapists
Luo, C., Sanger, N., Singhal, N., Pattrick, K., Shams, I., Shahid, H., … & Thabane, L. (2020). A comparison of electronically-delivered and face to face cognitive behavioural therapies in depressive disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis. EClinicalMedicine, 24, 100442. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eclinm.2020.100442
Sander, L., Paganini, S., Lin, J., Schlier, B., Schick, A., Ebert, D. D., & Baumeister, H. (2021). Effectiveness of internet-based interventions for posttraumatic stress disorder in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Depression and Anxiety, 38(8), 883–898. https://doi.org/10.1002/da.23177
Olthuis, J. V., Watt, M. C., Bailey, K., Hayden, J. A., & Stewart, S. H. (2016). Therapist-supported Internet cognitive behavioural therapy for anxiety disorders in adults. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2016(3), CD011565. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD011565.pub2