# Artificial intelligence in psychotherapy: a new frontier or a threat to humanity?

Psychotherapy, for a long time considered exclusively the sphere of human interaction, is transforming today under the influence of the rapid development of AI. Chatbots, self-help apps, and remote counselling platforms based on machine learning algorithms are slowly entering our lives, promising new opportunities in mental health. But how useful are these innovations, and what risks do they carry?

## Accessibility and personalization: The benefits of AI in psychotherapy

One of the main benefits of AI in psychotherapy is accessibility. Conventional therapy is often limited by geographic barriers, high cost, and lack of skilled professionals. AI tools, by contrast, can provide 24/7 support tailored to a user's individual needs at a significantly lower cost, and in some cases at no cost.

Apps using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) have shown effectiveness in combating depression and anxiety disorders by offering structured programs and personalized tasks. For example, [Woebot](https://spectrum.ieee.org/woebot) Health provides a CBT-based chatbot that helps users deal with negative thoughts and emotions. Users interact with Woebot via text messages, receiving real-time support and recommendations.

Another example is [Wysa](https://www.wysa.com/for-individuals), which offers an AI assistant for support in everyday life. The app provides more than 200 digital self-help tools, including mindfulness exercises, breathing practices, and relaxation techniques. Wysa also offers the ability to communicate with qualified professionals for additional support.

### Specialist support: AI as an assistant, not a replacement

AI can help psychotherapists in their work. Algorithms are able to analyze large amounts of data, identifying patterns in patient behavior that may be overlooked by humans. This allows specialists to more accurately diagnose problems, develop personalized treatment plans, and track progress. In addition, AI can automate routine tasks such as record-keeping and reporting, freeing up time for deeper patient interactions.

Spring Health uses AI to personalize psychotherapeutic care. Their platform analyzes patient data to find the most appropriate treatments and specialists. This helps to reduce waiting times and increase the effectiveness of therapy.

### Empathy as a non-programmable quantity

But for all the efficiency of algorithms, the key question remains: can AI replace human understanding and empathy? Psychotherapy is not just the application of techniques, but the process of establishing a deep, trusting connection between two people.

AI can recognize the tone of speech, choose the right exercise, but it does not "feel" pain, doubt, or guilt. It doesn't interpret silence, it doesn't pick up semitones, it doesn't make a genuine connection. As psychotherapist Laurie Gottlieb said, "a person's presence and attention is something that heals, not an algorithm".

Philosophically, the question here is: can psychotherapy without a person be truly therapy, or does it become only an improved form of self-help?

## Risks: privacy, addiction, and the illusion of help

AI in psychotherapy is associated with several dangers:

1. Copyright/IP Policy. Psychotherapeutic sessions contain sensitive information, and leaks or breaches of systems can be devastating. For example, in 2023, there was a large-scale scandal with data leakage from the BetterHelp application - more than 7 million users were at risk.
2. Dependence on technology. If a person begins to rely solely on a chatbot, this can weaken their motivation to develop communication skills, self-reflection, and real interaction. "Pattern psychotherapy" appears, where depth is replaced by speed.
3. Security illusion. Some users may perceive AI as a complete replacement for a therapist without realizing the limitations of the technology. But AI has no right to diagnose, it is not responsible - it can be dangerous in crises.

## The future of psychotherapy

The future of psychotherapy likely lies in a symbiosis of human experience and artificial intelligence capabilities. AI will be used to increase access to care and make treatments more effective, while maintaining the centrality of the human therapist and their capacity for empathy and understanding.

It is important to develop ethical standards and regulations for the use of AI in psychotherapy to ensure the safety and effectiveness of such tools. More research also needs to be done to assess the long-term effects of AI use in mental health.

Ultimately, artificial intelligence can be a powerful tool in the psychotherapy arsenal, but it should not replace the human interaction that underpins effective treatment.

What are the pros and cons of AI in psychotherapy?

AI against anxiety: how GPT models are becoming next-generation therapists

As Europe accelerates its mission to supercharge the continent’s AI readiness and digital economy, influential leaders rallied together at the GITEX EUROPE x Ai Everything press preview this Wednesday in Berlin to address the strategic imperatives, progressive commitments and investments aimed at transforming Europe’s tech industry and talent pool into powerful engines driving the AI leadership agenda. 

[GITEX EUROPE x Ai Everything](https://event.gitex-europe.com/visitor-registration/?utm_source=thecymes&utm_medium=mediapartner&utm_campaign=20250428-gitexeurope25-visitors-partner), taking place from 21–23 May at Messe Berlin, brings together over 1,400 tech companies and startups exhibiting from 67 countries and 600-plus investors, with the mission of igniting a future where big tech, startups, and SMEs can access solid, scalable, and sustainable public digital infrastructure - from data centres, cloud connectivity to semiconductors - and enable a more flexible regulatory framework to fast-track the AI Continent vision. 

The event is organised by KAOUN International, in partnership with the Berlin Senate Department for Economics, Energy and Public Enterprises, Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, Berlin Partner for Business and Technology, and the European Innovation Council (EIC).

![](img/ai-01.jpg)

## Addressing Europe’s Digital Priorities Amid Changing Global Dynamics

In the lead-up to the show, senior government officials, investors, and ecosystem leaders echoed the progressive economic impact of the GITEX platform and its role in catalysing public-private partnerships, cross-sector collaborations, digital competitiveness, and multi-sector investments, while also reaffirming Germany and Berlin readiness, accessibility, and momentum to connect with the global tech ecosystem.

Kai Wegner, Governing Mayor of Berlin, remarked, “The GITEX tech fair is taking place in Berlin for the first time. This is a big achievement that confirms Berlin’s importance as an international location for industry events and innovation. Berlin is Germany’s startup capital and one of the top three cities for startups in Europe, alongside London and Paris. With GITEX, Berlin can further develop this leading position and gain additional momentum on the way to becoming Europe’s number one innovation hub.”

Franziska Giffey, Mayor of Berlin & Senator for Economic Affairs, added, “Berlin and GITEX are a perfect match. Together, we build a unique opportunity for industry innovators, startups and\
scale-ups to meet, foster progress and fuel economic growth. As Europe’s startup and innovation capital, and as a city deeply rooted in the spirit of international cooperation, we cordially welcome all GITEX EUROPE participants to Berlin.” 

Trixie LohMirmand, CEO of KAOUN International and organiser of GITEX worldwide, shared, “Germany as the world's third largest economy and GITEX as the world's largest tech event brand across continents have a shared commitment to forge collaboration in research and application of tech to solve global challenges.

The inaugural edition of GITEX in Germany shall be the largest tech and digital investment launch ever in Europe, and certainly the most global with over 90% of its international startups choosing to experience the trendy Berlin innovation hub for the first time. This is a powerful time in the epoch of Berlin with GITEX marking the symbolic rise of a bolder and more competitive Europe.”

Matthias Notz, Global CEO, Start2 Group, reinforced the call for startup acceleration: “the European startup ecosystem is bursting with breakthrough ideas and talent, yet what we need now is a recalibrated rhythm, where European nations join forces to empower founders, startups, and especially scale-ups, and where funding moves as fast as ideas do.”

![](img/left-to-right-kai-wegner-trixie-lohmirmand-and-franziska-giffey.jpg)

## European-Led, Global Convergence of Tech & Business

With participation from 34 European states, the event unlocks fast, seamless corridors for Pan-European as well as global digital trade, with prominent tech pavilions from France, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, the UK, among many more. During the press briefing, representatives from the Embassy of Netherlands, Britain and Italy commented on the importance of aligning innovation agendas and deeper cross-ecosystem integration.

Speakers included Robert-Jan Sieben, Head of Economic Department, and Eva Vergles, Startup Liaison Officer, Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands Berlin; Benjamin Wannenwetsch, Deputy Director & COO, British Embassy Berlin; Francesco Sordini, Head of Economic Affairs, Italian Embassy Berlin; and Francesco Dell’Anna, Deputy Director, Italian Trade Agency.

## Europe’s Innovation Potential Scales Globally with North Star Europe

In a defining moment for Europe’s entrepreneurial landscape, GITEX EUROPE x Ai Everything features North Star Europe, the region’s exclusive edition of the world’s largest startup showcase, uniting over 750 startups including 32 unicorns, from growth-stage AI pioneers to deeptech scale-ups, representing over 60 countries, alongside over 600 global investors with $1 trillion assets under management (AUM). 

At the press briefing, leading founders from Germany and Poland spoke about how GITEX platform enables new capital routes, global connections and visibility, especially in today’s mercurial market environment. Among them were Germany’s mobility budget platform Navit & AI-powered Industrial tech for manufacturing efficiency Ailoys, and Poland’s BrainScan, the AI-fueled startup transforming medical imaging with faster and more accurate diagnoses which has achieved significant success across Europe.

### The Most Comprehensive Deep Dive Across Tech Frontiers 

From AI and quantum breakthroughs to climate-driven innovations, each sector-led showcase unpacks the technologies reshaping industry, security, and sustainability at systemic scale.

Ai Everything Europe dives into scaling AI and its potential in recalibrating economic transformation with industry use-cases and talks from AWS, IBM, Cisco, Lenovo, Nvidia, Open AI, Qualcomm, SAP, among others. 

GITEX Quantum Expo (GQX), in partnership with IBM and Quantum Business Network (QBN), spotlights the advanced research and exponential business impact from IBM Research, CERN, INRIA, IQM Quantum Computers.

GITEX Cyber Valley reinforces cyber resilience and threat response with frontline showcases, exclusive programmes and activations from CrowdStrike, Fortinet, Kaspersky, Knowbe4, Proofpoint and many more, alongside talks with defence ministries and global CISOs from Germany, UAE, and Belgium.

Green Digital Action Summit, hosted in partnership with ITU and the German Environment Agency (UBA), focuses on accelerating tech-driven climate action and tackling key priorities – from AI intricacies to adoption of green technical standards.

GITEX Green Impact connects green tech founders and investors, with featured speakers from Airbus, Honeywell, and TotalEnergies, accelerating the commercialisation of bioenergy, green hydrogen, storage and electric mobility.

GITEX SMEDEX, backed by EISMEA and the ICC Digital Standards Initiative, includes a showcase and an expertly curated conference which empowers the engine of European economy - SMEs, by unlocking new opportunities for international trade, funding, and legal advisory. 

GITEX ScaleX, in partnership with AWS, focuses on scale-ups and late-stage companies seeking new market entries, mentorship and corporate partnerships.

GITEX EUROPE is part of the GITEX global network of tech and startup events, taking place in Germany, Morocco, Nigeria, Singapore, Thailand, UAE, and Vietnam. For more information, visit: [www.gitex-europe.com](https://www.gitex-europe.com/?utm_source=PR&utm_medium=press-release&utm_campaign=press-preview)

### About GITEX EUROPE

GITEX EUROPE x Ai Everything 2025, Europe’s most global, collaborative, and cross-industry tech event, taking place from May 21–23, 2025, at Messe Berlin, Germany. Convening over 1,400 exhibiting enterprises, SMEs and startups from 67 countries, alongside over 500 expert speakers across AI, Deep Tech, Quantum, Cybersecurity, Connectivity, Smart Cities, Green Tech, and many more, GITEX EUROPE x Ai Everything is advancing the continent’s digital future in partnership with the world. This inaugural edition features the new SMEDEX, GITEX SCALEX, and GQX, and brings to Germany the world’s largest and best-rated startup and investor event – North Star Europe. GITEX EUROPE x Ai Everything is seamlessly connected with GITEX network of tech and startup events in Germany, Morocco, Nigeria, Singapore, Thailand, and the UAE. For more information, please visit: [www.gitex-europe.com](https://www.gitex-europe.com/?utm_source=PR&utm_medium=press-release&utm_campaign=press-preview)

GITEX EUROPE x Ai Everything gears up for Berlin debut as influential leaders and policymakers preview bold cross-border tech partnerships, capital access, and AI economy acceleration

European Al Continent Agenda Gains Global Momentum at the Largest Inaugural Tech, Startup & Digital Investment Event 

The Global State Of Responsible AI In Enterprise 

Discover more insights on The Cymes!

Why shouldn’t you rely on ChatGPT or other AI tools? What’s the best way to effectively use AI in business without stunting your own creativity? And how can you distinguish high-quality AI outputs from nonsense? Leaders from various industries around the world will answer these questions and more at the technology conference WebExpo, taking place on May 29-31, 2024. The best tech event of the year will welcome 1,600 visitors, 91 speakers and mentors at the Lucerna Palace in Prague. The event features a rich two-day program, concluding with its popular all-day hands-on workshops on the third day. 

Even in the era of AI, creativity, expert knowledge and original thinking will always remain the most critical foundation across every discipline. Experts from online marketing, business, UX design, web development, and other specialisations will gather in Prague for the 16th edition of the technology conference WebExpo to discuss the opportunities and potential pitfalls they see emerging in their respective fields. 

## Improving creativity with AI

Creative developer [Cassie Evans](https://webexpo.net/sessions/animating-the-impossible/?utm_source=website&utm_medium=The%20Cymes%20Media&utm_campaign=press%20release) will be in Prague to teach you how to create entertaining websites and interactive animations. During her session, she’ll discuss common animation problems you may face — and reveal one magical technique that can help you solve them in no time. Cassie skillfully blends her graphics and development backgrounds, and like millions of other people is a huge fan of WebExpo’s keynote speaker: American comic book star, [Nathan W. Pyle](https://webexpo.net/sessions/how-to-form-a-habit-of-universe-construction/?utm_source=website&utm_medium=The%20Cymes%20Media&utm_campaign=press%20release), the creator of the popular series “Strange Planet”. 

Nathan thinks like a developer and is a true geek at heart. However, he shines more than anything as a creative on the digital scene. In his talk, he will give you a behind-the-scenes look at his work and reveal the four methods he uses to create his world-famous projects, including his successful TV series. Nathan will give you the courage to pursue the programming aspirations you haven’t yet dared to tackle. 

Worried about AI taking your job? You haven’t to be, says [Edoardo Binda Zane](https://webexpo.net/sessions/21st-century-skills-leveraging-creativity/?utm_source=website&utm_medium=The%20Cymes%20Media&utm_campaign=press%20release), a mentor in human management and leadership. At the conference, he’ll explain what our competitiveness will depend on in the world of AI and which skills AI can’t replace. You’re right if you guessed that creativity is among the most important ones. During his talk, Edoardo will show you how creativity works, how it can be trained, and how to incorporate it into your work. He will be followed by [Philip Bonhard](https://webexpo.net/sessions/robots-vs-designers-do-we-even-need-designers-in-the-age-of-ai/?utm_source=website&utm_medium=The%20Cymes%20Media&utm_campaign=press%20release), who will discuss what designers should know about AI beyond the general hype and how they can use it to increase their productivity 10x. In his eyes, AI should mainly be seen as an opportunity for growth.  

[Anna Bohoněk](https://webexpo.net/sessions/a-practical-guide-to-work-smarter-with-ai/?utm_source=website&utm_medium=The%20Cymes%20Media&utm_campaign=press%20release), for example, has spent the last five years working in fast-growing technology startups and exploring the practical applications of artificial intelligence in the business world. What are her top tips and recommendations? At WebExpo, she’ll share her most interesting insights and use real-life examples from her company Workplace Design Institute to show you what role AI can play in creating effective and successful organisations.

## AI as an opportunity and a threat

At the same time, it’s good to remember that one of the biggest challenges posed by AI is its ability to deliver highly credible false information. Come learn how to distinguish quality AI outputs from nonsense. Leading UX expert, [Nick Fine](https://webexpo.net/sessions/signal-to-noise-in-the-age-of-misinformation/?utm_source=website&utm_medium=The%20Cymes%20Media&utm_campaign=press%20release), with more than 20 years of digital design experience and a PhD in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) is coming to Prague to teach UX professionals how to use research and scientific methods to recognize misinformation. Moreover, even cybercrime has taken on a whole new dimension due to the power of AI, both in terms of threats and opportunities to detect them. Scientist and cybersecurity expert [Jindřich Karásek](https://webexpo.net/sessions/astounding-web-of-the-cognitive-warfare/?utm_source=website&utm_medium=The%20Cymes%20Media&utm_campaign=press%20release) will discuss how to use AI methods to identify attacks and protect your online space.

## New possibilities and trends

Looking beyond the next quarter is crucial if you want to go from vision to reality. With the help of data, we can accurately determine (not just randomly guess) the trends for the upcoming year. Be sure to come learn how to predict trends in the digital landscape with developer and strategist [Jan Pivovarník](https://webexpo.net/sessions/decoding-tomorrows-trends-with-todays-data/?utm_source=website&utm_medium=The%20Cymes%20Media&utm_campaign=press%20release). During his talk, he’ll delve into data mining and processing, data analytics, and applied AI. This talk is highly recommended for anyone looking to stay ahead of the competition — and their boss. 

For those of you who aren’t impressed yet by the results of generative AI tools like ChatGPT, make sure to sign up for [Vladana Bačová](https://webexpo.net/sessions/free-workshop-message-over-mass-strategic-content-creation-with-chatgpt/?utm_source=website&utm_medium=The%20Cymes%20Media&utm_campaign=press%20release)’s free workshop. The first Czech-certified UX writer will take you to the realm of prompt engineering and teach you how to combine copywriting with AI to create top-notch texts. Get ready for a hands-on session packed with concise tips and practical insights that will completely transform your content writing.

## The AI tool output motto: Trust, but verify

This year’s WebExpo Conference will focus on the development of AI. Even as artificial intelligence is quickly becoming essential in our professional and personal lives, we are still uncertain about all the potential opportunities and risks it presents.

“The hotly-discussed topic of AI deserves a critical look. It’s key to be able to use AI tools to support our own creativity, ideas, and skills,” says WebExpo director, Šárka Štrossová. “All technology professionals, from developers to marketers, need to learn how to distinguish when AI generates truly useful results and when it does not. That’s why we believe that education in this exciting area is absolutely essential.”

## WebExpo will take place from Wednesday, 29 May to Friday, 31 May 2024 in Prague

The technology conference WebExpo has been a constant in the industry, educating and connecting professionals of different specialisations for the last 16 years. On Wednesday 29 May, and Thursday 30 May, the three halls of Lucerna Palace in Prague will play host once again to world experts across the technology industry. Basic conference ticket holders will also enjoy entrance to three practical workshops. 

The third conference day, Friday, 31 May, is dedicated to practical all-day workshops led by international specialists. Tickets for the conference talks and Premium Workshops can be purchased together or separately. 

The conference program also includes mentoring sessions with industry specialists and the popular (and always completely full) Discomfort Zone discussions with Riki Fridrich. Throughout the conference, visitors will have many networking opportunities, either during the conference program or at three evening parties. 

Children of attendees will appreciate the [WebExpo Kids](https://webexpo.net/blog/webexpo-kids-sparking-tech-passion-for-the-future-innovators/?utm_source=website&utm_medium=The%20Cymes%20Media&utm_campaign=press%20release) program, where they can learn the basics of Scratch programming, 3D printing, and LEGO robots building under the guidance of experienced tutors. For younger children from the age of two, daycare services with professional au pairs will be provided in the Kids’ Corner.

Tickets for the conference are on sale at [www.webexpo.net](http://www.webexpo.net/?utm_source=website&utm_medium=The%20Cymes%20Media&utm_campaign=press%20release).

Learn from top technology leaders and explore the best ways to effectively use AI in business without compromising your own creativity. Join the 16th edition of the conference in Prague from May 29-31, 2024.

Kickstart your creativity with AI: Learn from the world’s top technology leaders this May at WebExpo 2024

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