372 – Understanding AI Categories in Counselling Practice

The Future of Therapy in the Age of AI - Counselling Students and Agency Reports In Episode 372 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics: Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, they explore understanding AI categories in counselling practice, examining the different types of AI tools counsellors may encounter and why understanding these distinctions is essential for ethical and safe client work. Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with therapist and journalist Matt Hussey about the future of therapy in the age of AI and how technology may reshape mental health support. And finally, in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss agency reports in counselling training - what they are, why they matter, and how they contribute to assessing a trainee counsellor’s readiness for professional practice. Understanding AI Categories in Counselling Practice [starts at 02:58 mins] In this section, Rory and Ken explore understanding AI categories in counselling practice, examining the different types of AI tools therapists may encounter and why recognising these distinctions is important for ethical and safe practice. Key points discussed include: Digital Mental Health Technologies (DMHTs) are purpose-built for mental health care and developed with input from clinicians and researchers. These tools are typically regulated and designed with strong data protection and governance frameworks. General-purpose AI tools (such as ChatGPT or other large language models) are designed for broad tasks and are not regulated for therapeutic use. AI tools may appear supportive and conversational, but they rely on pattern recognition rather than genuine understanding. Commercial mental health apps may market themselves as therapeutic, but can vary widely in their safeguards and accountability. Therapists remain responsible for client confidentiality, data protection, and ethical decision-making when considering the use of any AI tool. The Future of Therapy in the Age of AI [starts at 34:25 mins] In this week’s ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with therapist and journalist Matt Hussey about how technology, culture, and rising demand for mental health support may shape the future of therapy. Key points from this conversation include: Clients are increasingly arriving at therapy with knowledge of psychological concepts such as trauma, attachment, and emotional well-being. The traditional model of clients as passive recipients of expert interpretation is shifting toward a more collaborative and relational therapeutic approach. Demand for mental health support continues to grow, with millions of referrals to services such as the NHS. Technology, including AI tools, is already being used by many people for informal emotional support. AI is appealing because it is free, accessible, and available at any time. Rather than seeing AI as direct competition, therapists may benefit from understanding why clients seek support from these tools. If you enjoyed this conversation, we highly recommend visiting The Brink by Matt Hussey—a thoughtful collection of essays exploring the hidden psychological forces behind how we think, feel, and connect in modern life. Counselling Students and Agency Reports [starts at 01:01:11 mins] In this section, Rory and Ken explain the purpose of agency reports in counselling training and how they contribute to evaluating a trainee counsellor’s professional development. Key points include: Counselling students typically complete 100 hours of supervised placement within an agency as part of their qualification. An agency report provides the organisation’s view of the trainee’s professional conduct and competence. The report assesses areas such as safeguarding, legal frameworks, ethical practice, and record keeping. It forms part of a wider assessment process alongside course assignments, tutor feedback, and supervision reports. Agency reports provide a 360-degree perspective on how a trainee works within a real counselling environment. This process helps ensure that trainees entering the profession are practicing safely, ethically, and responsibly with clients. Links and Resources Counselling Skills Academy Advanced Certificate in Counselling Supervision Basic Counselling Skills: A Student Guide Counsellor CPD Counselling Study Resource Counselling Theory in Practice: A Student Guide Counselling Tutor Training and CPD Facebook group Website Online and Telephone Counselling: A Practitioner’s Guide Online and Telephone Counselling Course