The Use og Artificial Intelligence in Counseling: Improving Client Support and Mental Health Services

Abstract

This study examines the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in virtual counseling services, exploring the benefits and challenges that come with it. Based on a comprehensive literature review of 25 studies published on google scholar between 2020 and 2025, the study uses a library review methodology to analyze key themes. The results show that AI has great potential to improve the accessibility and effectiveness of counseling services, especially in areas with professional limitations. However, the study also found significant challenges related to ethics and data privacy. Issues such as user trust, the need for ethical oversight, and the importance of inclusive and transparent policies are major obstacles. While technologies such as secret computing and federated learning offer solutions to protect privacy, interdisciplinary collaboration between technology developers, mental health practitioners, and policymakers is indispensable. The study concludes that to maximize the benefits of AI, a balance between technological advances and the protection of user rights must be achieved through a strong ethical framework and sustainable policies