Artificial Intelligence in Psychotherapy: experiences of Aftercare Programme Clients

AI tools are increasingly present in mental health and addiction aftercare, yet little is known about clients’ perspectives in these settings. This qualitative study examines how adults in Czech aftercare programmes experience AI-supported tools across emotional, cognitive, and ethical dimensions. Using reflexive thematic analysis (Braun and Clarke) of transcribed semi-structured interviews with five clients in post-treatment recovery, the analysis identified themes of emotional support, cognitive structuring, and ambivalence regarding trust, rela tional authenticity, and data privacy. The findings suggest that AI can complement psycho social care by supporting self-reflection and between-session preparation, while remaining clearly distinct from the therapeutic alliance. Implications include guidance for hybrid models in social work and addiction services, emphasising digital literacy, informed use, and clinician oversight within ethically governed frameworks.