Counselor-in-Training Perceptions of Artificial Intelligence: Implications for Counselor Education

Authors

Leo Gonzalez Jr., St. John's UniversityFollow
Deija McCallaFollow

Author ORCID Identifier

0000-0003-1350-0234

Document Type

Empirical Research Article

Keywords

artificial intelligence, counselors-in-training, counselor education, AI in counseling, and thematic analysis

Subject Area

Counselor Education

Abstract

This study examined the perceptions of counselors-in-training (CIT) on artificial intelligence (AI) in counseling practice and training. 31 CIT responded to three open-ended questions about the benefits, drawbacks, and overall attitudes of integrating AI into counseling practice and education. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the responses. The findings showed that CIT perceive AI as a clinical support tool, especially for tasks such as diagnosis and treatment planning. Additionally, CIT voiced concerns of potential overreliance on AI, ethical risks, confidentiality concerns, and the possible loss of human connection. Furthermore, although several CIT expressed cautious optimism regarding AI's use in counselor education, some expressed skepticism. These findings have significant implications for counselor education programs considering the integration of AI, and future research should further explore AI’s impact on professional development within this field.

DOI

http://dx.doi.org/10.70013/qmr6nxlt

Recommended Citation

Gonzalez Jr., L. & McCalla, D. (2025). Counselor-in-training perceptions of artificial intelligence: Implications for counselor education. Journal of Counselor Preparation and Supervision, 19(3), 1-14.