Considerations for the Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence in the Counseling Profession
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2025
Keywords
artificial intelligence, generative artificial intelligence, counseling, rehabilitation counseling, ethics, standards
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
https://doi.org/10.1891/RE-25-24
Abstract
Background: Artificial intelligence (AI) and generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) technology have rapidly evolved in recent years, posing substantial implications for counselors, counselor educators, supervisors, and researchers. However, research on AI and counseling is in its infancy, and while some counseling organizations have recently published AI-related standards, none have been published within some counseling specializations, such as rehabilitation counseling.
Objectives: This article aims to (a) introduce counselors to AI and GenAI, (b) review the benefits and risks of AI and GenAI for counseling practice, education, and research, (c) summarize emerging AI-related standards from national counseling organizations, and (d) present AI-related recommendations for rehabilitation counseling professionals.
Methods: A literature review was conducted, synthesizing peer-reviewed articles, ethical codes, and emerging guidelines from national counseling organizations. Examples of AI and GenAI applications in counseling, counselor education, supervision, documentation, psychoeducation, and therapy support were integrated. A GenAI model (ChatGPT-4) was used to codevelop AI-related recommendations for rehabilitation counselors.
Findings: Potentially beneficial uses of AI in counseling include proofreading of documentation; enhanced learning and research; improved case management and case documentation; graphic design for educational materials; strategic referral finding; enhanced data analysis; psychoeducation; and therapeutic chatbots and therapy homework. Challenges and harms include biased and inaccurate information; over-reliance on AI; security, privacy, and confidentiality concerns; harmful relationships with AI; and environmental impact.
Conclusions: AI and GenAI offer both promise and peril for counseling. Ethical use requires professional competency, transparency, critical evaluation of AI outputs, and safeguards for client welfare. Twelve recommendations are offered to guide rehabilitation counseling professionals in maximizing benefits while minimizing harm.
Was this content written or created while at USF?
Yes
Citation / Publisher Attribution
Rehabilitation Education, v. 39, issue 3, p. 120-139
Scholar Commons Citation
Norton, Aaron L., "Considerations for the Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence in the Counseling Profession" (2025). Department of Leadership, Policy, and Lifelong Learning. 324.
https://digitalcommons.usf.edu/ehe_facpub/324
