Dr. Donna Marks says AI can aid recovery, not replace human care

Addiction recovery expert Dr. Donna Marks says artificial intelligence can reinforce healthy habits and teach practical coping skills, but lasting sobriety still depends on trust, relationships and emotional connection. The message lands as health care weighs how far AI can go in supporting treatment without displacing human support.

Why it matters: - Artificial intelligence could expand support for people in recovery by offering behavior coaching between therapy sessions. - Dr. Donna Marks argues the biggest risk is treating AI like a substitute for the trust and emotional work that drive lasting sobriety. - The debate comes as barriers such as cost, limited provider access and stigma keep many people from addiction treatment.

What happened: - Dr. Donna Marks, a licensed psychotherapist and addiction recovery expert, said AI can help people learn how to stay sober, but human connection remains essential. - Marks made the case in remarks tied to a recent Psychology Today article on treatment barriers. - Marks is the author of several books, including Exit the Maze: One Addiction, One Cause, One Solution (Love is Freedom).

The details: - Marks said AI can be effective at teaching behavioral change strategies. - Marks said AI can remind people to eat healthy, exercise, attend meetings and use healthier communication tools such as assertive statements and “I feel” messages. - Marks said many people with addiction also struggle with trauma, shame, low self-esteem and unresolved emotional pain. - Marks said therapy is not just about advice. It is about feeling seen, understood, challenged and supported. - Marks said meetings, social activities and meaningful interactions are important for long-term recovery. - The company's announcement directs readers to more information.

Between the lines: - Marks is drawing a line between informational support and relational healing. - The message suggests AI may be useful for structure, reminders and habit-building, but not for the emotional bond that can help people change deeply rooted behavior. - The emphasis on isolation and loneliness reflects a broader view of recovery as a social process, not only a clinical one.

What's next: - Marks says AI should be used as an aid to treatment, not a replacement for it. - AI may play a bigger role in supporting patients between sessions if clinicians use it to reinforce healthy habits. - Marks is available for interviews.

The bottom line: - AI may help people practice recovery skills. Lasting sobriety still depends on human connection.