WSJ Tech News Briefing · Saturday, September 12, 2026
The AI therapy industry is experiencing rapid growth, with estimates suggesting at least 100 AI bots specifically designed for mental health. These range from employer-provided services to numerous standalone apps, indicating a significant expansion in the availability of AI-driven mental wellness tools.
“The AI therapy industry is exploding.”
“John Torres, a psychiatrist at Boston's Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, estimates that there are at least 100 mental health focused AI bots.”
“There's a huge range. Some are coming from big companies specializing in mental health like headspace and Talkspace, but only available through certain employers. And then there are dozens of standalone apps.”