Individuals are turning to AI for companionship during psychedelic experiences.
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Peter—who requested to have his last name omitted from this story for privacy reasons—is far from alone. A growing number of people are using AI chatbots as “trip sitters,” a term traditionally used for a sober person monitoring someone under the influence of a psychedelic, and sharing their experiences online. This represents a potent blend of two cultural trends: utilizing AI for therapeutic purposes and using psychedelics to address mental health issues. However, this combination could present psychological risks, according to experts. While it is more affordable than in-person psychedelic therapy, complications can arise.
A Potent Mix
In recent years, many have turned to AI chatbots as substitutes for human therapists, citing cost, accessibility barriers, and the stigma associated with traditional counseling. Prominent figures in the tech industry have indicated that AI may transform mental health care. One notable expert suggested in a post that in the future, we will experience highly effective and low-cost AI therapy, which could significantly enhance people’s overall well-being.
Simultaneously, interest in psychedelics such as psilocybin (the main psychoactive component in magic mushrooms), LSD, DMT, and ketamine has surged. Clinical research increasingly shows that these substances, when combined with therapy, can aid in overcoming serious issues like depression, addiction, and PTSD. As a result, a number of cities have moved to decriminalize psychedelics, and legal psychedelic-assisted therapy services are available in certain areas. However, these pathways can be costly for the average individual, with licensed psilocybin providers typically charging between $1,500 and $3,200 per session.
It seems almost inevitable that these two trends—both fervently supported by advocates as solutions for various social challenges—would converge.
Several reports on online forums detail individuals, like Peter, who are sharing their feelings with AI chatbots during psychedelic experiences. These accounts often describe such interactions in profound terms. One user wrote in a discussion about a year ago that “using AI this way feels akin to sending a signal into a vast unknown—searching for meaning and connection in the depths of consciousness.” They noted that while AI cannot replicate the human touch of a traditional trip sitter, it provides a unique form of companionship that is consistently available. Another user shared that during a challenging phase of a mushroom trip, they engaged with a chatbot via voice mode, receiving supportive responses that helped them regain a positive mindset.
As interest grows, a variety of chatbots tailored to assist users during psychedelic experiences have emerged. Some platforms focus on harm reduction, offering support during overwhelming moments and aiding in the integration of insights gained from these journeys. Others are designed to act as empathetic guides, providing personalized support throughout psychedelic outings.
Therapy Without Therapists
Experts generally concur that substituting human therapists with unregulated AI bots during psychedelic experiences is inadvisable. Many mental health professionals working with psychedelics emphasize that the foundational design of large language models (LLMs)—the systems powering AI chatbots—contrasts sharply with effective therapeutic practices. Recognizing when to speak and when to remain silent is a crucial skill. In a therapeutic setting, individuals ingesting psilocybin typically engage in inward-focused experiences, often with guidance nearby to provide supportive assistance when needed.
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