TR to evaluate the use of AI tools in mental health support
Published in Press Releases by Paula Scott on February 23rd 2026
Tavistock Relationships is delighted to be collaborating with the University of Roehampton and the Good Digital Network on a project to create a framework to evaluate AI interventions in mental health support. As a leading training organisation in the field of psychodynamic and psychanalytical psychotherapy, Tavistock Relationships is advising when artificial intelligence might be suitable as a therapeutic intervention, and when it could put individuals at risk.
Sarah Ingram, Head of Strategic Partnerships and Programmes at Tavistock Relationships, explains:
“As an experienced training organisation, we recognise the attributes and skills required to be a safe and effective therapist. Our students are trained to assess clients’ needs, recognise potential risks like suicide, self-harm or substance abuse, and hold many complexities in mind while working with clients.
“Technology and AI are part of all our lives, and we understand that people are beginning to lean on large language models like ChatGPT and specialist AI ‘therapists’ for advice. Participating in this project means we are part of the digital conversation and can bring our experience and expertise to the benchmarking process; recognising where AI can potentially support, and where it can’t.”
Laura Vowels, Lecturer and Programme Lead of Masters in Digital Health, University of Roehampton, has pulled together a variety of partners to drive the project. She says:
“AI presents possibilities for emotional support, but this comes with caveats. We want to find a way to evaluate the competency of AI including how it can be used safely and how we can identify risk. The team from Tavistock Relationships are providing insight and advice as to the role of a therapist, where the boundaries lie, and how to recognise potential issues.”
Tavistock Relationships has been training psychodynamic and psychoanalytic psychotherapists for more than 70 years and our unique approach, applying the Tavistock Model, has influenced the practice of psychotherapy around the world.
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For more press information contact:
- Paula Scott, Head of Marketing and Communications, Tavistock Relationships T: 07932 740221 E
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Notes for editors
TR has been helping individuals, couples and families experiencing relationship difficulties since 1948. The charity is a leading authority in couple psychotherapy, undertaking research, providing world class clinical training and delivering programmes to support couples and families to have better relationships.