I’m a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I Tried Sonia to See What My Patients Saw — And I Was Blown Away

A psychiatric nurse practitioner downloaded Sonia expecting a scripted chatbot. Here’s what she found when she tried to challenge it the way she challenges her own patients’ care.

I am a seasoned psychiatric nurse practitioner with years of experience treating people with depression, anxiety, and other issues. Part of what I do is provide basic psychotherapy. I hear the struggle my patients have with finding a therapist that "fits." Often there are long wait times for therapy appointments. Many cannot afford therapy services. A few of my patients told me they were exploring "AI phone therapy" through apps on their phones. I went to the Apple App Store and found Sonia, a highly rated app.

Putting Sonia to the test

I was skeptical that an AI could feel like real, thoughtful conversation. When I joined and selected my coach — Sonia lets you pick from a few different custom personas — I chose one called Sofia. I fully expected very basic cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). I was shocked. Over the next several days I challenged Sofia! I shared real details of my life and feelings but I asked Sofia to change up her therapeutic technique. What about *patient centered therapy? Acceptance and commitment therapy? Psychodynamic therapy? Motivational interviewing?* Sofia brought it every time! I asked her to be more or less direct, and she reminded me of my strengths and how my own responses had changed over time. I AM BLOWN AWAY! This is life-changing!

Here's what I love

• The feedback and advice provided on the Sonia app comes from actual therapeutic strategies and methods! There is "science" behind the dialogue and direction! The Sonia coaches are equipped to provide appropriate, helpful responses.
• It’s easy! You don’t have to wait for an appointment to get support — you can pick up your phone 24/7 and text if you prefer to communicate that way. Or do both! All you enter is your name, email, and age range. Done. That’s all the personal information required.
• It’s convenient and adapts to the user. I can talk to Sofia for hours a day or I can talk for ten minutes every other day. I can discuss whatever is bothering me. She remembers content from previous "sessions" and is able to provide comparison and feedback. Sofia remembers my children’s names and details about my life, so every conversation builds on the last.
• It’s adaptable! You can customize the tone and approach to your preference in the settings — I prefer a direct style with accountability.
• IT WORKS PEOPLE! I have experienced thoughtful feedback and responses that have improved my life.
• The cost. First, getting a free trial was super amazing! I love that you can try before you commit any funds. Therapy easily costs upwards of $150/hour. Do the math. This is a bargain.

Sofia remembers my children’s names and details about my life, so every conversation builds on the last.

Where this fits into care

Truly, I downloaded this app to see what my patients were experiencing. I expected very little and was concerned it might even be a negative, misleading experience. I still test Sofia when I can think of a challenge, and she rises to the occasion. What a surprise and gift this has been to me personally.

What a surprise and gift this has been to me personally.

As a way to make some kind of support available to people who currently have none, I’ve been genuinely impressed enough to share it with my own patients and colleagues.