Many schools are struggling to provide adequate mental health support for students, with counselor shortages leaving critical gaps.
In response, Sonar Mental Health has introduced an AI-powered chatbot, Sonny, designed to act as a well-being companion for students who need guidance.
How Sonny Works
Unlike fully automated chatbots, Sonny operates with a human-in-the-loop approach. When a student reaches out, the AI suggests responses, but trained professionals – who have backgrounds in psychology, social work, and crisis support – review and send the final messages.
This ensures students receive thoughtful, responsible, and accurate guidance rather than just AI-generated replies.
Expanding Access to Mental Health Support
Since launching its first school partnership in January 2024, Sonar Mental Health has already made Sonny available to over 4,500 middle and high school students across nine school districts.
The chatbot aims to provide an easily accessible, stigma-free way for students to seek help when they need it.
Why Schools Are Turning to AI for Mental Health
One major reason schools are exploring AI-driven mental health solutions is the severe shortage of counselors. According to the U.S. Department of Education, 17% of high schools lack a counselor entirely, leaving many students without professional guidance.
With Sonny, schools can provide an additional layer of mental health support, bridging the gap until students can access in-person counseling if needed.
Not a Therapist But a First Line of Support
Sonar Mental Health CEO, Drew Bavir, emphasizes that Sonny is not a therapist. Instead, the chatbot acts as a first point of contact, offering students a way to express their concerns and receive general support.
When necessary, Sonar’s team collaborates with schools and parents to connect students with professional therapists.
Could AI Chatbots Be the Future of School Counseling?
As schools search for cost-effective and scalable mental health solutions, AI-powered tools like Sonny could play a bigger role in supporting student well-being.
While they can’t replace human counselors, they offer a valuable resource for schools facing staffing shortages and increasing mental health concerns among students.
Would you trust an AI chatbot for mental health support? Schools are already testing the waters, now it’s a matter of seeing how effective these tools can be.
