Beyond language: embodiment, interpersonal synchrony, and multisensory interaction in AI-mediated psychotherapy

Abstract Generative AI chatbots show promise for mental health support, yet remain predominantly text-based, whereas psychotherapy additionally relies on embodied, multisensory, and interpersonal processes. These processes implicit in human-to-human psychotherapy have become explicit variables requiring examination in the context of AI-mediated psychotherapy. Drawing on embodied cognition, predictive processing, and interpersonal neuroscience, we propose an embodiment-informed agenda to evaluate therapeutic processes, calibrate multisensory features, and govern responsible use in AI-mediated psychotherapy.