Balancing Innovation and Humanity: Advanced Practice Nurses Harnessing AI in Mental Health Care

OBJECTIVES: Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly changing mental health care through applications in screening, risk prediction, clinical decision support, documentation, and patient engagement. While these technologies improve efficiency and access, they also present ethical, clinical, and equity challenges that must be addressed in advanced practice nursing. This review synthesizes contemporary evidence on AI in mental health care and discusses its implications for advanced practice nurses (APNs), focusing on ethical implementation, equitable care, and policy. METHODS: An evidence-informed review of literature from 2019 to 2025 was conducted across various databases, including PubMed, CINAHL, and Google Scholar. The review covered AI applications, ethical considerations, health equity, and governance to identify themes relevant to APN practice. RESULTS: AI can enhance psychiatric assessments and patient engagement when used as a decision-support tool. However, challenges such as algorithmic bias, inconsistent performance, privacy concerns, and reliance on AI-generated recommendations persist. Emphasizing AI literacy, competency, and governance is crucial for safe, equitable implementation. CONCLUSION: APNs are well-suited to lead the ethical integration of AI in mental health care by merging evidence-based practice and patient advocacy. Ongoing investment in education, policy, and equitable governance is vital for maximizing AI's benefits while maintaining strong therapeutic relationships and quality care.