Motivation, Representation, and the Rise of AI: A Conversation with Dr. David Kim
Apr 24, 2025
As the field of mental health continues to evolve, therapists are reflecting on what truly drives client progress, where care is still falling short, and how technology—especially AI—is shaping the future of therapy. We sat down with Dr. David Kim, a licensed professional counselor with decades of experience, to explore these crucial questions.
With a practice rooted in compassion and cultural awareness, Dr. Kim offers a grounded, thoughtful perspective on the challenges therapists face today—and what excites him most about the path ahead.
What Drives Real Progress in Therapy? Motivation and the Role of the Therapist
Over the years, Dr. Kim has worked with clients from a wide range of backgrounds. One theme that stands out: motivation.
“A client’s motivation is a major factor,” he explains. “If a client does not see a buy-in in their own progress, the therapist’s hands are tied.” But motivation isn’t just something clients bring into the room—it can also be nurtured through the therapeutic relationship.
“An experienced therapist can help clients move toward activating their own motivation,” Dr. Kim adds. In his view, guiding clients to find that internal drive is one of the most meaningful parts of the work.
Underserved Communities: Where the Gaps Still Exist
Dr. Kim’s practice is primarily composed of clients of Asian descent—a group he believes continues to be underserved by the mental health system.
“We need many more culturally and linguistically competent therapists,” he emphasizes. But it’s not just about increasing representation. “We still have to work towards removing the stigma around receiving professional help.”
Addressing this dual challenge—building a more diverse clinical workforce and shifting deep-rooted cultural narratives—is essential for expanding access and equity in mental health care.
AI and the Future of Therapy: Hope, Hesitation, and Opportunity
When it comes to AI in therapy, Dr. Kim is both curious and cautious. “Given my age and my own trainers more than twenty years ago, I don’t think they ever thought about the possibilities of even tele-mental-health, let alone AI-aided therapy,” he says with a laugh.
Though he hasn’t yet integrated AI into his own clinical practice, Dr. Kim sees the potential. “AI technology is very helpful working with the elderly and addressing income disparity for those who are economically discriminated out of receiving therapy,” he explains. “I am genuinely excited about what AI can do. I am happy to be a follower.”
His openness reflects a growing sentiment in the field: technology should serve the work of therapy, not replace it. For clinicians like Dr. Kim, the promise of AI lies in its ability to support inclusion and accessibility—without compromising the human connection at the heart of care.
Looking Ahead
As mental health professionals navigate an increasingly digital landscape, voices like Dr. Kim’s remind us to remain grounded in empathy, driven by equity, and open to change. His commitment to client-centered care and thoughtful innovation offers a powerful model for how therapy can evolve—without losing its soul.
