Priory has introduced a new AI-supported tool with digital mental health provider HelloSelf to allow patients to access structured support between therapy sessions.
The approach is initially being piloted with patients undergoing outpatient therapy at Priory Wellbeing Centre Harley Street and Priory Hospital North London.
Patients can choose to opt in to the service, which uses HelloSelf’s AI-enabled companion tool alongside clinician-led therapy to help them remember and practice what they learn in therapy, reinforce therapeutic techniques, reflect on progress and stay engaged with their goals between sessions.
With patients’ consent, key elements of therapy sessions can be securely captured, enabling the tool to generate personalised ‘remind-me’ prompts and reflections based on what was discussed.
This allows patients to revisit key themes and apply their therapy more effectively each day in real-world settings.
All patient interactions are subject to clinical oversight and the system is specifically designed to identify and flag potential patient concerns, with escalation processes in place – including the ability to pause interactions and alert the clinical team where required.
As part of the approach, outcomes will be monitored using validated clinical measures, including GAD-7 and PHQ-9 assessments, to track patient progress and support ongoing evaluation.
The initial rollout will enable Priory to evaluate how this approach can improve patient engagement between sessions, support recovery, enhance continuity of care and reduce the risk of relapse.
Stuart Thomas, UK Head of Digital Health at Priory, said: “We know that what happens between therapy sessions is critical to recovery. This exciting approach allows us to utilise technology to enhance patient care by providing structured, personalised support beyond traditional settings, helping patients stay connected to their goals and make meaningful progress.
“Patient safety and clinical oversight are central to how this support tool has been designed. Participation is entirely optional and the tool sits within a broader framework of clinician-led care, with appropriate safeguards and escalation processes in place.
”As AI becomes increasingly integrated into everyday lives, people are increasingly turning to AI for health advice. This new service allows people to do that safely, with therapist oversight and clear safeguards in place, ensuring we harness the power of AI to improve health outcomes.”
Dr Rumina Taylor, Clinical Lead for HelloSelf, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Priory. As a clinician, I know the work between sessions can significantly impact outcomes. Our AI companion supports patients in those moments, while equipping therapists with better tools and insights. Extending its reach will help so many people.”
Charlie Wells, CEO of HelloSelf, said: “Partnering with Priory enables more people than ever to access leading clinical expertise, enhanced by cutting-edge technology. For the first time, we can extend Priory-quality support to millions through psychologically safe AI.”
Priory is the largest independent provider of mental health, addiction and working-age adult social care services in the UK, supporting more than 24,000 people annually across 270 sites.
