CHATBOT-DELIVERED COGNITIVE BEHAVIOURAL THERAPY: A STRUCTURED REVIEW OF EFFICACY, USER ENGAGEMENT, AND EQUITY OF ACCESS

Abstract

Background: Chatbots are increasingly used to deliver cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) via mobile and web applications. Many mental health systems cannot meet demand with face-to-face care alone. CBT chatbots have therefore been introduced in app form, but data on outcomes, dropout, and unequal uptake remain limited. Objective: This review evaluates whether CBT chatbots reduce anxiety and depression symptoms, which user- and design-related factors are linked to engagement and dropout, and which structural barriers limit who can practically use these tools. Methodology: Peer-reviewed studies from 2018 to 2026 were identified through searches in PubMed/MEDLINE and Google Scholar. Included studies examined automated CBT chatbots (e.g., Woebot, Wysa, Youper, Limbic Care) and reported clinical outcomes, engagement or dropout, and/or access-related findings. Twenty-four publications were synthesised thematically. Results: Short-term trials and observational studies reported reductions in anxiety and depression symptoms, with small-to-moderate effects1. Generative conversational designs were linked to higher engagement than static digital programmes in at least one RCT, which reported roughly 2.4 times the use frequency of a generative CBT app relative to workbook controls3. Attrition remained notable; one meta-analysis estimated intervention-arm dropout at 21.84%5. Unequal access persisted because of connectivity, device availability, and digital literacy, despite the privacy and round-the-clock availability of app-based care23. Conclusion: CBT chatbots may serve as useful low-intensity interventions, but their public health value depends on improved retention and fairer access. Implementation should address digital literacy, culturally appropriate design, and governance that does not restrict validated tools to already advantaged users.