In a world where mental health care remains overburdened and under-resourced, a new digital companion may offer a ray of hope. Headspace, the popular mindfulness app, has launched an artificial intelligence (AI) tool in the UK named Ebb, which is designed to support users through emotional reflection and mindfulness techniques—without replacing the human element of care.
Speaking to the PA news agency, Dr Jenna Glover, Headspace’s Chief Clinical Officer, described Ebb as a “sub-clinical support tool”. Unlike therapy or professional counselling, the AI does not offer diagnoses or mental health advice. Instead, it gently guides users to process their thoughts and feelings, providing 24/7 access to mindfulness resources.
“From a clinical perspective, Ebb is designed for self-reflection, helping members process thoughts and emotions and providing in-the-moment Headspace content recommendations,” Dr Glover explained. “It does not give direct advice but instead offers an empathic space for self-exploration.”
Dr Glover was forthright in her assessment of the current state of mental health services, calling the system “broken”. With waiting lists growing and a shortage of trained professionals, she believes AI tools like Ebb can serve as valuable adjuncts—bridging the care gap by offering immediate, non-judgmental support when it’s most needed.
“The reality is we exist in a time where the mental health system is broken, and I firmly believe AI can help fill gaps – but won’t replace every aspect of care,” she said. “Humans still have a central role to play in providing care.”
Since its launch in the US in October 2023, Ebb has facilitated over 1.4 million message exchanges. Headspace’s internal research indicates that 64% of users reported feeling heard and understood after interacting with the tool—promising figures in a space where simply being listened to can have a profound impact.
While some may remain wary of technology in such sensitive contexts, Dr Glover noted that privacy and trust were essential to Ebb’s design. All messages are encrypted, and user data is not used for targeted advertising. Furthermore, the companion is an optional feature—Headspace members can choose whether or not to use it.
“Trust is critical,” she said. “Many people are still adjusting to the increasing role AI is playing in daily life, particularly in health. That’s why we’ve taken every precaution to make Ebb safe, private, and clinically appropriate.”
The AI companion was developed through a collaboration between clinicians, AI engineers, and conversation designers. Licensed psychologists ensured that the tool adhered to evidence-based approaches, including Motivational Interviewing, while engineers focused on technological integrity. The result is a clinically sound yet empathetic and responsive digital experience.
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“Ebb was built by a team of experts at Headspace, including clinical psychologists, AI specialists, conversation designers, and privacy experts,” Dr Glover said. “This cross-functional approach ensures that Ebb is both technically advanced and clinically sound.”
Although questions remain about whether AI tools like Ebb could one day become clinical resources, Headspace’s current focus is on expanding personalisation within the app—offering more tailored support based on users’ unique mental health needs.
“Long term, we envision Ebb becoming a nimble AI companion, greeting each user that opens the Headspace app and routing them to the right support mechanisms for their unique needs,” Dr Glover said.
As demand for mental health services continues to outstrip supply, tools like Ebb may prove instrumental in helping individuals navigate everyday emotional challenges, while supporting human clinicians in delivering better, more accessible care.
