Artificial intelligence research based on dialogue technology is booming, and clinical counseling is a typical field that uses conversational technology to achieve its goals. Thus, the development of artificial intelligence counseling is a new and popular direction. In this paper, we defined the concept of AI counseling, reviewd the initial development of artificial intelligence counseling and applied research, and provided a comprehensive summary of the techniques, types, effectiveness, and ethical issues of AI counseling, Meanwhile, we described the relevant theories of AI counseling in detail, including the construal level theory and emotional dialogue model. Finally, we summarized the challenges faced by AI counseling. AI counseling can solve the problem of insufficient supply side of counseling in China, and also provides personalized counseling services to meet the mental health needs of different groups. Furthermore, AI counseling can improve the efficiency and quality of mental health services and provide professional counseling scientifically. Finally, we can achieve the goal of improving the mental health literacy level of Chinese people by using the AI counseling.