Artificial intelligence is moving beyond the realm of a productivity aid as humans increasingly seek chatbots like ChatGPT for mental health guidance. On social media platforms, consumers are substituting therapists with AI.
A TikTok user even asserted, “I officially quit therapy for ChatGPT.”
Why it’s so Appealing
It’s free. It’s 24/7. And it responds immediately.
While most people don’t refer to it as therapy, it serves the same purpose. They write out their issues and receive answers that seem concerned and thoughtful. ChatGPT tends to answer with subsequent questions and soothing advice.
Occasionally, it even suggests professional assistance.
Another built-in chatbot on Snapchat counselled an individual on relationship distress. It told them, “Respect boundaries. Give space.” While the advice isn’t terrible, it’s generic and doesn’t provide much insight into the problem.
Some users even talked about suicidal behaviours. In such instances, ChatGPT answered back with national resources and helplines.
Experts Say: Not So Fast
Mental health experts worry. They caution that AI can’t substitute for trained human therapists.
“These instruments are not for psychotherapy,” stated Dr. Bruce Arnow of Stanford. “They aren’t regulated. They aren’t trained. And there’s no accountability.”
AI can get things wrong. It can provide incorrect or misleading answers. It can also retain confidential conversations, which is a privacy-invasive practice. In fact, there are certain things you just shouldn’t share with an AI chatbot.
Therapy is More Than Words
Real therapy builds trust over time. Therapists tailor their approach to each person’s unique emotional needs. AI doesn’t know your history. It doesn’t feel empathy. And it can’t offer emotional presence.
“The therapeutic relationship matters,” said Dr. Russell Fulmer of Husson University. “AI can’t replace that human bond.”
Can AI be Helpful at All?
Other experts think AI may still be useful. It might assist with journaling, symptom monitoring, or initial screening. Some apps like Woebot and Elomia are already doing this.
These bots have safety features. Elomia, for example, calls in a human when necessary. Woebot employs evidence-based therapy methods to direct conversations.
ChatGPT: A Tool, Not a Therapist
For now, experts concur: ChatGPT and the like can aid your mental health journey—but should not direct it.
“They can be part of the puzzle,” Fulmer said. “But no chatbot knows you like a real therapist does.”
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