The AI Therapist: When People Turn to Chatbots for Mental Health

The millions of Americans living with mental illness—as well as people dealing with life’s everyday stresses—often struggle to see a therapist when they need one. That’s a big reason why many people have started turning to AI tools such as ChatGPT for emotional support. But as a number of high-profile lawsuits show, that can sometimes lead to devastating outcomes. Companies creating AI for mental health say they can do better. What’s News host Alex Ossola and WSJ audio producer Pierre Bienaimé explore the growing field of these purpose-built tools, and how people are already using them, in Part 1 of our special series “The AI Therapist.”

Correction: An earlier version of this podcast incorrectly stated that human therapists are required to report to authorities when someone says that they want to hurt themselves or hurt someone else. The requirements for reporting vary depending on how serious and immediate the threat is. (Corrected on Aug. 13)

Further Reading:

Chatbots Are Replacing Therapists With Little Scientific Evidence Behind Them

Teens Seek Mental-Health Help From Chatbots. That’s Dangerous, Says New Study.

How AI Advice Is Undermining Eating-Disorder Therapy

When There’s No School Counselor, There’s a Bot

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