Can AI Replace Your Therapist? The Benefits, Risks and Unsettling Truths | KQED
Briefly

The article discusses the growing demand for mental health services in the U.S. amid significant barriers to access, with nearly one in five adults affected but only a fraction receiving treatment. It highlights the emergence of AI-driven tools like Woebot and Rosebud, which provide round-the-clock support without the need for appointments. While these tools can help individuals address immediate mental health needs, they emphasize the importance of professional resources and do not replace traditional therapy. Concerns also arise regarding the adequacy of crisis support among various platforms.
"There were so many moments when I was spiraling at 10 p.m. on a Tuesday, and my therapy appointment wasn't until Thursday. I wished I had something that could help me recognize when I was going down an unhelpful path in real time."
"It's a companion to therapy. It helps people process their thoughts, but it also knows when to suggest reaching out to a real therapist."
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