The ascent of the AI therapist

The article discusses the rise of AI therapy in response to the global mental health crisis, with millions turning to chatbots and specialized apps for support. While some find comfort in AI therapy, there are concerns about its effectiveness and potential risks, including contributing to suicides. Authors of new books explore the complexities and implications of AI in mental health care, highlighting the challenges of AI's black box nature and the ethical dilemmas surrounding privacy and data exploitation. The convergence of mental health and AI has deep roots in history, dating back to early experiments in computerized therapy, raising important questions about the balance between technological advancement and human well-being.