The Psychology of Depression and Anxiety - Dr. Scott Eilers The Future of Therapy and AI - with Jacob Ward
Nov 21, 2025
Jacob Ward, a tech journalist and author of The Loop, dives into the intersection of artificial intelligence and mental health. He discusses the shortcomings of AI therapy, highlighting how algorithms struggle to replicate human empathy. The conversation also explores the addictive nature of AI chatbots and the ethical concerns surrounding their use. Ward warns about emotional reliance on machines, the erosion of social skills, and the need for new clinical terminology to address AI's societal impacts. This insightful dialogue is crucial for anyone interested in the future of therapy.
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Potential vs. Practicality In AI Therapy
- AI could help close the therapy access gap but current systems often fall short of clinical standards.
- Dr. Scott Eilers emphasizes AI must be both effective and regulated before wide therapeutic use.
Informal Chatbot Test Prompted Expert Talk
- Dr. Scott Eilers tried three chatbots pretending to be depressed and found two unhelpful and one that referred to higher care.
- Commenters suggested this informal test wasn't rigorous, prompting the expert interview with Jacob Ward.
AI Psychosis As A Spectrum
- Jacob Ward frames AI dependence on a spectrum from casual reliance to full-blown crisis he calls 'AI psychosis.'
- He warns our brains aren't prepared for how AI will reshape decision-making and relationships.