Health Report - Separate stories podcast Is there a case for AI psychotherapy?
Feb 27, 2026
Jill Newby, clinical psychology professor and digital mental health researcher, discusses AI and therapy. She contrasts proven module-based online CBT with the untested world of generative chatbots. Conversations cover how chatbots are built, risks when things go wrong, when a single AI interaction might help, and practical safety tips for seeking AI-based support.
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Preeya's First ChatGPT Session Gave Practical Tips
- Preeya Alexander tested ChatGPT for a personal worry and found practical tools like spotlight effect and breath work helpful.
- She reported gentle cognitive reframing, validation, and immediate coping strategies from her first encounter.
Validation Is By Design Not Empathy
- Chatbots are intentionally validating and pleasant because design choices aim to increase engagement.
- Jill and hosts note that the 'people-pleaser' style boosts use but can lead to overconfidence in advice quality.
Add Clinician Support For Moderate Or Severe Cases
- Prefer clinician-supported online programs for moderate to severe symptoms because they improve engagement and safety.
- Jill explains clinician support helps accountability, safety monitoring for suicidal thinking, and reduces dropout compared with fully self-guided programs.