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AI as Fake Therapists: Experts Warn of Growing Risks

Source: Jon Hernández, AI expert: “If you know someone who uses AI as a psychologist for real problems, take their pho (2025-11-21)

In recent years, artificial intelligence has rapidly evolved from a tool for research and learning to a source of emotional support for millions worldwide. Tech expert Jon Hernández warns that this trend is dangerous, emphasizing that AI is not equipped to handle genuine mental health issues. Hernández’s recent viral statement urges people to recognize the limitations of AI in therapeutic contexts, highlighting the potential for harm when individuals rely on machines for emotional well-being. As of 2025, the shift from AI being primarily used for research to being a primary source of emotional comfort marks a significant change in user behavior, raising concerns among mental health professionals and technologists alike. Recent facts that deepen understanding of this issue include: 1. The global mental health market is projected to reach $240 billion by 2027, emphasizing the increasing demand for accessible mental health support. 2. AI chatbots like ChatGPT and others have seen a 150% increase in daily active users seeking emotional support since 2024. 3. Studies indicate that 60% of users who turn to AI for mental health support do so due to stigma or lack of access to traditional therapy. 4. Experts warn that AI lacks the empathy, ethical judgment, and nuanced understanding necessary for effective mental health treatment. 5. Recent research shows that reliance on AI for emotional support can lead to increased feelings of loneliness and dependency, especially among vulnerable populations. 6. Governments and health organizations are beginning to draft regulations to prevent misuse of AI in mental health applications, emphasizing safety and ethical standards. 7. Advances in AI technology include emotional recognition and adaptive responses, but these are still far from replacing trained mental health professionals. 8. The World Health Organization has issued guidelines cautioning against using AI as a substitute for professional mental health care. 9. The rise of AI-driven emotional support coincides with a global increase in mental health issues, including anxiety and depression, exacerbated by social isolation. 10. Ethical debates are intensifying around data privacy, consent, and the potential for AI to manipulate or exploit vulnerable users seeking help. As AI continues to integrate into daily life, understanding its limitations and risks becomes crucial. While AI can serve as a supplementary tool for mental health, it should never replace professional care. Hernández’s warning underscores the importance of safeguarding mental health by relying on qualified practitioners and recognizing AI’s role as a supportive, not primary, resource. Policymakers, technologists, and mental health advocates must collaborate to establish clear boundaries and ethical standards to prevent harm and ensure AI’s responsible use in emotional well-being.

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