AI as Fake Therapists: The Hidden Risks in 2025

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 a recent warning that underscores the growing concerns around artificial intelligence, tech expert Jon Hernández cautions against relying on AI for mental health support. Hernández emphasizes that AI tools are not equipped to handle genuine psychological issues and warns that treating AI as a therapist can be dangerous. His message comes amid a significant shift in AI usage patterns: from primarily educational purposes in 2024 to emotional support in 2025, a trend that has alarmed mental health professionals and technologists alike. Hernández’s insights are backed by recent studies indicating that over 60% of AI users now turn to these tools for emotional comfort, often replacing human interaction. This trend is compounded by the rise of AI-driven relationships, such as Japanese woman marrying an AI character she created, highlighting the emotional dependency forming around these technologies. Experts warn that AI lacks empathy, ethical judgment, and the nuanced understanding necessary for mental health care, risking misdiagnosis, emotional harm, and increased loneliness. As AI becomes more integrated into daily life, it is crucial for users to recognize its limitations and seek professional help for serious mental health issues. The rise of AI as a pseudo-therapist underscores the urgent need for regulatory frameworks, public awareness campaigns, and mental health literacy to prevent potential harm. With AI technology advancing rapidly, stakeholders—including policymakers, healthcare providers, and tech companies—must collaborate to ensure these tools are used ethically and safely, preserving human dignity and well-being. As we navigate this new era, understanding the boundaries of AI’s capabilities is essential to prevent a future where vulnerable individuals are left unsupported or harmed by misguided reliance on artificial intelligence.

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