Note: The AI Therapy Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not provide psychotherapy, diagnosis, treatment, or medical advice. Listening does not create a therapist–client relationship with any host, guest, or affiliated entity. The show may discuss AI tools and self-help exercises; AI systems can be inaccurate, biased, or overly confident and are not a substitute for qualified professional support or crisis services. Do not rely on this podcast or any AI tool in an emergency. If you’re in immediate danger or at risk of harming yourself or someone else, call your local emergency number or contact a crisis line right now.

Episode Description

Have you ever found yourself "trauma dumping" into a chat box at 2 a.m. because you didn't know who else to talk to? You aren’t alone. In this introductory episode, we explore the massive shift in how we handle our mental health, including the staggering stat that 80% of people who use ChatGPT for mental health advice consider it a good alternative to traditional therapy.

We’re breaking down why people are choosing AI—from the 24/7 availability and lower costs to the simple fact that a robot won't judge you for your "embarrassing" questions.... But we’re also keeping it real about the serious risks of leaning too hard on technology. This podcast is your guide to using AI as a tool for growth without it "backfiring" on your well-being.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The Big "Why": Why millions of people are turning to AI because of waitlists, high costs, and a lack of local providers....

• The Comfort of the Screen: Why it’s sometimes easier to be vulnerable with an algorithm than a "flesh and blood" therapist.

• Prompting 101: What a "prompt" actually is and how to move from a generic "I'm stressed" to a request that actually gives you helpful, step-by-step support.

• What AI is Actually Good At: A look at how tools like ChatGPT can help with journaling, psychoeducation, and building skills like CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy)....

• Safety First: Why this podcast isn't a replacement for real therapy and how to protect your privacy while using these tools.

We’d love to hear from you! Leave us a comment or each out directly with your thoughts, questions or suggestions for future episodes at ⁠AITherapypodcast@empiricalwisdom.ca ⁠or reach out via the site ⁠⁠www.empiricalwisdom.ca/ai-therapy-podcast⁠

Meet Your Hosts: We’re a bit of a family affair! Join a consumer insights nerd, her techie husband, and her "annoying" older brother—who also happens to be a licensed psychologist. Together, we bring you "real talk" and practical tools to help you navigate technology mindfully.

Ready to dive in? Follow the AI Therapy Podcast wherever you get your podcasts!