As the popularity of generative artificial intelligence continues to grow, more University of Michigan students have turned to the technology for counseling and therapeutic advice. U-M professors and students discuss the safety and effectiveness of these interactions and whether AI can fully replace in-person counseling advice.
Dan Adler, an incoming tenure-track assistant professor in computer science and engineering, studies the health care applications of AI. In an interview with The Michigan Daily, Adler said the rise in mental health diagnoses in the United States is causing longer waitlists for in-person counseling, such as the University’s Counseling and Psychological Services, leading to an increased usage of AI for therapy.
“There are a lot of individuals that do not have access to professional mental health care or face challenges finding affordable mental health care,” Adler said. “So it’s not a surprise that people would be going to technologies that are easily accessible, can be used 24/7 for mental health needs, if they do feel isolated and don’t feel like they have a way to reach out to a professional to get support for those needs.”…