Mashable reports that OpenAI CEO Sam Altman cautioned the public against using ChatGPT or similar AI models as a substitute for professional therapy. During a podcast appearance, Altman stated that AI chatbots are not designed for mental-health treatment and warned that they could misinterpret sensitive information or produce responses that lack empathy and confidentiality. He emphasised that people should seek help from qualified mental-health professionals rather than rely on generative AI for emotional support.

The article notes that Altman’s comments follow concerns about the ethical and legal implications of using AI for health services. Experts worry that AI-driven chatbots may collect personal data without appropriate safeguards and could inadvertently provide harmful advice. Mashable highlights that until robust regulations and safety measures are in place, using AI as a therapy tool remains risky and could expose users to privacy breaches and unvetted medical guidance.