A Comparison of Responses from Human Therapists and Large Language Model-Based Chatbots to Assess Therapeutic Communication: Mixed Methods Study.

Journal: JMIR mental health
Published Date: May 21, 2025

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Consumers are increasingly using large language model-based chatbots to seek mental health advice or intervention due to ease of access and limited availability of mental health professionals. However, their suitability and safety for mental health applications remain underexplored, particularly in comparison to professional therapeutic practices.

Authors

  • Till Scholich
    Institute for Human-Centered AI, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States.
  • Maya Barr
    PGSP-Stanford PsyD Consortium, Palo Alto University, Palo Alto, CA, United States.
  • Shannon Wiltsey Stirman
    Dissemination and Training Division, National Center for PTSD, Menlo Park, CA, United States.
  • Shriti Raj
    Institute for Human-Centered AI, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States.

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