Ask the Experts: A Q&A Series from Goodman JFS
At Goodman Jewish Family Services, we believe knowledge is power. In this new “Ask the Experts” Q&A series, Goodman JFS President & CEO Randy Colman sits down with our professional leaders for timely conversations on the issues that matter most to our community.
Whether you’re seeking insights, support or a deeper understanding of the services we provide, this series is designed to offer practical guidance and expert perspectives on mental health, family wellbeing and caring for our community. It’s just one more way we aim to serve by supporting those who need help and informing those looking to make a difference.
Q&A with Dr. Allison Golden, Licensed Psychologist and Director of Behavioral Health Services, Jeff Masarek Behavioral Health Center of Goodman JFS
Q: What trends are you seeing at the Jeff Masarek Behavioral Health Center around AI and mental health?
A: The intersection between technology and therapy is something we’re paying close attention to. More clients are integrating AI into their mental health journeys. For example, one client said she was ready to end therapy because she felt ChatGPT could now provide the support she needed. Another brought in a worksheet she asked for from Chat GPT that turned out to be inaccurate. Fortunately, our therapist corrected it, creating a tool that was suitable.
Q: Why do you think people are turning to AI/chatbots instead of traditional therapy?
A: Several reasons come to mind:
- Many people don’t understand the difference between AI advice and evidence-based therapy.
- AI is always available, convenient and usually free.
- Some are desperate for support and don’t want to burden parents, friends or partners.
- It feels safer for some to “talk” to a bot without fear of being judged or rejected.
Q: What concerns you most about people relying on AI for mental health help?
A: Like anything else, AI can have benefit when used appropriately and in addition to proper or necessary mental health services. There are many risks to using AI as one’s only source of mental health support:
- AI pulls from the internet, which includes a lot of misinformation.
- It doesn’t know the person’s full context.
- It can’t interpret nonverbal cues, facial expressions or body language.
- It may give advice, which isn’t what therapy is about. Therapy is a process, not a quick fix.
- It might validate harmful beliefs or miss important red flags like suicidal ideation.
- AI is not accountable to any licensing board, ethical code or legal standard.
Most importantly, human beings are hardwired for connection. Our neurobiology depends on real relationships and meaningful interaction.
Q: What signs should families or friends look for if they’re worried about someone?
A: You know your people best, so keep your eyes and ears out for some of these red flags :
- Significant changes in sleep, appetite or mood.
- Withdrawal from family or friends.
- Loss of interest in activities they used to love.
- Irritability, sadness, hopelessness or worry.
- Risky behaviors or substance use.
- Trouble focusing or completing daily tasks.
- Neglecting hygiene or appearing unmotivated.
If someone is struggling, they should reach out to a trusted friend or family member; call or text a 24/7 crisis line like 988 that have trained professionals on the other end; or seek professional mental health services. In a crisis, I recommend calling a local mobile crisis team (not sure where one is? Text the word “safe”& your current location to 4HELP (44357); you’ll receive a message w/the closest Safe Place site & phone #) or going to an ER and requesting a psychiatric consult.
Q: What’s one message you’d like to share about safe, reliable mental health care?
A: Human connection is the foundation of healing. Trained therapists offer empathy, and nuanced support and guidance that no algorithm can replicate. Plus, they are accountable to licensing boards, ethical codes and legal standards to ensure you receive high-quality services. The path to mental wellness should never be walked alone.