Hey Reader,

Today we have a deep dive into a topic that the IWAI team and I have been talking about – and worrying about – for most of 2025:

​The rise of AI 'friends' and 'therapists,' and what that really means for mental health, ethics and safety.​

It's written by IWAI magazine journalist Toni Matthews-El and includes original reporting and interviews that have never been published before.

As the dad of an almost-12-year-old, this is especially close to my heart, since teens are often the ones most at risk when it comes to mental health – a trend that's probably exacerbated by social media and, at least in some cases, seems to be made even worse by AI 'companions.' There are some honestly gut-wrenching stories in Toni's new article.

At the same time, I see the value of less expensive therapy solutions – chatbots really are good at providing standard (non-crisis) cognitive behavioral therapy, since it's the kind of thing you can easily document (or, in the old days, learn from a book). And having an "infinite therapy sidekick" instead of paying $100+ an hour is clearly a win for a lot of situations.

I also want to warn you that this article discusses very difficult topics, including suicide, so proceed with caution. But if and when you have the time and space, I really encourage you to read the whole thing, because I think this is one of the most challenging (and thus most important) frontiers of AI for us all to deeply consider and understand.

Here's the direct link – it's public and free (no paywall) and I encourage you to read, share, reply with your thoughts, or spread the word to others.

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​Your AI friend will never reject you. But can it truly help you?​

Millions are finding comfort in chatbots that listen without judgment – and some experts see real promise. Others point to tragic gaps in a technology racing ahead of its guardrails.

Link: https://innovatingwithai.com/your-ai-friend-will-never-reject-you/​

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Until next time,

– Rob
CEO of Innovating with AI

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If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, help is available. Contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 to speak with a trained counselor 24/7. You can also chat online at 988lifeline.org. In an emergency, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.