Charmer, Confidante, or Conspirator? – The Emerging Problem of “AI Psychosis” with Dr. Marlynn Wei, MD, JD

Tuesday, February 10, 6:30 - 8:00 pm
Virtual via Zoom

The second Tuesday of February is designated as Safer Internet Day. This observance aims to create a safer internet, where everyone is empowered to use technology responsibly, respectfully, critically and creatively. (Additional resources on Safer Internet Day may be found at https://safer.connectsafely.org/.) Currently, one important aspect of providing a safer internet is in exploring the emerging mental health risks of AI chatbots. 

AI chatbots have rapidly evolved into confidantes, companions, and even therapist-like support for millions of users. While these systems promise availability, accessibility, and emotional support, AI chatbots also introduce new and often hidden psychological risks.  

Our growing relationships with AI chatbots and AI companions are changing the way we think, feel, and connect, raising issues that range from emotional dependence to delusional spirals. Drawing on cutting-edge research, clinical insight, and real-world cases, Dr. Wei examines how these technologies are reshaping our minds and relationships.

The talk will cover:
• How and why people form emotional bonds with AI chatbots
• Warning signs and red flags of unhealthy chatbot use
• Which types of AI chatbots have the greatest mental health risks
• Practical ways AI chatbots can support mental health, while noting their limitations

Marlynn Wei, MD, JD, is a Harvard-trained award-winning psychiatrist, psychotherapist, speaker, and author based in New York City. Dr. Wei is a national voice on AI and mental health and writes for Psychology Today, where her articles have reached nearly 4 million readers. Her expertise on AI therapy, AI companions, and AI-mediated delusions has been featured on CBS Mornings, CNN, PBS, and HuffPost. She completed her psychiatry residency at Massachusetts General Hospital/McLean, where she served as chief resident and received the Anne Alonso Psychotherapy Award, and is a graduate of the Yale School of Medicine and Yale Law School. Dr. Wei specializes in psychodynamic and experiential therapy for professionals in her boutique private practice based in New York City.

$5 per person; please register online at shalomretreats.org or by calling 563.582.3592 by Friday, February 6.