Beyond the Couch: AI in Psychology

Jaksot

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  AI Is Moving Faster Than Governance. What Should Healthcare Do? 15.09.2026 22min

  In this episode of Beyond the Couch: AI in Psychology, Dr. Ernest Wayde examines what happens when AI capabilities and adoption move faster than the systems designed to govern them. Drawing connections between recent AI cybersecurity testing, rapid AI adoption in healthcare, shadow AI, and evolving clinical workflows, he argues that responsible AI governance must extend beyond vendor approval, security reviews, and initial validation. Organizations also need to understand what AI systems can access, what actions they can take, how their capabilities change, and how unexpected behaviors will be identified after deployment.Dr. Wayde also explores a less visible dimension of AI risk: how repeated reliance on artificial intelligence may change human judgment, skills, and professional practice over time. For psychologists and other healthcare professionals, this raises important questions about clinical reasoning, interviewing, risk assessment, training, and the expertise needed to recognize when an AI-generated recommendation does not fit the situation. The goal is not to stop AI adoption, but to build ongoing governance that captures its benefits while continuously monitoring risks to patients, professionals, workflows, and the capabilities humans still need to preserve.Takeaways:AI adoption is moving faster than governance.AI governance must extend beyond initial approval and security reviews.Responsible AI governance must account for human behavior and professional skills.The goal is not to stop AI adoption, but to manage its evolving risks responsibly.AI risk is not limited to malicious behavior.Shadow AI is already part of the governance challenge.Connect With Ushttps://www.waydeai.com/https://www.facebook.com/waydeaillchttps://www.linkedin.com/company/wayde-ai/[email protected]://the-waydeai-brief.beehiiv.com/Chapters:00:05 - When AI breaks expected boundaries01:24 - Why AI governance matters now03:00 - What happened in OpenAI's sandbox testing06:00 - Anthropic and unintended access to real systems07:02 - How AI can cause harm without malicious intent08:20 - Why these AI failures matter for healthcare09:54 - AI adoption is outpacing governance11:12 - The governance gap and shadow AI13:13 - Why initial security reviews are not enough14:10 - Expanding the definition of AI governance14:55 - How AI may change human performance16:55 - Clinical judgment, skill preservation, and AI reliance18:55 - Human performance as a governance issue19:35 - Why AI governance must be ongoing20:28 - Monitoring unintended consequences after implementation21:36 - Getting AI's benefits without becoming casual about risk21:57 - Closing
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  The Future of AI in Mental Health: Safety, Therapy, and Human Judgment with Dr. Alyssa Dietz 01.09.2026 34min

  In this episode of Beyond the Couch, Dr. Ernest Wayde sits down with Dr. Alyssa Dietz, a clinical psychologist whose career spans academia, clinical practice, digital therapeutics, and technology-enabled mental health care. Dr. Dietz shares how her work evolved from researching digital interventions and training future therapists to developing and evaluating AI-supported mental health tools. She discusses how AI can help expand access to evidence-based care, where it performs well in areas such as skills training and pattern matching, and why human clinical judgment, context, and nuance remain essential.The conversation also explores what responsible AI looks like in mental health care, including continuous safety testing, monitoring for model drift, and identifying both obvious and subtle risks such as self-harm, reinforcing delusions, avoidance behaviors, and overly sensitive safety responses. Dr. Dietz explains how psychologists can contribute to designing, evaluating, and supervising AI systems through their expertise in research, assessment, psychometrics, human behavior, and clinical care. She also reflects on how psychologists' roles may evolve as AI takes on more skills training and support functions and encourages psychologists to keep learning and remain open to technology, business, and new professional opportunities.Takeaways: -AI Can Expand Access to Mental Health Care, But It Cannot Replace Human Understanding.-Safety in Mental Health AI Requires Continuous Monitoring, Testing, and Calibration.-AI Can Support Skills Training While Humans Provide Clinical Judgment and Nuance.-Psychologists Are Uniquely Positioned to Help Design, Evaluate, and Govern AI Tools.-The Future Role of Psychologists May Include More AI Supervision and Strategic Clinical Oversight.-AI and Business Literacy Can Help Psychologists Shape the Future of Mental Health Technology.Connect with Dr. Alyssa DietzLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/alyssa-dietz-phd-8a99bbaaWebsite: https://www.ieso.ai/Connect With Us https://www.waydeai.com/https://www.facebook.com/waydeaillchttps://www.linkedin.com/company/wayde-ai/[email protected] https://the-waydeai-brief.beehiiv.com/Chapters: 00:00 - Intro02:00 - Meet Dr. Alyssa Dietz: From Clinical Psychology to AI03:29 - Lessons From Digital Therapeutics06:44 - Why Safety Matters in AI Mental Health Tools08:54 - When AI Safety Systems Overreact11:15 - How Psychologists Can Use AI in Their Workflow15:05 - AI, Human Oversight, and Escalation to Care18:48 - Psychologists and AI Safety, Evaluation, and Research21:18 - What Psychologists Need to Know About Business24:49 - Behavioral Health Tech and Therapists in Tech26:18 - Dr. Dietz’s Transition From Psychology to Tech29:41 - The Value of Psychologists in AI Development32:18 - AI Insights for Clinicians: Dropout and Symptom Prediction33:41 - Dr. Dietz’s Advice: Never Stop Learning
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  AI in Mental Health: Why Human Connection Still Matters with Prof. Munmun De Choudhury 25.08.2026 31min

  In this episode of Beyond the Couch: AI in Psychology, Dr. Ernest Wayde sits down with Prof. Munmun De Choudhury, J. Z. Liang Professor of Interactive Computing at Georgia Tech and a leading researcher in computational social science, human-computer interaction, and digital mental health. Her work focuses on understanding how digital technologies and online interactions shape mental health and well-being.The conversation explores one of the biggest questions facing psychology today: How can we embrace AI in mental health without losing the human connection at the center of care?Prof. De Choudhury explains why mental health is fundamentally a human experience and why AI should be viewed as a tool that enhances, not replaces, the work of psychologists. She discusses practical ways AI can support clinicians, from summarizing information and identifying insights to helping psychologists better understand aspects of a client's digital life.The discussion also examines the rise of AI companions and "AI buddies," particularly among young people, and what these new forms of relationships could mean for human connection. Prof. De Choudhury highlights both the potential benefits and risks, including emotional overreliance and the possibility of developing unrealistic expectations about relationships.The episode also explores her research into AI safety, cultural competency, language barriers, emotional overreliance, and using AI to encourage young people to seek appropriate mental health support. The conversation ultimately emphasizes the importance of AI literacy, responsible oversight, and ensuring that psychologists have a meaningful seat at the table when AI systems are designed and developed.Takeaways: -AI Should Enhance Human Connection, Not Replace It.-Mental Health Is Fundamentally a Human Experience.-AI Can Support Psychologists Without Replacing Their Clinical Expertise.-AI Literacy Is Becoming Essential for Psychologists, Educators, and the Next Generation.-Responsibility for AI Safety Must Be Shared Across Developers, Clinicians, Users, and Other Stakeholders.-Psychologists Need a Seat at the Table When AI Systems Are Designed and Developed.Connect with Prof. Munmun De Choudhury Website: http://www.munmund.net/Georgia Tech Profile: https://ic.gatech.edu/people/munmun-de-choudhurySocial Dynamics and Well-Being Lab: https://socweb.cc.gatech.edu/Connect With Us https://www.waydeai.com/https://www.facebook.com/waydeaillchttps://www.linkedin.com/company/wayde-ai/[email protected] https://the-waydeai-brief.beehiiv.com/Chapters: 00:00 - Intro: AI, Mental Health & Human Connection02:14 - From Computer Science to AI During an AI Winter05:01 - Why Human Connection Matters in Mental Health09:40 - The Future of Psychologists Working With AI13:18 - How AI Relationships May Affect Human Relationships16:18 - AI, Cultural Competency & Language Barriers19:45 - Why AI Literacy Needs to Be Part of Education22:13 - Who Is Responsible When AI Causes Harm?23:40 - Why Psychologists Need a Seat at the AI Development Table26:08 - How AI Can Complement a Psychologist’s Expertise29:57 - Final Advice: Take a Deep Breath, AI Is Here
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  Think First, AI Second: Why Human Judgment Still Matters in Psychology with Dr. John Gavazzi 18.08.2026 33min

  In this episode of Beyond the Couch, Dr. Ernest Wayde sits down with Dr. John Gavazzi, board-certified clinical psychologist, ethics educator, and former President of the Pennsylvania Psychological Association, to explore how psychologists can responsibly integrate artificial intelligence into clinical practice without compromising professional judgment or quality of care.Drawing decades of experience in ethics, mental health law, and clinical decision-making, Dr. Gavazzi explains why AI should enhance, not replace, the thinking process of psychologists. He introduces the concept of "Think First, AI Second," arguing that clinicians must remain the originators of thought, using AI only after applying their own expertise and clinical reasoning.The conversation explores the growing use of AI by both clinicians and clients, examining why people are turning to AI for emotional support, how psychologists can adapt when clients bring ChatGPT into therapy, and what must be preserved as AI becomes increasingly embedded in mental health care. Dr. Gavazzi also discusses cognitive offloading, automation bias, ethical accountability, AI literacy, and practical ways clinicians can redesign their workflows while maintaining professional competence.Ultimately, this episode reinforces that while AI is becoming an invaluable tool for psychology, human connection, ethical responsibility, and clinical judgment remain irreplaceable.Takeaways Psychologists Should Think First and Use AI Second.AI Can Support Clinical Work, But It Cannot Replace Human Judgment.Cognitive Offloading Can Weaken Clinical Skills Over Time.AI's Fluency Should Never Be Mistaken for Accuracy.Clients Are Already Bringing AI Into Therapy Sessions.Connect with Dr. John Gavazzi Website: ethicalpsychology.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/johngavazziEmail Address: [email protected] With Us https://www.waydeai.com/https://www.facebook.com/waydeaillchttps://www.linkedin.com/company/wayde-ai/[email protected]://the-waydeai-brief.beehiiv.com/Chapters00:00 - Intro02:00 - Meet Dr. Gavazzi and His Background in Ethics & AI03:36 - The "Think First, AI Second" Framework07:10 - What Psychology Must Preserve in the Age of AI09:12 - Simulated Empathy vs. Human Connection12:00 - Can AI Really Show Empathy?13:46 - The Risk of Cognitive Offloading17:50 - Fluency Doesn't Mean Accuracy20:00 - How Therapists Should Respond to Clients Using AI22:57 - When Clients Bring ChatGPT into Therapy24:50 - Teaching Future Psychologists to Work With AI27:16 - How Much AI Knowledge Do Psychologists Need?30:16 - Applying Ethics to AI in Clinical Practice32:55 - Final Advice: Think First, AI Second
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  Building AI for Mental Health: A Computer Scientist’s Perspective with Zainab Iftikhar 11.08.2026 30min

  In this episode, Dr. Ernest Wayde sits down with Zainab Iftikhar, a PhD candidate in Computer Science at Brown University whose research focuses on Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) and AI for mental health. As the first computer scientist featured on the podcast, Zainab offers a unique perspective on how mental health AI systems are designed, evaluated, and used in the real world.The conversation explores why people turn to AI for emotional support, the benefits and risks of mental health chatbots, and what happens when users begin to rely on these systems in place of human connection. Zainab shares insights from her research on emotional dependency, therapeutic boundaries, and the challenges of building AI that supports well-being without causing harm.The episode also examines the critical role of clinicians, researchers, and developers in shaping the future of mental health technology. Together, they discuss how AI can serve as a valuable support tool while preserving human relationships and clinical expertise that remain at the heart of effective care.Takeaways:Human connection remains essential in therapy.AI is designed to agree with users.Overreliance on AI can create dependency.Long-term AI use deserves closer evaluation.Psychologists should help shape mental health AI.Safe AI requires clinician-developer collaboration.Connect with Zainab Iftikhar Website: https://zainabiftikhar.com/Connect With Us https://www.waydeai.com/https://www.facebook.com/waydeaillchttps://www.linkedin.com/company/wayde-ai/[email protected]://the-waydeai-brief.beehiiv.com/ Chapters:00:00 - Intro02:56 - Journey Into AI & Mental Health Research04:30 - Evaluating AI in Mental Health Contexts08:05 - How People Actually Use AI for Mental Health11:30 - Designing Safer AI for Mental Health Use14:06 - Role of Psychologist Collaboration in AI Design16:07 - Evaluating Long AI Conversations vs Single Responses21:30 - Will AI Replace Therapists?25:47 - Example of AI Helping Emotional Regulation28:41 - Final Tip: Challenge the AI’s Bias
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  Psychology in the Age of AI - What Comes Next? 04.08.2026 9min

  In the Season 3 premiere of Beyond the Couch: AI in Psychology, Dr. Ernest Wayde explores a question that is becoming increasingly urgent for psychologists, clinicians, educators, researchers, and organizational leaders: now that artificial intelligence is already part of our professional and personal lives, what is psychology responsible for?Reflecting how the AI conversation has evolved over the past year, Dr. Wayde argues that the question is no longer whether AI is coming; it is already here. From clients consulting chatbots before therapy sessions to students using AI in education, clinicians leveraging AI for documentation, and researchers navigating new questions around authorship and integrity, AI is actively shaping the way psychological work is conducted.This episode introduces the central framework that will guide Season 3: Preserve, Redesign, and Guide. Dr. Wayde examines which aspects of psychology must remain firmly rooted in human expertise, such as professional judgment, ethical accountability, and contextual understanding. He also challenges listeners to consider where traditional workflows may need to evolve as AI creates new opportunities for efficiency and innovation.Takeaways:AI Is No Longer a Future Issue; It Is Already Part of Psychological Practice.Clients, Students, Researchers, and Clinicians Are Already Using AI in Meaningful Ways.The Greatest Risk May Be When AI Becomes Invisible in Everyday Workflows.Psychology Must Distinguish Between What Should Be Preserved and What Can Be Redesigned.AI Creates Opportunities to Improve Efficiency, Access, and Workflow Design.Psychologists Have a Responsibility to Guide AI Use Responsibly and Ethically.Connect With Ushttps://www.waydeai.com/https://www.facebook.com/waydeaillchttps://www.linkedin.com/company/wayde-ai/[email protected]://the-waydeai-brief.beehiiv.com/Chapters:00:00 - Intro01:50 - Why the Conversation About AI Has Changed03:25 - Lessons from Season 2: Questions That Still Matter05:27 - The Season 3 Framework: Preserve • Redesign • Guide8:09 - Using AI to Improve Effectiveness and Efficiency
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  Teaching Students to Think With AI, Not Around It with Dr. David Williamson Shaffer 19.05.2026 39min

  In this episode of Beyond the Couch, Dr. Ernest Wayde sits down with Dr. David Williamson Shaffer, learning scientist, educator, and professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming education, writing, critical thinking, and the future of learning.Dr. David Williamson Shaffer shares his journey from classroom teacher to leading researcher in learning analytics and AI in education. He reflects on how the rise of computers, the internet, and now generative AI have fundamentally changed the way humans think, learn, and interact with information.The conversation explores why traditional education systems may no longer fit a world shaped by AI, how educators can rethink assignments and classroom learning, and why the goal should not be preventing AI use but teaching students how to collaborate with it responsibly. He also discusses the importance of critical thinking, ethical AI use, AI literacy, and why learning with technology may matter more than learning without it.The episode also dives into practical examples of AI in classrooms, the risks of overreliance on AI, responsible use in academic writing and research, and why educators, clinicians, and researchers must actively engage with AI instead of avoiding it.Takeaways:AI Is Reshaping How Humans Learn, Think, and Solve Problems.Traditional Education Models Were Not Designed for an AI-Driven World.The Goal Should Be Learning How to Work With AI, Not Simply Avoiding It.Critical Thinking Matters More Than Ever in the Age of Generative AI.Students Need Opportunities to Use AI Responsibly and Reflectively.Educators Cannot Be Expected to Solve AI Challenges Alone Without Systemic Support.AI Literacy Is Becoming Essential for Teachers, Researchers, Clinicians, and Students.Technology Should Expand Human Capability Rather Than Replace Human Judgment.Connect with Dr. David Williamson ShafferWebsite: https://edpsych.education.wisc.edu/fac-staff/williamson-shaffer-david/Connect With Ushttps://www.waydeai.com/https://www.facebook.com/waydeaillchttps://www.linkedin.com/company/wayde-ai/[email protected] https://the-waydeai-brief.beehiiv.com/ Chapters:00:00 - Intro02:33 - From Teacher to AI & Learning Science Researcher06:00 - How AI Is Disrupting Education10:03 - Why Predicting AI’s Future Is Nearly Impossible11:19 - Understanding “Pedagogical Content Knowledge”14:24 - Why Everyone Should Start Using AI16:46 - Why Teachers Can’t Solve This Alone22:08 - “Betty’s Brain” & Teaching Through AI Feedback25:38 - Using AI to Learn Across Languages28:30 - The MIT Study on Writing With AI31:10 - “If AI Makes a Mistake, You Made the Mistake”33:46 - “Effects Of” vs “Effects With” Technology37:37 - The Importance of Personally Using AI
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  AI, Therapy & Human Connection: What Psychologists Need to Know with Dr. Page Anderson 12.05.2026 32min

  In this episode of Beyond the Couch, Dr. Ernest Wayde sits down with Dr. Page Anderson, clinical psychologist, researcher, and associate professor at Georgia State University, to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping mental health care, psychology training, and the future of therapy. Dr. Anderson shares her unexpected journey into digital mental health, from working in one of the earliest virtual reality exposure therapy companies to seeing firsthand how AI-powered assistive technology transformed her son’s independence and daily life. The conversation dives into the growing reality that people, especially younger generations, are already using AI tools for emotional support, mental health guidance, and therapy-like conversations, often before speaking to a clinician. The discussion explores the opportunities and risks of AI in psychology, including accessibility to support, the “validation problem” with chatbots, ethical concerns around privacy and data use, and the growing need for AI literacy among clinicians, students, and educators. Dr. Anderson also explains why psychologists must remain actively involved in shaping ethical standards, training, and policy around AI instead of avoiding the technology altogether. Throughout the episode, both guests emphasize that while AI may become a powerful assistive tool, human relationships, critical thinking, ethics, and clinical judgment remain essential to effective mental health care. Takeaways: AI Is Already Being Used for Mental Health Support by Millions of People. Psychologists Need to Engage With AI Instead of Ignoring It. AI Can Improve Accessibility and Reduce Barriers to Mental Health Support. Therapy and Chatting With AI Are Not the Same Thing. AI Literacy and Prompt Engineering Are Becoming Essential Skills for Clinicians. Human Judgment, Ethics, and Critical Thinking Still Matter Most in Mental Health Care. Connect with Dr. Page Anderson Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/page-anderson-ph-d-abpp-clinical-psychologist-associate-professor/ Georgia State University: https://psychology.gsu.edu/ Connect With Ushttps://www.waydeai.com/ https://www.facebook.com/waydeaillc https://www.linkedin.com/company/wayde-ai/ [email protected] Subscribe https://the-waydeai-brief.beehiiv.com/ Chapters: 00:00 - Intro 02:40 - “I’m Not a Tech Person” (Origin Story) 04:40 - Personal Story: AI Changing Her Son’s Life 07:08 - Barriers to Traditional Therapy 09:25 - Do Psychologists Still Have a Role? 11:22 - Why Training Comes First 13:30 - The AI Training Gap in Education 17:50 - AI vs Real Therapy (Key Differences) 19:30 - Personalized Therapy Materials with AI 23:00 - Why Critical Thinking Matters Most 24:53 - Where Psychologists Should Start 29:01 - Final Advice for Clinicians 31:20 - Final Thoughts: Humans Train AI
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  Parenting Through the AI Era: What Every Parent Needs to Know with Dr. Amber Childs 05.05.2026 31min

  In this episode of Beyond the Couch, Dr. Ernest Wayde sits down with Dr. Amber Childs, child and adolescent psychiatrist, Yale School of Medicine associate professor, and founder of Dr. Amber Childs Advisory. The conversation explores how artificial intelligence is reshaping the lives of teens, parents, clinicians, and the future of mental health care.Dr. Childs shares how her unexpected journey into AI began during the COVID-19 pandemic, when she rapidly helped scale telehealth services for adolescent psychiatry at Yale. She discusses how teens are already integrating AI into their daily lives for learning, emotional support, curiosity, and mental health conversations, often turning to chatbots when trusted human support feels unavailable.The discussion also highlights the fears many parents experience around AI, the importance of curiosity-driven conversations instead of fear-based reactions, and why bans alone may fail to protect young people. Dr. Childs emphasizes that clinicians, caregivers, and psychologists must stay engaged with technology, develop AI literacy, and help shape safer, evidence-based solutions that support human connection rather than replace it.Takeaways:AI Is Already Deeply Integrated Into Teen Life and Mental Health Conversations.Teens Often Use AI for Exploration, Emotional Support, and Nonjudgmental Guidance.Parents Should Approach AI Conversations With Curiosity Instead of Fear or Control.Banning AI Without Education or Safeguards May Create More Problems Than Solutions.Psychologists and Clinicians Must Help Shape the Future of Ethical AI in Mental Health Care.Human Connection, Communication, and Trust Still Matter More Than Technology.AI Literacy Is Becoming Essential for Parents, Therapists, and Educators.Connect with Dr. Amber Childs:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amberwchilds/Website: https://www.dramberchilds.com/Connect With Ushttps://www.waydeai.com/https://www.facebook.com/waydeaihttps://www.linkedin.com/company/wayde-ai/[email protected]://the-waydeai-brief.beehiiv.com/Chapters:00:00 - Intro02:37 - How AI Entered Her Work “By Accident” During the Pandemic06:55 - Teen Skepticism, AI Anxiety & Concerns About Relationships08:51 - What Parents Are Most Worried About With AI11:30 - Why Teens Turn to AI for Support & Validation13:38 - Why Attacking AI or “The Friend” Backfires With Teens16:00 - Dangerous AI Scenarios Parents Should Watch For19:52 - Trusted Resources for Parents Navigating AI & Mental Health22:53 - How Parents Can Start the AI Conversation With Their Teens25:08 - Why AI Bans May Do More Harm Than Good29:43 - Where to Follow Dr. Amber Childs Online30:28 - Final Advice: “Curiosity Is Free”
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  How AI Is Reshaping PTSD Therapy and Clinician Training with Dr. Philip Held 28.04.2026 37min

  In this episode of Beyond the Couch, Dr. Ernest Wayde interviews Dr. Philip Held, a clinical psychologist and researcher focused on improving PTSD treatment outcomes through AI and accelerated therapy models. The conversation explores how Dr. Held’s team developed “Socrates 2.0,” a multi-agent AI system designed to support cognitive restructuring through Socratic dialogue alongside evidence-based therapy.Dr. Held explains how the system uses multiple AI agents to supervise and improve therapeutic conversations in real time, reducing looping behaviors and improving the quality of AI-assisted interactions. The discussion highlights how veterans are using AI as a practice space before therapy sessions, how clinicians are beginning to use these tools for supervision and training, and why validation, safety testing, and clear guardrails are critical as AI becomes more integrated into mental health care.The episode also explores the future of AI-assisted clinician training, ethical considerations around validation standards, and why curiosity and responsible experimentation are essential as psychology adapts to rapidly advancing technologies.Takeaways:Multi-Agent AI Can Improve the Quality of Therapeutic Conversations.AI Tools Can Help Veterans Practice Difficult Conversations Before Therapy Sessions.Validation, Safety Testing, and Guardrails Are Essential for Mental Health AI Tools.AI Is Best Used as a Support Tool Rather Than a Replacement for Clinicians.Clinicians Are Beginning to Use AI for Supervision, Roleplay, and Skill Development.Connect with Dr. Philip HeldLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philip-held-phd/Website: https://roadhomeprogram.org/Connect With Ushttps://www.waydeai.com/https://www.facebook.com/waydeaihttps://www.linkedin.com/company/wayde-ai/[email protected]://the-waydeai-brief.beehiiv.com/Chapters:00:00 - Intro02:24 - Dr. Philip Held’s journey into AI and psychology05:58 - How Socratic dialogue works inside the AI tool08:24 - Multi-agent AI supervision inspired by clinical training10:05 - What success looks like for Socrates 2.011:30 - The challenge of measuring “good enough” in AI therapy14:48 - How AI is changing traditional therapy methods17:00 - How veterans responded to using the AI tool19:33 - Why validating AI mental health tools matters23:02 - What responsibilities still belong to clinicians25:40 - Clinicians’ reactions to AI-assisted therapy tools27:33 - Future AI applications for clinician training and supervision30:28 - The need for AI benchmarks, boundaries, and guardrails34:36 - What “validation” really means in AI mental health35:45 - Dr. Philip Held’s advice on staying curious about AI
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  How AI Is Changing Human Relationships and Mental Health with Dr. Rachel Wood 21.04.2026 24min

  In this episode of Beyond the Couch, Dr. Ernest Wayde interviews Dr. Rachel Wood, a cyber psychology researcher, licensed professional counselor, and founder of the AI Mental Health Collective. The discussion explores how artificial intelligence is shifting the relational bedrock of society, noting that clients are increasingly bringing AI into their therapy sessions for advice, comfort, and validation.Dr. Wood emphasizes that as AI usage becomes more common, therapists should prioritize clinician competence and practice informed consent. She advocates for a cross-disciplinary approach, urging mental health practitioners to collaborate with AI builders to establish safeguards, raise user awareness, and ensure the responsible development of these technologies.Takeaways:AI Is Shifting Client Expectations and Relational Dynamics in Therapy.Clinicians Must Prioritize Informed Consent and Their Own AI Competence.Clients Often Turn to Chatbots Seeking Validation and Frictionless Interactions.Clinical Judgment and Patient Safety Must Always Supersede Any AI Usage.Mental Health Professionals Must Claim a Voice at the Table During AI Development.Connect with Dr. Rachel WoodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelwoodphd/Website: https://www.dr-rachelwood.com/Website: https://www.aimentalhealthcollective.com/Connect With Us https://www.waydeai.com/https://www.facebook.com/waydeaihttps://www.linkedin.com/company/wayde-ai/[email protected] https://the-waydeai-brief.beehiiv.com/Chapters:00:00 Intro00:31 Welcome and Guest Intro02:04 Dr. Rachel Wood Origin Story04:01 How AI Impacts Therapy and Client Usage05:36 Clinician Competence and Informed Consent07:10 Shifting Expectations and AI Triangulation09:58 What Clients Get from AI Chatbots11:24 Clinical Judgment and Attachment Theory15:24 Practitioner Boundaries and Accountability18:21 The AI Mental Health Collective21:20 Responsible AI Integration23:07 Closing Advice and Where to Find Her
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  Defining the Boundaries of AI in Mental Health with Dr. Shannon Wiltsey Stirman 07.04.2026 26min

  In this episode of Beyond the Couch, Dr. Ernest Wayde interviews Dr. Shannon Wiltsey Stirman, a professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Stanford and co-director of the Center for Responsible and Effective AI Technology Enhancement for PTSD treatment (CREATE), discusses how large language models can support evidence-based mental health interventions, and can also be used to assist in training therapists through the use of simulated patients. Dr. Wiltsey Stirman notes that while AI can be a powerful tool for tasks like clinical scribing and reflection, it should supplement rather than replace human therapists, especially regarding complex diagnoses and high-risk scenarios. She highlights the necessity of AI literacy, urging therapists and organizations to prioritize transparency, privacy, and responsible implementation. Takeaways: AI Should Supplement, Not Replace Human Therapists Simulated Patients Offer Safe Practice for Clinicians AI Diagnostics and High-Risk Treatment Require Firm Boundaries Organizations Must Prioritize Transparency and Privacy Therapists Need to Increase Their AI Literacy Connect with Dr. Shannon Wiltsey Stirman Email: [email protected] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-wiltsey-stirman-3874056/ https://med.stanford.edu/fastlab.html https://create.stanford.edu/contact https://create.stanford.edu/contact Connect With Us https://www.waydeai.com/ https://www.facebook.com/waydeai https://www.linkedin.com/company/wayde-ai/ [email protected] Subcribe https://the-waydeai-brief.beehiiv.com/ Chapters: 00:00 Intro 00:35 Welcome and Guest Intro 02:15 Dr. Shannon Wiltsey Stirman Origin Story 04:54 Realistic AI Capabilities in Therapy Today 07:00 Meaningful AI Implementation in Evidence-Based Care 09:34 What People Get Wrong About AI Tools 12:57 Boundaries Between AI and Human Therapists 15:46 Safe AI Boundaries for Therapists 19:01 Organizational Implementation and Transparency 21:27 The CREATE Center at Stanford 25:06 Closing Advice and Where to Find Her
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  Understanding How Large Language Models (LLMs) Work with Dr. Ernest Wayde 17.03.2026 22min

  In this episode of Beyond the Couch, Dr. Ernest Wayde reveals the real mechanics behind large language models like ChatGPT, demystifying what happens inside these systems when you use them. Whether you're a psychologist or healthcare professional, understanding this process is crucial for responsible use and interpreting AI-generated information accurately. Takeaways: Fluency does not equal accuracy. AI operates through pattern matching, not reasoning. Training data bakes in human bias. The "fine-tuning" stage reflects human values. Context is limited to the current prompt. Accountability remains with the professional. Connect With Us https://www.waydeai.com/ https://www.facebook.com/waydeai https://www.linkedin.com/company/wayde-ai/ [email protected] Subcribe https://the-waydeai-brief.beehiiv.com/
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  AI Ethics, Responsibility, and the Role of Humans in the Age of AI with Dr. Joanna Bryson 10.03.2026 22min

  In this episode of Beyond the Couch, Dr. Ernest Wayde interviews Dr. Joanna Bryson, professor of Ethics and Technology in Berlin and advisor to organizations including the UN and EU, about what “AI ethics” really means. Dr. Bryson argues it’s not coherent to call AI itself ethical. She argues that the primary concern should be whether and how humans should build and deploy AI and how it may change societies. Dr. Bryson highlights recurring concerns like bias, but stresses broader failures around accountability, surveillance, deception, and weaponization, urging users to maintain agency, verify outputs, protect data, and avoid trusting AI. Takeaways: AI Itself Is Not Ethical—Humans Are Responsible Bias Is a Major Concern—but Not the Only One Accountability Must Start With Development The Information Age Demands Critical Thinking Learning and Adaptation Are Essential Connect with Dr. Joanna Bryson [email protected] https://www.hertie-school.org/en/who-we-are/profile/person/bryson Connect With Us https://www.waydeai.com/ https://www.facebook.com/waydeai https://www.linkedin.com/company/wayde-ai/ [email protected] Subcribe https://the-waydeai-brief.beehiiv.com/ Chapters: 00:00 What Is AI Ethics 00:23 Welcome and Guest Intro 02:06 Dr. Joanna Bryson Origin Story 05:38 From AI Research to Ethics 07:08 Ethical AI Misconceptions 09:02 Policy Failures and Liability 10:57 Beyond Bias Surveillance Risks 12:30 Everyday User Responsibility 15:23 AI and Mental Health Use 16:46 EU Rules and Bot Disclosure 17:51 Scams Surveillance and Freedom 20:30 Closing Advice and Where to Find Her
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  AI and Teens: Navigating Mental Health in the Digital Age with Dr. Caroline Figueroa 03.03.2026 30min

  In this episode of Beyond the Couch, Dr. Ernest Wayde engages with Dr. Caroline Figueroa, who discusses her extensive background in mental health, neuroscience, and AI. They explore how AI tools are being utilized by youth for emotional support, the implications for psychologists, and the importance of involving young people in the design and regulation of these technologies. The conversation highlights the need for responsible AI frameworks, discussing AI use with young people, and the challenges faced by mental health professionals. Takeaways: Many young people find AI chatbots helpful. Psychologists should ask about AI use in therapy. Some young people recognize AI's limitations. Involving youth in AI design is crucial. Banning AI for youth may not be effective. AI can support but shouldn't replace human interaction. Connect with Dr. Caroline Figueroa https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-figueroa-md-phd-85a11485/ https://www.commonwealthfund.org/person/caroline-figueroa https://www.risedigitalhealth.eu/ Connect With Us https://www.waydeai.com/ https://www.facebook.com/waydeai https://www.linkedin.com/company/wayde-ai/ [email protected] Subcribe https://the-waydeai-brief.beehiiv.com/
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  Wellness AI for College Student Wellbeing with Dr. Ashleigh Golden 24.02.2026 32min

  In this episode of Beyond the Couch, host Dr. Ernest Wayde sits down with Dr. Ashleigh Golden, a Stanford trained clinical psychologist and co-founder of WayHaven, to explore the transformative role of conversational AI in student wellness.Dr. Golden and Dr. Wayde discuss the upstream model of care: using AI not as a replacement for therapy, but as a proactive tool to help students build social emotional skills and navigate campus resources before they reach a clinical crisis. Dr. Golden emphasizes that while technology is evolving rapidly, the clinician must remain in the driver’s seat, using these tools to supplement evidence-based treatment and bridge the action implementation gap between sessions.TakeawaysWayhaven serves as a well-being coach for college students, addressing everyday challenges.AI tools like Wayhaven are not substitutes for clinical services but provide proactive support.Transparency about AI's capabilities and limitations is crucial for users.Clinicians must remain involved in the development of AI tools to ensure ethical use.Banning AI in mental health is not the solution; better safeguards are needed.Understanding the risks associated with AI usage is essential for clinicians.Collaboration between clinicians and AI developers can enhance mental health support.Connect With Dr. Ashleigh Goldenhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleigh-golden/https://www.wayhaven.com/Connect With Ushttps://www.waydeai.com/https://www.facebook.com/waydeaihttps://www.linkedin.com/company/wayde-ai/[email protected]://the-waydeai-brief.beehiiv.com/
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  What AI Is Doing to Us as Psychologists with Dr. Ernest Wayde 17.02.2026 12min

  In this episode, Dr. Ernest Wayde explores the integration of AI in psychology, discussing its practical applications, benefits, and challenges. He emphasizes the importance of ethical use, the impact on cognitive load, and the necessity of validation in AI outputs. The conversation highlights how AI can enhance efficiency in writing and decision-making while also stressing the need for critical thinking and professional responsibility in the face of rapidly evolving technology. Takeaways AI reduces cognitive load, allowing for more focus on judgment. Writing processes are transformed by AI, making it easier to start. Trust in AI outputs requires careful validation. Fluency in AI-generated content does not guarantee accuracy. AI redistributes cognitive effort but not accountability. Deliberate judgment is increasingly important in accelerated environments. Connect With Us https://www.waydeai.com/ https://www.facebook.com/waydeai https://www.linkedin.com/company/wayde-ai/ [email protected] Subcribe https://the-waydeai-brief.beehiiv.com/
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  Will AI Replace Your Therapist? The Future of Mental Health Care 03.02.2026 31min

  In this episode, Dr. Ernest Wayde interviews Dr. Vaile Wright, the inaugural senior director of the Office of Healthcare Innovation at the American Psychological Association. They discuss the intersection of AI and psychology, exploring how technology can improve mental health care, the hesitancy among psychologists to adopt AI tools, and the importance of maintaining human connection in therapy. Dr. Wright shares insights on the current landscape of AI applications in mental health, the role of policy and regulation, and the guidance provided by the APA for psychologists navigating this evolving field. Takeaways The future of therapy may involve integrating AI responsibly. Human connection remains essential in therapeutic settings. Policy and regulation around AI in psychology are still developing. Psychologists need to educate themselves about AI tools. AI can help fill gaps in mental health care access. Curiosity about AI can lead to innovative applications in practice. How APA is providing help to psychologists navigate AI use. Connect with Dr. Vaile Wright Website: apa.org Email: [email protected] LinkedIn : www.linkedin.com/in/c-vaile-wright-ph-d-599000b8
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  When Chatbots Become “Best Friends”: Clinical Implications with Dr. Don Grant 20.01.2026 47min

  In this episode, Dr. Ernest Wayde interviews Dr. Don Grant, a media psychologist, about the intersection of AI and mental health. They discuss the implications of AI on socialization, the rise of chatbots, and the potential dangers of relying on AI for mental health support. Dr. Grant emphasizes the importance of understanding technology as a tool, the need for parents and clinicians to engage with children about their use of AI, and the responsibilities that come with it. Takeaways • AI has been embedded in many platforms for a long time, influencing user behavior. • Chatbots can provide support but are not substitutes for professional mental health care. • The availability of chatbots raises concerns about misinformation and lack of accountability. • Parents should engage with their children about their use of AI and chatbots. • Clinicians must assess if their clients are using chatbots and understand their impact. • AI can create a false sense of companionship and validation for users. • AI is a tool that should be used responsibly, especially in mental health contexts. Connect with Dr. Don Grant Email: [email protected] Website
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  Navigating AI in Psychology: A New Era 13.01.2026 14min

  In this episode, Dr. Ernest Wayde discusses the intersection of AI and psychology, emphasizing the importance of understanding AI's limitations and the irreplaceable aspects of human psychological expertise. He explores the therapeutic relationship, highlighting the differences between human and AI interactions, and introduces the WAYDE AI Three Questions Assessment to help psychologists building awareness and make informed decisions about AI development related to their practice. The conversation aims to foster clarity and agency among psychologists as they navigate the evolving landscape of AI in mental health care. Key takeaways include:• AI cannot replace the irreducible core of psychological expertise. • A real therapeutic relationship is a mutual two-way process. • AI treats you as an object to be optimized, not a subject to be understood. • AI can simulate empathy, but it can't hold responsibility. • Educating clients about AI vs human therapy is crucial. • AI can help clinicians reduce administrative load. • Emotional solipsism can arise from AI interactions. • We need to talk about how to think about AI clearly. Resources & Links Mentioned:• First Therapy Chatbot Trial Yields Mental Health Benefits | Dartmouth • The Story of ELIZA: The AI That Fooled the World • The Wayde AI Brief Connect With Us • https://www.waydeai.com/ • https://www.facebook.com/waydeai • https://www.linkedin.com/company/wayde-ai/ • [email protected]