3206: Is AI the Answer to America’s Mental-Health Crisis?

3206: Is AI the Answer to America’s Mental-Health Crisis?

Author: Tech News Briefing September 12, 2026 Duration: 19:15

The millions of Americans living with mental illness—as well as people dealing with life’s everyday stresses—often struggle to see a therapist when they need one. That’s a big reason why many people have started turning to AI tools such as ChatGPT for emotional support. But as a number of high-profile lawsuits show, that can sometimes lead to devastating outcomes. Companies creating AI for mental health say they can do better. Today, we’re bringing Tech News Briefing listeners Part 1 of “The AI Therapist,” a special What’s News series we think you’ll enjoy. In this episode, host Alex Ossola and WSJ audio producer Pierre Bienaimé explore the growing field of these purpose-built tools, and how people are already using them.


The AI Therapist: A WSJ Podcast Series


Further Reading:


Chatbots Are Replacing Therapists With Little Scientific Evidence Behind Them

Teens Seek Mental-Health Help From Chatbots. That’s Dangerous, Says New Study.

How AI Advice Is Undermining Eating-Disorder Therapy

When There’s No School Counselor, There’s a Bot


Sign up for the WSJ's free Technology newsletter.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.


Keeping up with the relentless pace of innovation can feel like a full-time job. Tech News Briefing cuts through the noise, delivering clear, concise updates on the stories that actually matter. Each episode focuses on the developments shaping our digital world, from major corporate shifts and groundbreaking hardware launches to the subtle policy changes that affect how we all live and work online. You’ll hear straightforward reporting and analysis, presented without unnecessary jargon or hype. This daily podcast is designed for anyone who needs to stay informed but doesn’t have hours to sift through endless feeds. It’s a direct line to the essential information, helping you understand the context behind the headlines. Tune in for a focused, efficient briefing that respects your time while deepening your grasp of the technology landscape. The consistent, reliable format makes it an easy addition to your morning routine, ensuring you start the day informed rather than overwhelmed.
Author: Language: en-gb Episodes: 50

Tech News Briefing
Podcast Episodes
3180: TNB Tech Minute: Software and Chip Stocks Surge [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:09
Plus: Best Buy raises outlook following better-than-expected second-quarter results. And Cisco gave its 90,000 employees their own AI agent. Julie Chang hosts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.co…
3174: Nvidia’s Strategy to Make Sure the AI Boom Doesn’t Go Bust [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 11:40
Nvidia will report earnings this Wednesday amid growing challenges for the AI industry, including the financial vulnerability of some of its biggest customers. WSJ’s David Uberti breaks down what the chip giant is doing…