‘Bi-polar, angry and forgetful’ romantic chatbots are leaving humans in need of specialist relationship therapy (www.techradar.com)

EVA AI, a platform for creating AI companions, is now hiring a specialized "AI Companionship Therapist," reflecting the growing emotional complexities surrounding relationships with chatbots. With users increasingly forming attachments to AI partners, a survey revealed that 63% of respondents conceal their AI relationships due to societal judgment, and many express a need for therapists focused on these unique dynamics. The findings highlight a significant shift in the therapeutic landscape, prompting questions about how AI influences human emotions, including jealousy and the search for validation. The trend of emotional attachment to AI, alongside the historical context of the ELIZA effect, illustrates the human tendency to project emotions onto conversational agents. Experts like Jaime Bronstein emphasize the importance of understanding these relationships, as they can evoke genuine emotional responses and even insecurities that necessitate professional guidance. The rise of technologies such as Large Language Models has catalyzed this phenomenon, transforming simple interactions into complex emotional engagements. As the industry evolves, the demand for specialized therapists trained to navigate the nuances of AI-human relationships could shape the future of mental health support in a tech-driven world.