Champaign Voices

Chatbots Begin Offering Therapy Vibes; Actual Therapists Request Boundaries

Published: April 29, 2026

AI companions marketed emotional support as clinicians warned about dependency, privacy, and the difference between comfort and care. What do you think?

“My dog keeps secrets better than a server.”
Dale Evilsizor, Man Who Talks to His Dog Instead
“If the bot helps at 2 a.m., okay. If it bills my data, no.”
Karen Pence, Waiting List for a Human Therapist
“I don't want therapy from a toaster.”
Ron Bodey, Feelings Avoidance Professional