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This event is part of a series of Psychology seminars that regularly occurs during the Autumn and Spring terms.

The increasing demand for accessible and scalable mental health and relationship support has driven growing interest in artificial intelligence (AI)–based interventions. This presentation examines how conversational agents such as Amanda, a GPT-4-powered chatbot, can serve as digital allies in promoting individual and relational well-being.

Evidence from experimental and clinical studies demonstrates that AI chatbots can deliver empathic, helpful, and acceptable therapeutic exchanges comparable to those of trained professionals. Findings from randomised controlled trials and feasibility studies indicate significant improvements in depression, anxiety, functional impairment, and relationship outcomes, alongside strong therapeutic alliance ratings and high user satisfaction. Qualitative analyses further reveal nuanced perspectives from young people and therapists, highlighting both the promise and the challenges of implementing AI-driven interventions—particularly in relation to safeguarding, personalisation, and risk detection.

The presentation concludes by situating AI chatbots as complementary tools within the continuum of mental health and relational care, emphasising their role in enhancing, rather than replacing, human support systems.