Similarities Between ChatGPT and Therapists

Similarities Between ChatGPT and Therapists

I used to hate going for therapy.

Now I’m starting to hate using ChatGPT.

If your prompt doesn’t give ChatGPT clear boundaries, you’ll think you accidentally booked a therapy session.

This is why I think ChatGPT and therapists belong to the same kingdom.

And it’s definitely not Animalia.

You have a simple, burning question:

ChatGPT, my head is aching, what should I do?

ChatGPT: So headaches can be caused by several factors…

goes on listing 1, 2, 3 like a PowerPoint presentation

If you have a headache, you can try taking painkillers.

Here are different painkillers and when it’s best to use each…

Damn it AI.

You could have just said take painkillers and go.

Ask the same question to a therapist:

Therapist: So, let me understand your background first…

You said you’re the last born in a family of three?

Are you single or in a relationship?

Damn.

How are these questions even remotely connected to my headache?

Take painkillers is the answer.

And that’s when I realized… the similarities are too many.

1. They refuse to give a straight answer like it’s illegal

You: Should I quit my job?

ChatGPT: It depends on several factors such as financial stability, career goals, and personal fulfillment…

Therapist: How does the idea of quitting your job make you feel?

Feel??

I’m asking for a resignation strategy, not emotional character development.

2. They turn your small problem into a Netflix series

You: I had a small argument with my friend.

ChatGPT: Conflict can arise due to communication styles, emotional triggers, past experiences…

Therapist: Tell me about your childhood friendships.

WHY are we suddenly in episode 7??

It was a 5-minute argument. Not a documentary.

3. They answer your question with another question like it’s a sport

You: Why am I always tired?

ChatGPT: Can you tell me more about your sleep patterns?

Therapist: What do you think is making you feel tired?

If I knew…

I wouldn’t be here using data bundles or paying session fees.

4. They stay calm while your life is clearly collapsing

You: Everything is falling apart.

ChatGPT: I understand that must feel overwhelming. Let’s break it down step by step.

Therapist: That sounds really difficult. Sit with that feeling.

Sit with it??

My life is doing backflips and you want me to sit??

5. They give you options like they’re afraid of being sued

You: Should I text her?

ChatGPT: You could text her, wait, or reflect on your intentions first.

Therapist: What outcome are you hoping for?

Outcome??

I’m hoping she replies. That’s the entire business model.

At this point, I don’t know who’s worse.

6. They both love disclaimers like it’s part of the job description

ChatGPT: This is not medical advice.

Therapist: I can’t tell you what to do, but I can guide you.

Guide me where??

I already know where I am. I’m confused, that’s why I came here.

7. They make you explain things you already explained

You: I’m stressed because of work.

ChatGPT: Can you clarify what specifically about work is stressing you?

Therapist: When did you first notice this stress?

I just said work.

Work is the stress.

The stress is working overtime.

8. They both make simple decisions feel like life strategy meetings

You: Should I sleep or keep working?

ChatGPT: It depends on your priorities, deadlines, and overall well-being…

Therapist: What does rest mean to you?

Rest??

It means closing my eyes and not scrolling tiktok, viewing whatsapp messages or emails. Damn.

Why is this a philosophical discussion?

At this point…

I don’t even want answers anymore.