As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to evolve, couples are increasingly turning to it for help in resolving their disputes. Is AI, like ChatGPT, the future of relationship therapy? A growing number of couples seem to think so.
While technology has long played a role in improving our personal lives, it’s now branching into more unexpected areas—like relationship counseling. One particularly surprising use has emerged with ChatGPT, where some couples are using the AI to help mediate conflicts. From minor household arguments to deeper emotional disagreements, people are turning to this tool for advice and perspective. But does it really work? Is ChatGPT replacing traditional therapy? The answers might surprise you.
AI Steps In During Relationship Disputes
Imagine a tense argument about something as mundane as the dishwasher. It escalates into something larger, touching on finances and personal frustrations. In the past, such a conversation might have ended in silence or even worse, hurtful words. But in the case of singer Lily Allen, she’s found an unusual ally in resolving these disputes: ChatGPT. After a heated exchange with her husband, Lily Allen picks up her phone and turns to the AI for help. She typed a request: “Write me a long message about a fight that started with the dishwasher and ended with a conversation about our finances.”
Within seconds, the AI generated a thoughtful response that helped de-escalate the situation. Lily is not alone in using this method; many others are discovering the benefits of using AI to help manage and resolve conflicts. In fact, some couples claim that ChatGPT has helped them communicate more effectively and avoid some of the pitfalls that come with arguments.
Trusting AI Over Therapists?
This new phenomenon is gaining traction, as evidenced by a recent study that surveyed over 800 people in the U.S. about their experiences using AI in relationship conflicts. Interestingly, the results revealed that many individuals found ChatGPT’s responses in scenarios that resemble therapy sessions to be more helpful than those given by human therapists. “ChatGPT’s responses in psychotherapy scenarios are often rated higher than those written by human therapists,” the researchers noted.
It’s clear that many couples feel more comfortable turning to an AI for advice than to a professional therapist. While some might find this surprising, it’s not hard to see why—AI provides a neutral, no-judgment space where people can express their thoughts without the pressure of traditional therapy. Plus, it’s quick, accessible, and significantly more affordable than therapy sessions.
A Cost-Effective Solution for Conflict Resolution
Take the example of one couple interviewed by the New York Post in March. Abella, one of the partners, explained how ChatGPT “saved their relationship.” With regular use, the couple found that the AI was incredibly effective at diffusing arguments. “Neither of us wants to argue with a robot,” Abella joked. The couple subscribes to a premium version of ChatGPT for $20 a month—far cheaper than a single therapy session.
The convenience of having a reliable tool to turn to during stressful moments, combined with the lower cost, is appealing to many. As AI therapy tools continue to develop, they may offer a sustainable alternative for couples who struggle with the time and cost of traditional therapy.
ChatGPT’s growing role in relationship management reflects the larger shift toward technology offering solutions in unexpected places. While some may still prefer in-person therapy, many couples are embracing the AI’s neutral perspective, using it as a powerful tool to help navigate the complex emotional landscape of relationships. Whether it’s helping to process difficult emotions or just offering a sounding board, AI might just be the future of conflict resolution.
