A recent study from Curtin University indicates a significant shift in public attitudes toward AI-driven chatbot therapists, particularly in the wake of the rise of generative artificial intelligence in 2023. The research highlights how users now regard these chatbots as credible tools for mental health support rather than mere digital gimmicks. This shift is influencing the development of a new wellbeing chatbot named Monti, designed to facilitate safe and reflective emotional exploration.
The study analyzed data gathered before and after the introduction of ChatGPT, revealing a marked preference for generative AI chatbots. Participants appreciated their conversational style and perceived understanding compared to earlier, rule-based models, which often appeared repetitive and less engaging. Professor Warren Mansell, a lead researcher from the Curtin School of Population Health, noted that 2023 represented a pivotal moment in public perception of AI-supported wellbeing tools.
“As generative AI entered everyday life, people began to view chatbot therapists less as gimmicks and more as potentially credible tools for self-reflection,” Professor Mansell stated. He emphasized the growing demand for mental health support, which continues to exceed available resources. According to Mansell, responsibly designed AI tools can help bridge this gap, provided they are developed with care, evidence, and a focus on user needs.
Empowering Self-Reflection through AI
The research included interviews with users who highlighted the value of a curious questioning style in these chatbots. This approach encourages users to explore their own goals and challenges, generating fresh perspectives that align with the principles of perceptual control theory (PCT), which underpins the research team’s work. Monti’s guiding motto, “Notice More, Explore Further, Think Wiser,” reflects its intended role as a catalyst for curiosity and clarity, rather than a replacement for human interaction.
The authors of the study stressed that innovation in this field must prioritize evidence-based design, transparency, safety monitoring, and a deep understanding of user needs. These guiding principles are shaping the next phase of Monti’s development, with plans to introduce it to Australian universities by mid-2026.
The findings suggest that well-designed AI chatbots can meaningfully empower individuals to reflect on their concerns and seek human assistance when necessary. The study, titled “A Rule-Based Conversational Agent for Mental Health and Well-Being in Young People: Formative Case Series During the Rise of Generative AI,” has been published in JMIR Formative Research and is available online.
As the landscape of mental health support continues to evolve, the integration of AI technologies like Monti may play an essential role in addressing the growing mental health crisis, offering users new tools for reflection and self-discovery.
