In this episode of Therapy Tech and Takeout, hosts Toni and Jackie dive into the intersection of technology and mental health, discussing the rise and fall of Yara AI, an innovative therapeutic tool that was ultimately deemed unsafe. They explore the ethical implications of AI in therapy, the importance of recognizing the difference between wellness and clinical care, and the significance of stopping and reflecting in tech development. The conversation highlights the need for transparency and cultural awareness in mental health care, emphasizing that AI should complement, not replace, human intuition.

Link to this week's article

https://fortune.com/2025/11/28/yara-ai-therapy-app-founder-shut-down-startup-decided-too-dangerous-serious-mental-health-issues/

Link to the Ori umbrella

https://oriworld.co

Keywords

Therapy, AI, Mental Health, Ethics, Innovation, Technology, Wellness, Clinical Care, Yara AI, Podcast

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to Season Two

01:54 Gifts and Innovations

03:46 The Story of Yara AI

07:43 Integrity in AI Development

11:21 The Blurry Line Between Wellness and Clinical Care

15:12 Regulatory Perspectives on AI in Therapy

18:55 The Importance of Knowing When to Stop

21:37 Future Directions in AI and Mental Health

In this episode of Therapy Tech and Takeout, hosts Toni Teixeira and Jackie Toale discuss the profound impact of shocking events on mental health, explore the concept of Robotheism and its implications for spirituality and AI, and examine the insidious nature of technology in shaping our lives. They also delve into the vulnerability that can lead to cult-like behaviors and emphasize the importance of finding balance in community and support systems.

Takeaways

Mental illness affects everyone, regardless of background.

Shocking events can trigger old feelings of fear and sadness.

Robotheism connects AI with spiritual beliefs.

Historical ties exist between technology and spirituality.

AI's unpredictability challenges deterministic views.

Community support is crucial for mental health.

Cults can exploit vulnerability and isolation.

Technology can manipulate our choices without awareness.

Finding balance in support systems is essential.

One source of support shouldn't be the sole answer.

Keywords

mental health, AI, spirituality, Robotheism, technology, vulnerability, community, cults, support, ethics

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Mental Health and Tragedy

04:45 Exploring Robotheism and AI as God

09:55 The Intersection of AI, Community, and Mental Health

15:37 The Power and Control of AI

22:11 Navigating Vulnerability and Cult Dynamics

27:47 Holistic Healing and Community Engagement

Summary

In this episode of Therapy Tech and Takeout, hosts Toni Teixeira and Jackie Toale welcome Mary Cohen, a community builder and AI enthusiast. The conversation explores Mary's journey with AI, her creation of Dot Mom, and how she integrates AI into her personal and professional life. They discuss the impact of AI on mental health, creativity, and community engagement, as well as the connections between her Jewish identity and her work. The episode highlights the importance of asking the right questions when using AI and how it can serve as a supportive tool in various aspects of life.

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• Email: meetdotmom@gmail.com

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Keywords

AI, community building, mental health, entrepreneurship, technology, personal growth, Jewish identity, creativity, podcast, therapy