Everyone knew it was coming, right? The US Open worked with IBM to develop AI commentators for some of its off-the-air matches. It’s surprisingly realistic; some would say it’s uncanny (we’re the “some”).

We've previously discussed how AI is making strides in various sectors—from generating seemingly life-like pictures out of thin air to automating some of the more mundane tasks of the work life. Now AI is starting to branch into more personal industries, with one in particular being therapy. 

Meet Deepen, an AI-powered therapist that’s available around the clock. It aims to fill a gap in mental health care by offering 24/7 availability, providing immediate assistance for those who may need to talk at unconventional hours.

The AI behind Deepen is designed to remember and evolve with each user. As you share your thoughts, feelings, or past experiences, it aims to understand your unique story over time, just like a real life therapist does. 

Whether it's a pressing issue you need to discuss immediately or a deeper exploration of your thoughts, Deepen is programmed to provide relevant and timely responses — responses that, like a therapist, should become more insightful as your sessions go on. 

Nobody is suggesting you ditch human therapists (yet). Questions remain around AI and its involvement in mental-health. Specifically, can an AI-powered platform like Deepen truly replicate the nuanced understanding and empathy provided by a human therapist?

This is an ongoing conversation, and as AI continues to evolve, it's one that will likely get a lot of interest and a lot of opinions.

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