In today's rapidly evolving AI landscape, an increasing number of couples are turning to ChatGPT as a neutral mediator in their arguments. Faced with the high cost of therapy, some couples are choosing to leverage this intelligent chatbot during conflicts, seeking relationship advice and gaining self-reflection.
Abella Bala, a 36-year-old influencer manager in Los Angeles, and Dom Versaci, a 29-year-old data scientist, exemplify this trend. They've been using ChatGPT to resolve disputes for six months. Abella jokingly says, "ChatGPT saved our relationship, until it started siding with Dom." For a monthly fee of $20, they believe the AI assistant helps them view issues from new perspectives without the pressure of arguing. Dom adds, "Therapy is so expensive, sometimes you just need a neutral third party to tell you who's freaking out."
While AI can offer some assistance, it's not always entirely reliable. When Abella and Dom faced a relationship crisis, ChatGPT unexpectedly suggested an "open relationship" or giving Dom a "pass" to date other women. Faced with these suggestions, the couple found it hilarious and ultimately forgot their initial argument.
Similarly, 35-year-old Grace Mijoo also uses AI to navigate challenges in her relationship with her 40-year-old boyfriend, Eric. She says, "I tell ChatGPT about our situation and provide our conversation logs." Through these interactions, ChatGPT helps them reflect on their communication habits, particularly the frequency of checking in on each other.
Social media influencer Catherine Goetze also finds AI helpful in handling minor disagreements. She recalls a recent argument with her boyfriend, after which she talked to ChatGPT at home and received a humorous response: "You were hungry, you hadn't eaten in an hour, you were just hangry," which helped them quickly resolve the dispute.
Although many couples find AI helpful in communication and conflict resolution, mental health consultant Ashley Williams points out that AI lacks the expertise of professionals and raises concerns about data privacy. She emphasizes, "There's not enough research to prove ChatGPT's advice is reliable, and how much personal information are you disclosing to the AI, and where is that information stored?"
Despite these concerns, AI's 24/7 availability and unbiased nature attract more and more people. According to a February 2025 study by Hatch Data and Mental Health, many prefer ChatGPT's relationship advice, finding it more positive than written guidance from human therapists.
Even after a breakup, single woman Grace Clarke found solace in AI. She requested direct and specific feedback from ChatGPT, calling it more effective than a human therapist in helping her recover from heartbreak.
Key takeaways:
🌟 ChatGPT acts as a "neutral referee" in couples' arguments, helping them find solutions.
💬 People use AI to reflect on communication habits and relationship patterns, improving self-awareness.
🔒 Mental health experts caution that AI advice should be treated cautiously, and privacy protection is crucial.