Thriveworks

09/25/2025

Could love with AI ever feel real? According to a new survey, about 1 in 5 AI users believe it can be. Some people are already using chatbots romantically.

Our therapist Alexandra Cromer told Newsweek that while feelings are valid, AI isn’t sentient—real romantic relationships are about two autonomous people choosing each other, with unique differences and influences.

There are risks too: depending on AI for emotional connection might lead to isolation, depression, or drift from meaningful human bonds.

You can read the full article here:

Roughly 8% said their chatbot expressed love unprompted, and 42% are concerned that AI psychosis could affect them or someone they know.

09/23/2025

Current news and events often mean we're unwittingly exposed to violent content online, which can lead to desensitization. Thriveworks clinician Holly Humphreys recently spoke to CBS19 News: Charlottesville News First about the impact of this repeated exposure, particularly how it manifests in young people.

“With younger kids especially, it may manifest as stomachaches or headaches, body aches and that sort of thing because they don’t know it’s just churning inside of them,” said Humphreys.

You can watch the interview here:

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (CBS19 NEWS) -- After recent violent news events, graphic videos have spread widely on social media. Many users say they came across Charlie Kirk’s assassination video without even

09/12/2025

As Cosmopolitan reports, music artists are helping drive the shift toward normalizing therapy—several even thanked their therapists on stage at the VMAs.

We’re thrilled to see Thriveworks’ Pulse on Mental Health survey featured, which found that nearly half of U.S. adults plan to start seeing a therapist in the next year.

Read the full article here:

Here’s why Rosé and Ariana Grande’s therapy acknowledgments at the 2025 VMAs were so significant.

09/05/2025

Could you be scrolling your way into the “Seasonal Sads”?

As fall brings shorter days and cooler temps, many of us turn to social media—but too much scrolling can actually make symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) worse.

Thriveworks clinician Dayton Olsen recently spoke to WDBJ7 about ways to combat SAD, including consistent sleep, planned outdoor time, and building real connections over endless scrolling.

Watch the full interview here:

Fall is right around the corner, which means people can expect a change in temperature and shorter days, but they may be more likely to isolate themselves inside their homes.

09/02/2025

Meeting new people, speaking up in groups, or attending events can feel overwhelming if you have social anxiety.

Thriveworks clinician Whitney McSparran recently spoke with TIME on what not to say, and what is more helpful. Phrases like “just relax” or “you’re so quiet” often do more harm than good. Instead, validation and empathy—like “I know this is tough, and I’m here with you”—make a real difference.

You can read the full piece here:

Well-intentioned phrases can actually set your friend back.

08/27/2025

llinois has become the third state to ban the use of AI in therapy—reminding us that mental health care is, at its heart, human.

In a conversation with WBBM News, Thriveworks clinician Christina Geiselhart shared why therapy works best when it’s centered on people, not programs. Still, she notes that AI can play a valuable supporting role behind the scenes—helping with tasks like scheduling or documentation, so therapists can focus more fully on clients.

Listen to her perspective here:

Earlier this month, Governor J.B. Pritzker signed an act into law that bans the use of AI in therapy and psychotherapy services. Now local mental health professionals are weighing in.

08/25/2025

When you’re seeking therapy, you want someone who truly understands you.

That’s why at Thriveworks, our therapists live and work in the communities they serve—sharing the same culture, context, and challenges. It’s one of the reasons 96% of Thriveworks clients say they feel understood by their therapist.

In our latest blog, Chief Growth Officer Michael Midgette explores why community-based care matters, and how pairing local expertise with national infrastructure helps deliver the best outcomes.

Read more here:

Learn why Thriveworks' community-centered approach works. Our clinicians live locally, understand your community, and deliver personalized care nationwide.

08/22/2025

How do we make the biggest impact in mental health? By taking care of the clinicians who deliver it.

Our Chief Strategy Officer, Jenny Welling-Palmer, spoke with Becker’s Behavioral Health about Thriveworks’ priorities for the months ahead: reducing friction in provider workflows, strengthening collaboration, and expanding our impact through partnerships with health systems and primary care.

Read more here:

In the latter half of 2025, behavioral health leaders are concentrating on three pivotal themes — expanding access, embracing innovation and shoring up financial and operational resilience — as they strive to deliver more equitable, efficient and patient-centered care.  Editor’s note: Respons...

08/20/2025

Ever feel like you’re hearing therapy words—like gaslighting, triggered, or toxic—everywhere these days? You’re not imagining it. 95% of Americans say they encounter therapy-related terms in daily life.

While this can help raise awareness and reduce stigma, our research shows these words are often misused—and sometimes even weaponized.

We’d love to hear from you: Which “therapy words” do you notice most often (or misused!) in everyday conversations?

👉 See the full survey results here:

Thriveworks research shows most people misuse popular mental health terms. Experts break down what narcissist, trauma, and gaslighting actually mean—and why it matters.

07/31/2025

Parents are noticing a concerning trend of their kids turning to AI for emotional support.

A Norton study revealed that 28% of parents have seen their children use AI tools to cope emotionally. At Thriveworks, we’ve seen this trend echoed in our therapy rooms, too.

In this new Newsweek piece, Thriveworks clinician Kathryn Cross shares why human connection is essential, especially for children navigating complex emotional needs.

Read more here: https://www.newsweek.com/newly-third-kids-now-look-ai-emotional-support-2102492

07/29/2025

A recent report found people in wealthier countries are often less happy than those in developing nations.

Our Chief Counseling Officer, Ryan Culkin, shared his perspective on why in this article with WORLD, including the role that community plays in our emotional well-being.

Check out the article here:

A study shows people in developing countries are flourishing at higher rates

07/24/2025

Thriveworks was just named Best Therapy with Insurance for anger management by Verywell.

This marks our fourth Verywell Mind “Best Of” award in just two months, reinforcing the impact our services are making across a range of needs. We’re truly honored to be recognized.

Explore the full list here:

Anger management therapy and courses may help you improve self-control, handle impulses, and focus on your emotions. Here are the best anger management resources you can access online.