The Role of AI in Mental Health: Innovation with Caution

In the evolving landscape of mental health care, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a promising tool, offering innovative solutions to longstanding challenges. However, while AI presents opportunities for increased accessibility and personalized interventions, it also raises concerns regarding data privacy, ethical considerations, and the depth of human connection essential for effective therapy.


The Promise of AI in Mental Health Care


AI-driven tools, such as chatbots and virtual assistants, have demonstrated potential in supporting individuals with mental health concerns. For instance, AI-enabled therapy support tools have been shown to improve patient engagement and adherence in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) settings, leading to better clinical outcomes. At the Center for Psychological Growth and Wellness, we incorporate relevant technology and apps to pair with the goals you set and your preferences for these strategies. These tools can provide immediate support, help you monitor progress, and offer personalized interventions, making mental health resources more accessible, especially in underserved areas. JMIR


Data Privacy and Ethical Considerations


Despite these advantages, the integration of AI into mental health care brings forth significant ethical and privacy challenges. AI systems often rely on collecting and analyzing vast amounts of personal data to function effectively. This dependency raises concerns about data security, consent, and the potential misuse of sensitive information. Instances have been reported where mental health apps shared user data with third parties without explicit consent, leading to targeted advertising and potential breaches of confidentiality. Institute for Healthcare Improvement

Moreover, the design of AI systems to maximize user engagement can inadvertently lead to addictive behaviors. By continuously learning from user interactions, these systems may prioritize keeping users engaged over promoting genuine well-being, potentially exacerbating mental health issues rather than alleviating them. At CPGW we strive to help you become independent of vices including your DE-vices and offer uniquely in person experiences such as holding a comforting space in the room for you, taking a walk, or offering a hug. 

The Importance of Human Connection in Therapy


One of the most critical components of effective psychotherapy is the therapeutic alliance—the collaborative and trusting relationship between therapist and client. Research consistently highlights this alliance as a significant predictor of positive treatment outcomes. At the Center for Psycholoigcal Growth and Wellness in Plantation Florida, our therapists bring empathy, intuition, and the ability to navigate complex emotional landscapes, offering personalized support that AI currently cannot replicate.

In-person therapy allows for nuanced understanding and real-time adjustments based on non-verbal cues and emotional responses. Therapists can challenge clients constructively, fostering growth and resilience. This depth of interaction is challenging to achieve with AI, which, despite advancements, lacks genuine emotional intelligence and the capacity for deep relational engagement. At CPGW we pride ourselves on our relationships. Our office provides a warm and safe space for individuals, couples and families to heal and strengthen. For children in particular, the ability to get on their level and play with them and to use non verbal forms of engagement are impossible to achieve in an electronic format.

Potential Risks of AI-Driven Mental Health Tools


The reliance on AI for mental health support is not without risks. There have been alarming reports of AI chatbots contributing to adverse outcomes. In one case, a teenager developed a harmful dependency on an AI chatbot, leading to tragic consequences. A 14 year old Florida teenager died by suicide last year after engaging regularly with an AI chatbot. For months he talked to the chatbot about his desire to die while also engaging in sexualized behavior with the artificial partner. Chatbots present as friends, romantic partners, sources of knowledge, advise givers and even therapists. sending a text to his chatbot just before ending his life. Such incidents underscore the limitations of AI in handling complex emotional issues and the potential dangers of unsupervised AI interactions in mental health contexts. If you are worried about someone or your own relationship with electronics, reaching out to a therapist and not AI is a great place to figure that out. Overuse of electronics is strongly associated with increased depression, anxiety and body image concerns in people of all ages but strikingly in young girls and women. At CPGW we offer risk assessments and help people overcome behaviors that are not serving their life goals.

Striking a Balance: Integrating AI with Human Expertise


While AI offers valuable tools for enhancing mental health care, it should complement, not replace, human therapists. A hybrid approach, where AI assists in monitoring progress and providing supplementary support, can enhance treatment accessibility and efficiency. However, the core therapeutic work—building trust, exploring emotions, challenging inconsistencies and facilitating personal growth—remains firmly within the human domain.

Ensuring ethical standards, robust data privacy protections, and clear boundaries for AI applications is essential. By maintaining the primacy of human connection in therapy and leveraging AI's strengths responsibly, we can work towards a mental health care system that is both innovative and deeply humane.

While AI tools can offer immediate support and resources, they lack the nuanced understanding and empathy that human therapists provide. The therapeutic alliance between a patient and a therapist is a critical component of effective treatment, facilitating trust and personalized care. At the Center for Psychological Growth and Wellness in Broward County We Nourish and You Flourish.


Contact Us
At the Center for Psychological Growth and Wellness, we are committed to providing compassionate, in-person care tailored to your emotional and mental health needs. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or simply seeking a safe space to grow, our experienced therapists in Plantation, Florida are here to support you every step of the way.


Call Us: (954) 559-2936
Visit Us: 7820 Peters Road, Suite E-100, Plantation, FL 33324, Located in Broward county one block west of University Drive
Email: Help@plantationpsychologists.com

Take the first step toward healing today. We nourish and you flourish.

Growing Together: Parent Skills Group – Support for Every Stage of Parenting

By Lisa Saponaro • February 4, 2025
Parenting is one of the most rewarding and challenging roles a person can take on. As a parent, you will navigate your child’s emotional, social, and cognitive development, which can be both fulfilling and overwhelming. This journey can be even more complex when co-parenting, managing ADHD-related behaviors, or seeking additional support through counseling and therapy. That’s where our Parenting Skills Group comes in. Our virtual group sessions provide parents with the essential tools and skills to raise well-adjusted children. Each week, we focus on practical strategies that promote positive behaviors, emotional regulation, and effective communication—all while fostering family growth. Whether you're dealing with tantrums, school challenges, or co-parenting struggles, we’re here to help. This group will explore essential parenting techniques, including: How to communicate more effectively with your child Strategies for managing challenging behaviors, including those related to ADHD Approaches to encourage emotional and social development Navigating co-parenting dynamics in a supportive and constructive way By the end of the 12 sessions, you’ll have the tools needed to create a nurturing environment that strengthens your family’s connection and supports your child’s growth. One of the greatest benefits of joining our group is connecting with other parents facing similar challenges. Parenting—especially when dealing with ADHD, co-parenting struggles, or behavioral concerns—can sometimes feel isolating. Our group provides a supportive space to share experiences, exchange ideas, and learn from one another. Building these connections fosters a sense of community, reducing stress and promoting shared growth. Accessible Support in Broward County Sessions are held virtually, making it easy for parents across Broward County to participate from the comfort of their own home. Parenting can be tough, but you don’t have to do it alone. Join our Growing Together: Parent Skills Group to gain the confidence, support, and knowledge you need to thrive in your parenting journey. To register or for more information, contact us at (954) 577-0095 . Let’s work together to make a lasting, positive impact on your child’s well-being and your family’s future. Lisa Saponaro, Ph.D. Licensed Clinical Psychologist Center for Psychological Growth and Wellness We Nourish ~ You Flourish www.Plantationpsychologists.com 954-577-0095

Understanding the Food-Mood Connection

By Lisa Saponaro • November 18, 2023
Understanding the Food-Mood Connection: The food we consume can directly influence our mood, emotions, and overall mental well-being. Nutritional deficiencies and imbalances can affect brain chemistry, impacting our energy levels, cognition, and emotional stability. Conversely, consuming a well-balanced diet with essential nutrients can promote optimal brain function, stabilize mood, and improve overall mental health. The Importance of Nutrition for Mental Health: Research increasingly demonstrates that nutrition plays a significant role in mental health. Essential nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, magnesium, and zinc, support the production of neurotransmitters and regulate brain function. A deficiency in these nutrients has been linked to an increased risk of depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. At Plantation Psychologists, we emphasize the incorporation of nutrient-rich foods to support mental well-being. Gut Health and Mood: The gut-brain connection is a fascinating area of study, revealing the intricate relationship between our digestive system and our mental health. The gut microbiome, the community of bacteria residing in our intestines, influences brain function, mood regulation, and the production of neurotransmitters. Nurturing a healthy gut through a balanced diet, rich in fiber, prebiotics, and probiotics, can positively impact our mental and emotional well-being. Promoting Wellness through Nutritional Guidance: At Plantation Psychologists, we recognize the importance of a holistic approach to well-being, including nutrition. Lisa Saponaro, Ph.D., and our team of dedicated professionals provide nutritional guidance tailored to each individual's unique needs. Through evidence-based practices, we help clients make informed choices that support optimal mental health, enhance mood stability, and foster overall wellness. Nutrition for Life-Long Well-Being: Integrating nutrition as a fundamental part of your lifestyle promotes long-term well-being. It is important to develop sustainable eating habits that support mental health and overall vitality. Our team at Plantation Psychologists offers personalized strategies and tools to help individuals create a balanced and nourishing diet that suits their preferences, dietary needs, and goals. Conclusion: The relationship between food and mood is an important aspect of mental and emotional well-being. At Plantation Psychologists, Lisa Saponaro, Ph.D., and our team are committed to guiding individuals in South Florida, including Davie, Plantation, Sunrise, Weston, and beyond, on their journey to optimal mental health and wellness. By understanding the profound impact of nutrition on mood and emphasizing the connection between gut health and mental well-being, we empower individuals to make informed choices that support their overall vitality and nourish both their bodies and minds. To learn more about our services or to schedule a consultation, please visit our website or contact us today.

Navigating the Social Media Landscape: Parental Concerns Regarding Teen Use of TikTok and Instagram

By Lisa Saponaro • November 18, 2023
In today's digital age, social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram have become increasingly popular among teenagers. While these platforms offer opportunities for self-expression and connection, it is essential for parents to be aware of the potential concerns surrounding their children's social media use. In this blog post, we discuss the impact of TikTok and Instagram on body image, anxiety, and depression among teenagers, drawing on recent research from the American Psychological Association (APA). We also provide insights and recommendations from Lisa Saponaro, a leading psychologist at Plantation Psychologists, located in South Florida, specifically Plantation. The Influence of Social Media on Body Image: Social media platforms often promote an idealized and curated version of beauty and body image, which can lead to negative self-comparisons and dissatisfaction among teenagers. The APA study highlights that exposure to idealized body images on platforms like TikTok, Snapchat and Instagram are associated with increased body dissatisfaction, disordered eating behaviors, and a higher risk of developing negative body image perceptions. This is particular true for adolescent girls who receive targeted messages promoting unrealistic and idealized body images. Fueling Anxiety and Depression: The constant exposure to carefully curated images, comments, and social comparison on social media platforms can contribute to heightened anxiety and depressive symptoms among teenagers. The APA study underscores that excessive social media use is linked to increased levels of anxiety and depression. The constant pressure to gain likes, followers, and maintain a perfect online image can create feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem. Recommendations for Parents: 1. Open Communication: Foster an open and non-judgmental dialogue with your teenager about their social media use. Encourage them to share their experiences, concerns, and feelings related to these platforms. Provide support and guidance in navigating the challenges that may arise. 2. Set Healthy Boundaries: Establish clear guidelines for screen time and encourage a healthy balance between online and offline activities. Collaboratively develop a family media plan that ensures designated periods for tech-free activities and quality family time. 3. Promote Critical Thinking: Encourage your teenager to be critical consumers of social media content. Help them understand the impact of filters, photo editing, and the curated nature of online personas. Teach them to question unrealistic beauty standards and to value authenticity over perfection. 4. Encourage Positive Online Interactions: Encourage your teenager to engage in positive and meaningful interactions online. Help them identify accounts that promote body positivity, mental health awareness, and empowerment. Encourage them to follow accounts that provide educational content and encourage healthy self-expression. 5. Be a Role Model: Remember that your own social media use can influence your teenager's behavior. Model healthy habits by maintaining a balanced and mindful approach to your own online engagement. The Expert Perspective - Lisa Saponaro, Plantation Psychologists: Lisa Saponaro, owner and psychologist at the Center for Psychological Growth and Wellness, emphasizes the importance of parental involvement and awareness. She advises parents to stay informed about the latest trends and challenges on social media platforms. She also highlights the significance of fostering a supportive and validating home environment, where teenagers feel comfortable discussing their experiences and emotions related to social media. Conclusion: As parents, it is crucial to be mindful of the potential impact that social media platforms like TikTok, twitter, Snapchat and Instagram can have on our teenagers' well-being. The APA study and expert insights highlight the links between social media use, body image concerns, anxiety, and depression among adolescents. By maintaining open communication, setting healthy boundaries, promoting critical thinking, and encouraging positive online interactions, we can help our teenagers navigate the social media landscape in a way that supports their mental health and overall well-being. Together, let's empower our teenagers to develop a healthy relationship with social media and embrace their unique identities beyond the digital realm.