Mental Health Coach Explores AI as an Emotional Support Tool

Tiffany Skidmore, a mental health and life coach, is turning to artificial intelligence to help individuals navigate emotional challenges, particularly during stressful periods such as the holidays. In her latest exploration, she shares her personal experience of using AI to manage intense feelings that can arise in difficult moments.

AI as a Supportive Tool for Emotional Regulation

After a recent Thanksgiving gathering, Skidmore found herself overwhelmed by emotions, feeling invisible and unheard. Such feelings are common during family gatherings, where unresolved dynamics often resurface. Despite being equipped with various self-regulation techniques, she acknowledges that managing overwhelming emotions can be challenging, even for those trained in mental health.

In her journey to find support, Skidmore emphasizes the importance of feeling seen and heard. Many people struggle to provide the necessary support in these moments, often defaulting to offering solutions instead of simply listening. This realization led her to explore how AI could act as a supplementary tool in her emotional toolbox.

Skidmore describes AI as a high-tech journal that facilitates introspection without replacing human connection. Using AI tools like Claude and ChatGPT, she has found that these platforms can help individuals articulate their emotions and consider various perspectives. Importantly, she clarifies that AI should not be viewed as a substitute for professional mental health services.

Effective Prompts for Insightful Conversations

The effectiveness of AI in this context relies significantly on the prompts users provide to guide their conversations. Skidmore has developed a specific approach: she initiates her sessions by stating, “Hi Claude, please act as a relationship expert and help me explore an issue I’m having.” This framework encourages the AI to ask insightful questions that can lead to self-discovery.

Through her interactions, Skidmore has observed several benefits. AI can identify recurring themes in her thoughts, prompting her to explore underlying issues contributing to her stress. Additionally, it poses questions that help clarify her feelings and offers a broader perspective on her situation.

This interactive journaling experience enables Skidmore to leave her sessions feeling more regulated and focused on aspects within her control. While she prefers human connection whenever possible, she recognizes the unique advantages AI provides in her emotional processing.

AI’s lack of human biases allows for a more concentrated focus on the user’s feelings without the distractions of typical human responses, such as pushing for positive outcomes or solutions. This aspect makes AI a valuable ally during uncomfortable emotional experiences.

Skidmore encourages others to consider using AI in similar ways, inviting feedback and discussions about personal experiences with these tools. She aims to provide compassionate and practical guidance as she continues to explore the intersection of technology and mental health.

For those interested in learning more about her approach or sharing experiences, Skidmore invites emails and submissions through her website, tiffanyskidmore.com. By integrating AI into her coaching practices, she hopes to empower others to engage with their emotions in a new, constructive manner.