arxivcs.HC2026-06-26
Functional outcomes and naturalistic engagement with a purpose-built conversational AI for mental health (Ash)
Kristen M. Van Swearingen, Thomas D. Hull, Karthik V. Sarma, Caitlin A. Stamatis
Background: Conversational AI chatbots designed for mental health may offer an accessible, scalable avenue for supporting psychological well-being, yet prior evaluations have largely focused on clinical symptom reduction rather than broader indicators of day-to-day functioning, a…