FSAP Wellness Webinar: Mental Health in the Age of Artificial Intelligence

Zoom registration

Presenter: Dr. Jessica Allanson, Licensed Clinical Psychologist, UCSF Faculty and Staff Assistance Program

Artificial intelligence is becoming an increasingly present part of our everyday lives. From helping us organize information and brainstorm ideas to offering advice, companionship, or even support during difficult moments, AI tools are changing not only how we work, but also how we seek information, make decisions, and relate to technology. As these tools become more sophisticated and more human-like in their interactions, it is increasingly important to consider what their use may mean for our mental health and wellbeing.

What does it look like to engage with AI in a way that supports rather than undermines our wellbeing? When might AI be helpful, and when should we be cautious? How can we recognize when our own (or someone else’s) relationship with AI may be becoming concerning?

Join us for a 1-hour informational webinar exploring AI use through a mental health lens. Drawing from current research and psychological perspectives, we will discuss both the potential benefits and risks of engaging with AI and consider practical ways to use these rapidly evolving tools safely and intentionally.

This webinar will focus on:

1. Reviewing current research on AI use and mental health
2. Exploring potential mental health benefits of AI when used appropriately
3. Understanding psychological risks and concerns associated with AI use
4. Identifying signs that our own or someone else’s relationship with AI may warrant greater attention
5. Discussing practical steps for establishing healthy boundaries and supporting safer, more intentional AI use

AI is likely to remain an evolving part of our personal and professional lives. Developing a healthy relationship with these tools does not require avoiding them altogether. It begins with understanding how they can affect us, recognizing where their limitations matter, and making thoughtful choices about when and how we engage.

Please note: This webinar approaches AI from a mental health and psychological wellbeing perspective. It is not intended to provide information technology, cybersecurity, data privacy, or UCSF-specific AI policy guidance.

Bio:

Jessica Allanson, PhD, MA, is a licensed clinical psychologist with the Faculty and Staff Assistance Program at UCSF and runs the FSAP Post-Doctoral Fellowship Program. Dr. Allanson has chosen to specialize in recovery from substance use and workplace burnout, working primarily with those in high-intensity work settings and with high-achieving populations. She incorporates empirically-validated skill-based learning as well as industrial/organizational psychology strategies into her work with individual clients, teams, leaders, and learners. Dr. Allanson believes in the power of compassionate education and hopes to use her passion for sharing and teaching to support and empower those who are curious.