The article explores the growing trend of using AI chatbots for children’s mental health support, particularly in response to the youth mental health crisis. It discusses how companies like Wysa and Replika are developing AI companions that can provide emotional support and therapeutic conversations for young people. The piece examines both potential benefits and concerns of this technology. Key benefits include 24/7 availability, reduced stigma, and easier access compared to traditional therapy. The article highlights how these AI tools can serve as an entry point to mental health care, especially for those who might be hesitant to seek human counseling. However, it also addresses significant concerns from mental health professionals about AI’s limitations, including the inability to provide crisis intervention, potential privacy issues, and the risk of children becoming overly dependent on AI relationships. The article features real-world examples of teenagers using these services and their experiences, both positive and negative. Mental health experts emphasize that while AI chatbots can be useful supplementary tools, they should not replace human therapists, particularly for serious mental health issues. The piece concludes by discussing the need for proper regulation and oversight of these AI mental health tools, especially when targeting vulnerable young users, and the importance of viewing them as complementary rather than replacement solutions for traditional mental health care.