Comment by stared
8 days ago
Well, in my experience (I admit, I am a difficult client), it is much harder to prompt that way a therapist. I mean, they need (ethically, legally, etc) adhere strongly to "better safe that sorry", which also gives constraints on what can be said. I understand that. With one therapist it took me quite some time to get to the point he reduced sugar-coating and when's needed, stick a pin in.
I got some of the most piercing remarks from close friends (I am blessed by company of such insightful people!) - which both know me from my life (not only what I tell about my life) and are free to say whatever they wish.
Sorry, I'm asking about ChatGPT, and pointing out how it's a flaw that you need to specifically ask it to call you on your bullshit. You seem to be talking about therapists and close friends. In my experience a therapist will, although gently.
It is not a flaw. It is a tool that can be used in various ways.
It is like saying "I was told that with Python I can make a website, I downloaded Python - they lied, I have no website".
Basic prompts are "you are a helpful assistant" with all its consequences. Using such assistant as a therapist might be suboptimal.