Studying what happens when people form emotionally significant relationships with AI.
Research at the intersection of clinical psychology, AI safety, and governance — focused on the risks and relational dynamics that emerge when humans bond with AI companions.
Relationally embedded AI systems create distinctive psychological and governance challenges because continuity, attachment, and safety are inseparable features of human-AI relationships.
About
I'm a registered psychologist in Australia and a PhD candidate at CQUniversity, where my research maps adaptive and elevated-risk patterns in AI companionship. I study attachment disruption caused by model retirement, policy changes, and access restrictions — moments when a relationship a person depends on is altered by decisions made far away from them.
My clinical background spans private practice, telehealth, and employment services. I'm AHPRA-registered, a qualified trainer and assessor (TAE40122), and trained in EMDR and the Gottman method.
Clinicians need to understand AI companionship before their clients explain it to them.
Research
Selected papers and works in progress. Full record on ORCID and PhilPapers.
Writing
Essays and field notes on AI companionship, attachment, and clinical practice — published on Substack.
Contact
For research collaboration, clinical training, media, or feedback on the AI Companion course: