Kendra Hilty says she started getting violent threats online after her TikTok series, “I Fell in Love with My Psychiatrist,” went viral.
Hilty first gained attention by sharing her story about developing feelings for her psychiatrist, who she claims manipulated her. Many viewers showed support at first. But things changed after she introduced her new “therapist” — an AI chatbot she named Henry, based on ChatGPT.
In an interview with People, Hilty said she expected some people to relate to her story but didn’t expect such a strong wave of negativity. Soon after her videos took off, she says the online bullying began. Some people left disturbing comments, telling her to kill herself or saying the world would be better without her.
Hilty explained that the threats have also affected her personal life, with some friends and people in her circle distancing themselves out of fear of being targeted too.
Still, not all the feedback has been negative. Hilty said some viewers have thanked her for speaking out and sharing her experience. “People tell me they believe me and appreciate my courage,” she said. “That makes it worth it, even if I’m the internet’s laughing stock.”
She’s also heard from old friends who want to show support.
Hilty’s TikTok series is still ongoing, and she has joined TikTok’s Creator Fund to earn money from her content. She says she would be open to turning her story into a TV show or movie — as long as it’s told in a way that respects her.
In her videos, Hilty claims she originally sought treatment for ADHD but ended up developing romantic feelings for her psychiatrist. She accuses the doctor of not keeping professional boundaries. After ending that relationship, she began using ChatGPT as her “therapist,” a move that sparked concern and debate online.
