top of page

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Q: Is this just ChatGPT?
A: No. Each Pocket PhD is a specialized expert trained on specific frameworks, research, and professional methodologies. They're designed to give you the kind of guidance you'd get from a $200/hour consultant—not generic AI answers. For example, our Family PhD uses Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Attachment Theory frameworks. Our Finance PhD applies Modern Portfolio Theory and behavioral economics. This isn't generic advice—it's expert-level guidance.

 

Q: Can I try before I commit to a subscription?
A: Absolutely! Get a 24-hour pass for just $4.99 and access all 5 experts with up to 500 messages. It's the perfect way to experience the value before committing to a monthly plan. If you love it (and we think you will), you can upgrade anytime.

 

Q: What's included in the monthly plan?
A: For $9.99/month, you get 5,000 messages per month across all 5 PhD experts. You can switch between experts as your life demands—family issues one day, career advice the next, financial planning after that. It's like having 5 expert consultants on retainer.

 

Q: Is my information private?
A: Yes. Your questions stay between you and your Pocket PhD. We never share, sell, or train on your personal conversations. Your subscription data is kept confidential and secure.

 

Q: Can I cancel anytime?
A: Absolutely. No contracts. No commitments. Cancel anytime with one click. For monthly subscribers, you'll retain access through the end of your paid period.

 

Q: Are these real people?
A: No—these are AI-powered expert advisors built on advanced language models and trained on specialized frameworks. They can't replace licensed therapists, lawyers, or financial advisors for serious clinical or legal matters, but they provide evidence-based guidance for everyday challenges and decision-making.

 

Q: Do the experts remember our previous conversations?
A: Yes! Each expert maintains conversation history so you can continue discussions naturally. When you return, your Pocket PhD will remember what you've talked about and build on previous advice. It's like having an ongoing relationship with your advisor.

 

Q: How fast do I get a response?
A: Instantly. No waiting rooms, no scheduling, no "we'll get back to you in 24-48 hours." Ask your question and get a thoughtful, detailed response in seconds—whether it's 2pm or 2am.

 

Q: Can I use this on my phone?
A: Yes! Pocket PhD works perfectly on any device—phone, tablet, or computer. The mobile experience is optimized for quick, on-the-go advice when life throws you curveballs.

 

Q: What happens if I run out of messages?
A: With 5,000 messages per month, most users never hit the limit. That's about 167 messages per day if you use it consistently. If you do reach your limit, it resets on the 1st of each month. For urgent needs, you can always grab a 24-hour pass to continue the conversation.

 

Q: Can I upload images or documents?
A: Yes! All plans (including the 24-hour pass) let you upload images and PDFs. Share screenshots of your budget, upload a resume for review, or send a photo of a nutrition label for analysis. Your Pocket PhD can analyze visual information to give even better advice.

Pocket PhD Service Disclaimer - Last Updated: January 2026


1. Nature of Service
Pocket PhD is an AI-powered educational platform that provides general guidance based on established frameworks, research, and best practices across multiple domains. Our service uses artificial intelligence trained in each specific area to generate responses based on your questions.


Pocket PhD is NOT:

A licensed therapist, psychologist, or mental health provider
A registered investment advisor or certified financial planner
A registered dietitian or medical nutrition therapist
A licensed career counselor or professional recruiter
A medical provider of any kind

Pocket PhD IS:

An educational tool providing general information
A resource for exploring ideas and strategies
A starting point for personal research and reflection
A convenient way to access research-based frameworks

2. Domain-Specific Disclaimers
Family PhD:

Not a substitute for therapy, counseling, or mental health treatment
Cannot diagnose mental health conditions or prescribe treatment
Not appropriate for crisis situations or active mental health emergencies
If you're experiencing suicidal thoughts, domestic violence, abuse, or mental health crisis, contact emergency services (988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, 911) or a licensed mental health professional immediately

Finance PhD:

Provides educational information only, not personalized financial advice
Not a fiduciary and does not consider your specific financial situation
Cannot recommend specific investments, products, or financial strategies
Does not replace consultation with a licensed financial advisor, CPA, or attorney
For comprehensive financial planning, consult a fee-only fiduciary advisor

Nutrition PhD:

Provides general nutrition education, not medical nutrition therapy
Cannot diagnose, treat, or provide meal plans for medical conditions
Not appropriate for eating disorders or serious medical conditions
Always consult a Registered Dietitian (RD/RDN) or physician before making significant dietary changes, especially if you have medical conditions, are pregnant/breastfeeding, or taking medications

Career PhD:

Provides general career guidance, not professional placement services
Cannot guarantee employment outcomes or salary negotiations
Market information may not reflect current conditions in your specific location or industry
Consult licensed career counselors or legal professionals for specific employment law questions

Productivity PhD:

Provides general productivity strategies, not treatment for ADHD or executive function disorders
Not a substitute for occupational therapy or clinical psychology services
If productivity challenges are impacting your daily functioning, consult a licensed healthcare provider

3. AI Technology Limitations

Responses are generated by artificial intelligence and may contain errors, outdated information, or inappropriate suggestions.
AI cannot understand nuance, context, or non-verbal cues like human professionals can
The system has no memory of your full situation across sessions beyond conversation history
Knowledge cutoff dates mean some information may be outdated
AI cannot provide the personalized, holistic assessment a human professional would

4. User Responsibilities
By using Pocket PhD, you acknowledge that:

You are using this service for educational purposes only
You will seek appropriate professional help for serious matters
You will not rely solely on AI guidance for important life decisions
You understand the difference between AI-generated information and professional services
You will verify important information with qualified professionals

5. Emergency Situations
If you are in crisis:

Call 988 - Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (US)
Call 911 - Emergency services (US)
Text "HELLO" to 741741 - Crisis Text Line
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233

Pocket PhD cannot and will not respond appropriately to emergency situations. Always contact emergency services for urgent matters.


6. No Professional Relationship
Use of Pocket PhD does not create a therapist-client, advisor-client, dietitian-client, or any other professional relationship. There is no confidentiality protection equivalent to licensed professional services.


7. Limitation of Liability
Pocket PhD and its creators are not liable for any decisions you make based on information provided by the service. You assume all risk for actions taken based on AI-generated guidance.

bottom of page