New Illinois Law Limits Use of AI in Mental Health Therapy
Illinois has introduced a law that restricts the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in therapy and psychotherapy. Effective August 1, 2025, the Wellness and Oversight for Psychological Resources Act bans AI from delivering professional therapy or making therapeutic decisions without human oversight. This action comes after reports of AI-powered therapy chatbots giving incorrect and sometimes harmful advice to users.
The law applies to individuals and organizations offering therapy services in Illinois, including those using internet-based AI. Only licensed professionals—such as psychologists, social workers, and counselors—are permitted to provide these services. Autonomous AI systems that suggest diagnoses, treatments, or improvements in mental or behavioral health are prohibited from operating independently within the state.
Restrictions on AI Use by Licensed Professionals
Licensed therapists must adhere to specific rules when using AI in their practice. The law forbids AI from:
- Making independent therapeutic decisions
- Directly communicating with clients in any therapeutic capacity
- Generating treatment recommendations or plans without prior review and approval by the licensed professional
- Detecting client emotions or mental states
Permitted Uses of AI
The Act allows licensed professionals to use AI for certain non-therapeutic functions divided into two categories:
- Administrative Support Services: Tasks such as scheduling appointments, processing billing and insurance, and sending general communications related to therapy logistics that do not include therapeutic advice.
- Supplementary Support Services: Activities that assist therapists without involving therapeutic communication. Examples include preparing clinical notes, analyzing anonymized data, or identifying external resources and referrals. AI tools like ambient listening devices and medical scribes fall under this category.
Use of AI for supplementary support requires obtaining written consent from the patient.
Enforcement and Exemptions
Violations of the law can lead to civil fines up to $10,000 per incident. The law excludes religious counseling, peer support, and publicly available self-help or educational materials that do not claim to offer therapy.
Recommendations for Mental Health Providers
Therapists and practices in Illinois should create clear policies detailing which AI functions are permissible and ensure written patient consent is obtained where necessary. Prompt compliance will help avoid financial penalties and protect professional reputations.
AI companies offering therapy-related services in Illinois should also review their operations carefully to align with the new requirements.
For healthcare professionals exploring AI and its applications, resources like Complete AI Training’s latest AI courses can provide valuable insights into responsible AI use in clinical settings.
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