Illinois bans AI therapy: where AI helps and where it stops
AI can book appointments and send reminders. It cannot be your client's therapist — at least not in Illinois. The new law draws a line many health businesses will recognise.
By the Xuru Technologies team · 10 August 2025
Key takeaways
- In August 2025 Illinois enacted the Wellness and Oversight for Psychological Resources Act.
- It prohibits using AI to provide therapy or make independent therapeutic decisions, with penalties for violations.
- Licensed professionals may still use AI for administrative and supplementary support, within limits and with consent.
- Health and wellness businesses everywhere should be clear about what their AI does and doesn't do.
Mental health is where the stakes of AI mistakes are highest. Expect more rules like this, and more scrutiny of wellness apps' claims.
What happened
Illinois's professional regulation department announced the law, and Taft summarised its scope and the permitted administrative uses.
What it means for health and wellness businesses
- Admin AI is fine in many places: scheduling, reminders, billing and note support with consent.
- Clinical claims need care. Don't present chatbots as therapists or clinicians.
- Disclose AI use clearly on your website and in intake forms.
- Escalation routes to humans and crisis resources are essential in any wellness chat.
Website checklist for wellness providers
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| AI disclosure | What AI does (booking, reminders) and doesn't (therapy) |
| Consent | Clear consent for any AI-assisted note-taking |
| Crisis information | Visible links to emergency and crisis support |
| Practitioner details | Qualifications and licence information |
Frequently asked questions
Can therapists use AI to write notes?
Under the Illinois law, licensed professionals can use AI for certain supplementary support with client consent, but not for therapeutic decisions. Check the rules where you practise.
Does this apply outside Illinois?
No, but similar debates are happening elsewhere, and professional bodies may issue their own guidance.
Can a wellness website have a chatbot?
Yes, for practical questions like booking and services, clearly labelled as AI and with routes to a person.
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