Summary
Creates the Wellness and Oversight for Psychological Resources Act, prohibiting any person or company from using AI to provide therapy or psychotherapy or to make therapeutic decisions. Licensed professionals may still use AI for administrative or supplementary support (e.g., scheduling, billing, record management) but not for diagnosis or treatment. The Act authorizes enforcement by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation and includes specified exceptions (e.g., religious counseling, peer support, self‑help materials).
Healthcare Implications
Bars AI chatbots and similar tools from acting as therapists or conducting therapy in Illinois, tightening clinical safety and accountability. Behavioral health providers must ensure any AI deployed is confined to administrative support and maintain human clinical judgment for care. Vendors marketing AI therapy or decision‑making tools face enforcement risk; procurement and compliance teams should update contracts and disclosures.
Operational Implications
- May not provide, advertise, or offer therapy/psychotherapy unless conducted by a licensed professional. AI may not make independent therapeutic decisions, directly interact with clients therapeutically, generate treatment plans without licensed review, or detect emotions.
- Licensed professionals may use AI only for permitted uses (administrative/supplementary support: scheduling, billing, record management). IDFPR enforcement; civil penalty up to $10,000 per violation.