AI Therapy Ban: California Lawmakers Draw the Line

California is considering new regulations for artificial intelligence in mental healthcare. Senate Bill 903 aims to prevent AI chatbots from being advertised as therapeutic services and prohibits AI from making critical treatment decisions without a licensed professional's review. The bill also mandates patient consent for using AI to record sessions or manage care.

This legislative push follows a notable increase in individuals seeking AI-driven mental health support. Approximately one in eight adolescents and young adults now utilize chatbots for mental health care, according to a 2025 study. Furthermore, a recent report indicated that 77 percent of psychologists have encountered patients using AI for support.

Proponents argue that AI, while beneficial, requires responsible deployment with established safety measures. Critics, however, contend that the bill could hinder the efficient use of AI tools that help connect patients to care faster, especially amidst a shortage of behavioral healthcare workers. Concerns also exist regarding the lack of standardized benchmarks for evaluating AI's mental health advice.