How to Talk to Clients About AI in Your Therapy Practice
Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming part of everyday life, and therapy practices are no exception. From transcription services to scheduling apps, AI can save time and make running your practice smoother. But for therapists, there’s a key consideration: how do you explain AI use to clients in a way that’s clear, accurate, and compliant?
Here are six steps to help you stay transparent while building trust.
1. Take Inventory of Your AI Tools
Begin by listing every AI-powered tool your practice uses. Separate them into two categories:
Client-facing tools: chatbots, transcription services, or anything that touches the therapy experience.
Admin-only tools: scheduling, billing, or note-drafting support.
This gives you a clear picture of what needs to be disclosed.
2. Update Your Consent Forms
Consent is critical. Clients should always know when AI is part of their care. Review your intake documents to ensure they:
Explain AI usage in plain language.
Include a clear opt-in checkbox for recording or transcription.
Emphasize that AI assists with admin but does not replace therapy.
3. Keep Your Messaging Honest
Marketing matters. Avoid calling anything related to your services “AI therapy.” It’s misleading and could put your practice at risk. Instead, use accurate phrasing:
“AI-assisted scheduling”
“AI-powered transcription support”
The message should always be: AI supports therapy, it doesn’t deliver it.
4. Evaluate Vendors Carefully
Before you adopt a new AI tool, ask important questions:
How does it protect client privacy?
Does it offer disclosure features for transparency?
Does it include safety measures for client crises?
The right vendor will help you stay compliant and aligned with ethical standards.
5. Create Internal Policies
Your staff should never be left guessing about what’s okay. Set clear policies, such as:
AI is not used for treatment decisions.
AI is limited to administrative or supportive tasks.
Staff should follow written guidance on proper use.
6. Stay Informed
AI in healthcare is evolving quickly. To protect your practice, you’ll need to:
Stay updated on laws and professional regulations.
Review your AI use regularly.
Update consent forms and policies as rules change.
Bottom Line
AI can make your therapy practice more efficient, but clients deserve clarity about how it’s used. By being transparent in your forms, policies, and messaging, you build the trust that makes therapy effective.
At MJ Morley Law, we help mental health professionals craft clear policies and consent language so they can use AI confidently while staying compliant.
Ready to protect your practice? Contact us today to get started.
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