Joint Position: Legislation Required to Prohibit Artificial Intelligence (AI) Therapy

The advent of artificial intelligence (AI) has dramatically and rapidly changed the way we interact with technology. While there are undoubted benefits to this technology, it also introduces new dangers and risks, particularly in relation to AI therapy and AI companions. This is especially evident in the areas of mental health, mental illness and psychotherapy, as evidenced by recent tragedies in which people using AI therapists have gone on to complete suicide. It is, of course, important to differentiate between AI therapy and on-line therapy provided by appropriately trained professionals.