The AI tools therapists are using today and how to use them ethically

Summary

• Therapists use artificial intelligence in therapy practice to automate administrative tasks like note-taking and scheduling, increasing time for clinical care.

• Secure AI tools therapists are using today must be HIPAA-compliant, featuring signed Business Associate Agreements and robust encryption for data protection.

• Clinicians should treat AI as a documentation assistant, personally reviewing and editing all generated notes to ensure accuracy and ethical responsibility.

• Ethical use requires obtaining informed consent, explaining AI's role clearly, and offering clients manual documentation alternatives to maintain trust.

Artificial intelligence is quickly becoming a behind-the-scenes partner in therapy practices across the country, and AI tools therapists are using today are reshaping everything from documentation to client communication.

Therapists use artificial intelligence in therapy practice to reduce admin load and free up time for clinical care. But even as the use of artificial intelligence in therapy practice grows, ethical and privacy concerns are evolving just as fast.

In this article, we’ll explore AI tools therapists are using today, which AI tools are HIPAA compliant, what to say to clients, and what training is needed for AI tools.

Artificial intelligence in therapy practice

If you’re imagining robots replacing therapists, think again. Most AI tools in therapy are focused on behind-the-scenes tasks such as documentation, scheduling, or communication support. They aren’t out there replacing therapeutic relationships. 

The AI tools therapists are using today generally fall into a few practical categories that support administrative and clinical workflows. 

Today’s most common uses of artificial intelligence in therapy practice include:

• Note-taking assistants like SimplePractice’s AI Note Taker, which can transcribe sessions and generate progress note drafts.

• AI-powered scheduling tools that automate reminders and appointment booking.

• Chatbots and messaging assistants that handle FAQs using AI on your website.

• Content generators like Jasper or ChatGPT (used without PHI) for creating blog posts or psychoeducation materials to strengthen marketing. 

Therapists are also experimenting with mood-tracking apps, AI-based screening tools, and secure messaging platforms that personalize client outreach. These tools are less about “doing therapy” and more about supporting therapists as they do their work.

Which AI tools are HIPAA compliant?

This is the big question. Any tool that interacts with Protected Health Information (PHI) must be HIPAA compliant—and that includes AI.

How do you know which AI tools are HIPAA compliant? Start by checking for:

• A signed Business Associate Agreement (BAA)

• AES-256 encryption or better

• Audit logging and access controls

• Clear data use and breach notification policies

HIPAA-compliant AI tools include SimplePractice, TheraNest/Ensora Health, and Mentalyc, all of which serve healthcare providers specifically. Be cautious with general-use AI tools like ChatGPT, Google Gemini, or Grammarly; unless you’re using a secured API under a BAA, they’re not suitable for PHI.

As the list of AI tools therapists are using today continues to grow, the most common entry point for clinicians is documentation and note-taking support.

‌

How to use AI for note-taking safely and effectively

Clinicians are saving hours each week by using AI for documentation. 

Here's how to use AI for note-taking:

1. Session audio is recorded or uploaded into an AI-powered note taker (e.g., SimplePractice AI Note Taker).

2. The AI transcribes and drafts a SOAP note using the session data.

3. The clinician reviews and edits for accuracy, tone, and clinical nuance.

4. The finalized note is saved securely in the EHR.

The key is leveraging AI as an assistant rather than the actual author. Remember: your name and license are on every note, so always review and edit AI-drafted content before signing. That’s how you stay in ethical alignment and clinical control.

When should therapists avoid AI?

Even though the AI tools therapists are using today can increase efficiency, they are not appropriate for every clinical or ethical context.

Here’s when therapists should avoid AI entirely:

• For diagnosing or formulating treatment plans

• When documenting trauma, legal cases, or sensitive disclosures

• If the tool is not HIPAA compliant or you can’t verify how data is handled

AI tools can make mistakes (“hallucinations”), miss cultural nuance, or reinforce bias. They should never replace human judgment or therapeutic presence.

What about client privacy with AI?

This is one of the most important ethical fronts. Clients have the right to know when and how AI is involved in their care. 

Here’s how to approach it:

• Use HIPAA-secure AI tools only

• Get informed consent and clearly explain what the tool does and how it’s used

• Offer an opt-out (e.g., "Would you prefer I document our sessions manually?")

• Make sure any recorded data is encrypted and deleted per policy

Here’s an example you can use in your consent paperwork:

“To help with documentation, I use an AI tool that drafts session notes. It operates within a HIPAA-secure platform, and I review and edit every note personally. Let me know if you’re comfortable with this approach or if you'd prefer a manual option.”

Clients often appreciate the transparency, and the opportunity to ask questions builds trust.

‌

How to explain AI use to clients

Clients are hearing about AI everywhere, from mental health chatbots to viral therapy content. By explaining your tools clearly, you strengthen the therapeutic relationship.

A few tips for a positive conversation:

• Speak in plain language, not tech jargon

• Focus on why you’re using the tool (e.g., to save time on paperwork, reduce errors)

• Emphasize your role as the human reviewer and decision-maker

• Include it in your informed consent paperwork

• Ask if they have any questions

Being upfront helps normalize the conversation and positions you as a thoughtful, tech-literate clinician.

What training is needed for AI tools?

Using AI ethically requires more than downloading a new app. You need training in:

• The clinical limits of AI

• HIPAA and legal compliance

• Documentation best practices

• Recognizing bias in AI-generated content

• Data security basics (encryption, access, retention)

Many professional associations now offer continuing education on AI ethics in therapy. Start with short webinars or trusted CEU courses from organizations like the APA, ACA, or NASW. Your malpractice carrier may also provide risk guidance or toolkits.

Final thoughts: Balance efficiency with ethics

The use of artificial intelligence in therapy practice is growing fast, but it’s most powerful when used responsibly. 

The AI tools therapists are using today are best seen as support systems—not replacements for clinical judgment, ethical responsibility, or therapeutic presence. 

When therapists stay in the driver’s seat, reviewing outputs, protecting privacy, and clearly informing clients, AI can streamline the business side of therapy while preserving the heart of the work.

How SimplePractice streamlines running your practice

SimplePractice is HIPAA-compliant practice management software with everything you need to run your practice built into the platform—from booking and scheduling to insurance and client billing.

If you’ve been considering switching to an EHR system, SimplePractice empowers you to run a fully paperless practice—so you get more time for the things that matter most to you.

Try SimplePractice free for 30 days. No credit card required.

‌