SALT LAKE CITY — Artificial intelligence could be your next therapist. The Utah Legislature reviews the recommendations and ultimately decides whether to create new laws and policies.
Utah Office of Artificial Intelligence Policy Director Zachary Boyd said several professionals are already using AI in their practices.
“We don’t think the industry has really proven yet what the best approach will be,” he said. “But we’re seeing a lot of companies getting into this area and trying things.”
He said the agency has made three recommendations to the Utah Legislature on ways to ensure AI benefits, rather than detracts from, mental health care. The recommendations revolve around data security, safety guidelines for professionals, and specific guidance on how AI can overlap with licensed professional work.
“We certainly have concerns about data privacy,” Boyd said. “AI can capture and leverage some of the most sensitive data that exists regarding our inner lives, so you want to make sure there is adequate protection for that.”
According to Boyd, the agency wants to ensure that all proper safeguards are in place when it comes to AI and mental health care.
“Mental health care is a regulated profession for a reason,” says Boyd.
AlTHESsecond Harris-Gurr is a reporter for KSL NewsRadio.
