AI chatbots as therapists and companions: who new state laws protect and what experts tell parents

Aug 26, 2026 · Issue 4 · 4 sources, 4 articles

New state laws govern whether AI chatbots can be used as therapists or companions, and whom they protect. Pennsylvania experts are warning parents that children are relying on chatbots for therapy.

Who is affected and how

parent

It is worth discussing a child's emotional conversations with a chatbot and steering them towards a professional.

education policymaker

State laws provide a framework, but school rules must also address protecting children.

edtech company

Therapy-like or companion features carry state regulatory risk.

Sources

• AI Chatbots Used as Therapists, Companions: Who New State Laws Protectthe legal examiner · Aug 27, 2026
• AI Chatbots Used as Therapists, Companions: Who New State Laws Actually Protectlegalexaminer.com · Aug 27, 2026
• AI as a Therapist? PA experts warn parents about kids relying on Chatbotslocal21news.com · Aug 26, 2026
• AI as a Therapist? PA experts warn parents about kids relying on Chatbots - Bytes Europebyteseu.com · Aug 26, 2026

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