Artificial intelligence is becoming part of everyday professional work, from drafting documents and organizing information to supporting research and education. While these tools offer new opportunities, they also require careful ethical consideration.

The ATSA Ethics Committee encourages members to use AI thoughtfully and responsibly.

Members should remember to:

•  Protect client, patient, and research participant confidentiality. 
•  Verify the accuracy of AI-generated content. 
•  Be aware of potential bias in AI outputs. 
•  Follow institutional, publisher, and professional guidelines for AI use. 
•  Disclose AI use in research and scholarly work when required. 

AI is a tool, not a substitute for professional judgment. Generative AI can increase efficiency, but it cannot replace ethical reasoning, clinical expertise, scientific rigor, or professional accountability. Decisions affecting clients, research participants, students, and the public require thoughtful human judgment grounded in professional ethics.

As AI becomes more integrated into our work, the Ethics Committee encourages members to approach these technologies with curiosity, critical thinking, and a commitment to the ethical standards that define our professions. We encourage members to review the guidance provided by their professional organizations and institutions and to engage colleagues in ongoing conversations about the responsible use of AI in practice, education, and research.

Helpful resources include:

• American Psychological Association (APA): https://www.apa.org/topics/artificial-intelligence
• American Medical Association (AMA): https://www.ama-assn.org/practice-management/digital/artificial-intelligence
• National Association of Social Workers (NASW): https://www.socialworkers.org/Practice/Informatics
• Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE): https://publicationethics.org/resources/discussion-documents/ai-authoring-tools-and-authorship
• International Committee of Medical Journal Editors (ICMJE): https://www.icmje.org/icmje-recommendations.pdf

As guidance continues to evolve, ATSA encourages members to stay informed and ensure their use of AI reflects the ethical standards of their profession.