I am writing in full support of regulations to ban the practice of “conversion therapy” in the Commomwealth of Virginia. This practice has been found to cause more harm than good and be detrimental to the lives and mental health of individuals. It is not an evidence-based practice and does not have any backing through research that shows that it is effective. This practice has been shown to cause shame, depression, and suicidality in individuals. On the contrary, affirming one’s sexual orientation has shown to have positive outcomes for this population. The Commonwealth of Virginia, in its strong roots in social justice and advocacy for minority populations, should look to the stance of all medical, psychological, and counseling professional organizations, (such as AMA, APA, and ACA, just to name a few), in condemning any practices of conversion therapy. If the goal of the Commonwealth is to have a healthy and well adjusted society, we must stand firm against any such practices, as conversion therapy, that promote negative health outcomes.  Thank you, Dr. Mina Attia