We support adopting licensing regulations that would ban the practice of so-called “conversion therapy” or sexual orientation or gender identity change efforts for LGBTQ+ minors.  Such regulations would protect youths from these practices that are not only ineffective but harmful.

”Conversion therapy” is a dangerous and discredited practice based on the false idea that being LGBTQ is a mental illness that needs to be cured—a view with no scientific basis.  A ban would protect young people from State-licensed therapists in Virginia falsely claiming to parents and youth that being LGBTQ is a mental illness, and thereby taking advantage of parents and harming vulnerable youths.  These practices use rejection, shame, and psychological abuse to force young people to try and change who they are.  The practices are known to be extremely dangerous and can lead to depression, decreased self-esteem, self-medication and substance abuse, and even suicide attempts.

No young person should be shamed by a mental health professional into thinking that who they are is wrong.  Mental health professionals should provide care that is ethical and affirming for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender young people.  Please protect LGBTQ+ youth by banning “conversion therapy” and gender identity change practices.