Plain and simple, we as mental health providers should not be trying to change sexual orientation or gender identity (or any other aspects of sexuality, gender expression, or orientation). The American Counseling Association supports this ban, as do I as a member and practicing counselor in Virginia. Many young people have ended their lives due to pressure from family, society, and, unfortunately, professionals to change who they are as people. Minors are particularly vulnerable to abusive practices that aim to change fundamental aspects of who they are and often are forced into conversion therapy by their family members, without choice of their own. We, as professional counselors, cannot support these immensely harmful practices. I support banning conversion therapy, in line with the positions of my professional organization. 

Justin Jordan LPC CSAC

President- New River Valley Counselors Association

President- Virginia Association of Addiction Counselors