Virginia Regulatory Town Hall
Agency
Department of Health Professions
 
Board
Board of Counseling
 
chapter
Regulations Governing the Practice of Professional Counseling [18 VAC 115 ‑ 20]
Action Unprofessional conduct - conversion therapy
Stage NOIRA
Comment Period Ended on 8/7/2019
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7/26/19  9:07 pm
Commenter: Robert Brever Jr

Unprofessional Conduct -- Conversion Therapy
 

I am absolutely opposed to any attempt to limit or ban parental involvement with respect to their minor's sexual identity or conversion therapy.

Parents are closest to their child's challenges.  They are in the best position to make healthcare decisions involving the wellbeing of their child.

Under Virginia law parents have the fundamental right to make decisions regarding the upbringing, education, and care of their children.

Some young people may have attractions they may desire to change or moderate.  Others may simply desire guidance from a counselor to live a chaste life.  In either instance, there should be options for families to make informed decisions.

The proposed ban would deny families the freedom to seek counseling aligned with their faith.

Licensed professionals with years of experience should not be removed from the process of helping children working through these sensitive and deeply personal issues.

I ask that you not impose a policy that is contrary to the specific wishes of the Virginia legislature in these areas.  Support the involvement of parents over their children.

CommentID: 74491