I'm writing in support of a ban on conversion "therapy"--if you can call a practice that leads to LGBTQ young people being 8 times more likely to attempt suicide and 6 times more likely to report high levels of depression therapeutic. It it unethical to call those types of interventions therapy as they cause irreparable harm. It is unscientific, as no evidence shows any conversion practice to be effective. 

Furthermore, banning conversion therapy is supported by an overwhelming number of professional organizations. Including but not limited to: American Academy of Child Adolescent Psychiatry, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, American College of Physicians, American Counseling Association, American Medical Association, American Psychiatric Association, American Psychoanalytic Association, American Psychological Association, American School Counselor Association, American School Health Association, National Association of Social Workers, and the World Psychiatric Association. 

Surely it is time for Virginia to protect the next generation from these harmful, fradulent practices. 

Ngiste Abebe, Co-director of New Leaders Council Virginia