Virginia Regulatory Town Hall
Agency
Department of Health Professions
 
Board
Board of Counseling
 
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4/16/19  8:59 am
Commenter: Caitlyn Largent

Ban Conversion Therapy
 

To begin with, the argument that this would take away parental rights is ridiculous. Parents do not have a right to harm their children, and there are numerous studies to show that conversion therapy is harmful (ex. 2009 APA report, George Rekers failed case in the 1970s). "Rights" as a parent do not outweigh the safety of a child.  

As a counseling student and someone who is about to be in the field, I can say without a doubt that conversion therapy is unethical and wrong. It goes against everything that we believe in, including but not limited to enhancing human development throughout the life span; honoring diversity and embracing a multicultural approach in support of the worth, dignity, potential, and uniqueness of people within their social and cultural contexts; promoting social justice; safeguarding the integrity of the counselor–client relationship; and practicing in a competent and ethical manner (ACA Code of Ethics, 2014). 

And to anyone who is in the LGBTQIA+ community that may be reading this; you are not broken. You are not damaged. You do not need to be "fixed". You are perfect and amazing and beautiful just the way you are. If you ever need mental health support, there are many therapists/counselors out there who are affirming and will be there to walk on your journey with you. You are not alone and please know that myself and many other people will be advocating with you to ensure that you and your rights are protected. 

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