My professional journey has included time in both schools and mental health organizations, and I’ve been proud to affiliate with both the American Counseling Association and the National Education Association. Those organizations, along with many others -- including every major professional organization representing mental health professions --  have spoken out repeatedly about the dangers of conversion therapy, especially as it pertains to LGBTQ youth. Conversion therapy is in conflict with medical and scientific research, and instead of healing vulnerable patients/clients, it often leads to deeper despair and depression, even up to the point of suicidal ideation and attempts. Our responsibility as mental heath professionals, as educators, as Christians (for those who so identify, as I do), and as human beings is to protect the vulnerable among us from this dangerous practice.