Virginia Regulatory Town Hall
Agency
Department of Health Professions
 
Board
Board of Psychology
 
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3/19/19  2:50 pm
Commenter: Matthew Stewart

End the harmful practice of conversion therapy
 

Conversion therapy and associated practices with the intention to instill doubt and shame in the minds of LGBTQ individuals has no place in modern psychiatric practice or the Commonwealth of Virginia. Conversion therapy has been discredited and condemned at every turn by reputable professional organizations like the APA, and has no proof of success from credible and valid research. To be clear, churches and faith organizations would still be allowed to espouse their beliefs on reparative/conversion therapy regardless of the changes in this professional practice guidance, so your spiritual freedom is not threatened in any way. However, licensed therapists and psychiatric professionals have an ethical and moral duty to both beneficent and non-maleficent practice, which must preclude them from utilizing or recommending conversion therapy.

CommentID: 70216