Virginia Regulatory Town Hall
Agency
Department of Health Professions
 
Board
Board of Psychology
 
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3/19/19  3:19 pm
Commenter: Claire Kaplan

Conversion Therapy is Abuse
 

So-called "conversion therapy" is highly dangerous and abuse of an extreme nature. Reputable research on this technique shows that it not only fails in its goal but causes severe damage to the mental health of LGBTQ youth, not infrequently resulting in self-harm and suicidality. The Commonwealth has been working to improve our mental health system so that it serves all citizens appropriately. If our legislators genuinely support this goal, why would anyone consider this ideology (for that is what it is) to be a legitimate treatment modality, given that the outcomes are so dire? Conversion therapy is the tool for those who have an agenda of hate, no questions about it. It is time for the Commonwealth to exhibit common sense and ban this abusive treatment that is used against young people.

CommentID: 70226