Action | Unprofessional conduct/conversion therapy |
Stage | NOIRA |
Comment Period | Ended on 8/7/2019 |
I'm writing to voice my support for a ban on “conversion therapy” or attempting to change the sexual orientation or gender identity of a minor. “Conversion therapy” uses shame and psychological abuse to try to force vulnerable young people to change who they are, with potentially devastating consequences. “Conversion therapy” can lower self-esteem, cause depression and increase the risk of substance abuse or suicide. Mental health professionals have an obligation to provide ethical care for young people regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, and “conversion therapy” is extremely unethical.