Conversion therapy aims to use psychological techniques to alter a person's sexual orientation and/or gender identity. These techniques lack evidence of effectiveness and have been shown to be harmful. Individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ are already vulnerable to depression and suicide due to discrimination, and using conversion therapy in an attempt to force these deep aspects of a person's identity to change can result in making them feel more ashamed, depressed, and alone. 

Dozens of medical and public health organizations (American Medical Association, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Psychiatric Association, National Association of Social Workers, American School Counselor Association, etc.) have all publicly stated that conversion therapy is harmful. Many states, most recently North Carolina, have already banned this practice in an effort to protect their citizens. Allowing conversion therapy to continue harms individuals and entire communities throughout Virginia and it must be banned.