These dangerous and discredited practices are based on the false and ENTIRELY DISCREDITED  claim that being lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer (LGBTQ) is a mental illness that needs to be cured—a view with no scientific basis.

> If you believe in a Supreme Being who created humanity, then the Almighty created you AS YOU WERE MEANT TO BE! How dare any mere mortal argue with what the Almighty has made! 

> If you don't believe in that, then you have ABSOLUTELY NO BASIS for wanting to change another human being into YOUR  own likeness!

This guidance protects young people from state-licensed therapists in Virginia who falsely claim to parents and youth that being LGBTQ is a mental illness, and therefore taking advantage of parents and harming vulnerable youth.

These harmful practices use REJECTION, SHAME, and PSYCHOLOGICAL ABUSE to force young people to try and change WHO THEY ARE.

These practices are known to be extremely dangerous and can lead to depression, decreased self-esteem, substance abuse, and even suicide attempts.

No young person should ever be shamed by ANYONE, much less a mental health "professional", into thinking that who they are is wrong. Mental health professionals should provide care that is ethical and affirming for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender young people. 

We can’t allow one more person to be targeted and hurt by these dangerous and discredited practices. 

Sincerely, Jantique Fielding 

Registered Voter ??