Our young people should be protected from any practice that puts them at risk of fatal harm. Conversion therapy for sexual and gender orientation has been shown to be ineffective and considerably harmful to those who are subject to it. In fact, the American Psychiatric Association has opposed it and this type of therapy is banned in a significant number of states (currently 18 states), the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and over 60 counties, municipalities and other communities.

This type of therapy puts our young people and risk for death by suicide or other self-destructive behaviors due to the increased rates of depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues associated with this dangerous and ineffective practice.

We need to protect our youth and their concerned parents from exploitation by mental health practitioners offering them this sham program.