Resolution on Protecting LGBTQ+ Minors & Young Adults from Conversion Therapy Practices
Excerpt
As a behavioral health organization that embeds its work in principles of human rights, respect, and self-determination, the Global Alliance firmly supports legislation protecting LGBTQ+ children, adolescents and young adults from being subject to conversion therapy by licensed professionals. Conversion therapy consists of practices employed by licensed professionals or clergy to change, suppress or divert an individual’s sexual orientation, gender identity or expression. Such practices have been disavowed by mental health and medical organizations for lacking scientific rigor and being unethical. Conversion therapy practices hold no therapeutic value and cause harm to individuals who are subject to them. It is our collective duty as a society to protect minors and young adults, who are vulnerable and still in development, from harm.