Conversion therapy should stay banned

Today, the Supreme Court struck down Colorado’s ban on conversion therapy — a ruling that has serious implications for the safety and wellbeing of LGBTQ youth and adults across the country. This decision will set a precedent which could affect 20 other states which have such a ban, including Wisconsin.  As an ally, as a family member, as a friend, and as a clinician I feel it is my duty to speak out regarding this serious development.

Conversion therapy is not therapy. It is not evidence‑based. It is not ethical. It isn't backed or endorsed by any serious professional organization.  And it has no place in modern clinical practice.

Every major professional organization has condemned conversion therapy for causing harm to clients.  This includes my own professional organization, the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), but also the American Psychological Association, the American Psychiatric Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics. The harm I refer to is not “potential harm," nor “theoretical harm.” It is documented, measurable, and lasting harm.

So when a ban on this practice is overturned, it isn’t a just a legal decision.  It increases risk of harm to vulnerable people, in this case LGBTQ youth in particular.  These individuals will be exposed to practices which are known to increase depression, anxiety, shame, and suicidality.  The worst thing is that often parents of these individuals believe that these practices are okay because otherwise, "why would the government let it happen?"

As a clinician and ally, I cannot stay silent about that.

At our clinic, we affirm the identities of LGBTQ clients. We support them in building lives that feel authentic, safe, and grounded in self‑acceptance. And we believe that therapy should never be used as a tool to coerce someone into denying who they are.

This ruling does not change our values. It does not change our standards of care. And it does not change our commitment to providing safe, affirming, evidence‑based treatment.  If anything, it strengthens our resolve.

To our LGBTQ brethren out there reading this: You deserve care that honors your identity, protects your well-being, and supports your growth.  You deserve therapy that helps you to live your best life, not therapy that tries to change who you are.

As for myself, I will continue to stand with you, advocate for you, and provide the kind of care that aligns with both the science of psychotherapy and with the ethics of my profession.  I cannot speak for my colleagues, but I feel like they would agree.  And I feel confident to say that most in my profession would also agree.

If you or someone you love is looking for affirming mental health support, our team is here. You are welcome here. You are safe here. And you will never be asked to change who you are in order to receive care.
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— Andrew S. Bailey, LCSW Founder & Clinical Director Wisconsin Anxiety and Depression Clinic

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