Policy and Position Statements on Conversion Therapy

The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, in its 2018 policy on "Conversion Therapies," states that there is no evidence supporting therapeutic interventions that treat sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression as pathological. Based on scientific evidence, the Academy asserts that such interventions lack credibility and utility and that evidence suggests they may cause harm. Consequently, "conversion therapies" should not be included in behavioral health treatments for children and adolescents.

The American Academy of Pediatrics, in its 1993 statement "Homosexuality and Adolescence," advises against therapy aimed at changing sexual orientation, noting that it can provoke guilt and anxiety while offering little to no meaningful results.

The American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy’s 2009 position states that homosexuality is not a disorder requiring treatment and, therefore, there is no basis for reparative therapy. Members are expected to practice based on credible research and evidence.

The American College of Physicians opposes conversion therapy, citing research demonstrating its ineffectiveness and potential harm, particularly for adolescents. Studies indicate that familial rejection significantly increases the risks of depression, suicide, and other health issues among LGBT youth.

The American Counseling Association opposes conversion therapy, citing ethical concerns and the lack of proven efficacy. Counselors are required to ensure informed consent, minimize harm, and adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics.

The American Medical Association opposes reparative or conversion therapy, recognizing homosexuality as not a mental disorder and recommending psychotherapy to help individuals accept their sexual orientation.

The American Psychiatric Association’s 2000 position emphasizes the lack of scientific support for reparative therapy and highlights its potential risks, including depression and self-harm. It opposes psychiatric treatments aimed at changing sexual orientation.

The American Psychoanalytic Association opposes efforts to change sexual orientation or gender identity, stating that such practices contradict psychoanalytic principles and often cause significant psychological harm.

The American Psychological Association affirms that same-sex attraction is a normal variation of human sexuality and opposes interventions aimed at changing sexual orientation. It also advises against portraying homosexuality as a mental illness and emphasizes ethical practices in addressing sexual orientation distress.

The American School Counselor Association advises school counselors to support LGBTQ students rather than attempt to change their sexual orientation or gender identity. Conversion therapy is regarded as harmful and ineffective.

The American School Health Association advocates for comprehensive, scientifically accurate sexuality education in schools. According to their 2007 guidelines, teachers are encouraged to provide unbiased instruction based on current research.

The National Association of Social Workers explicitly condemns reparative and conversion therapies, agreeing with the American Psychological Association that such practices are ineffective and emotionally harmful.

The Pan American Health Organization, a WHO regional office, asserts that conversion therapies lack medical justification and pose significant risks to health and human rights. These practices are considered unethical and warrant sanctions.

The Just the Facts Coalition, representing major health and education organizations, states that reparative therapy is based on rejected premises and is unnecessary, as homosexuality is not a mental disorder. The coalition emphasizes the importance of affirming and supportive approaches for LGBTQ individuals.