Supreme Court to Hear Case Challenging Bans on Conversion Therapy for Minors

The upcoming Supreme Court case, Chiles v. Salazar, could threaten laws in 23 states that prohibit conversion therapy on minors. The practice, proven through decades of research to be ineffective and harmful, involves attempts to change a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity. Despite widespread rejection by mental health professionals, a small group of fringe therapists, backed by conservative Christian legal groups, are challenging these bans, asserting a right to free speech in their counseling sessions.

Conversion therapy has been linked to increased risks of depression and suicidality. Major organizations, including the American Psychological Association, have issued reports condemning such practices, emphasizing that sexual orientation and gender identity are normal human variations. This stance has been reinforced by a joint statement signed by 28 medical and psychological associations, condemning conversion efforts.

Historically, conversion therapy was common until 1973, when homosexuality was declassified as a mental disorder. Today, the practice mainly manifests as religious or talk therapy, often targeting LGBTQ youth. Survivors describe its-lasting psychological scars, including shame, isolation, and internalized negative beliefs about their identities.

The case was brought by Christian therapist Kaley Chiles, represented by the Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF), a powerful legal organization known for their active opposition to LGBTQ rights and reproductive rights. They argue that Colorado’s law, which bans attempts to change minors’ gender or sexual orientation through talk therapy, infringes on free speech. Colorado and other advocates contend that the law is narrowly focused on preventing harmful, coercive practices aimed at forcing specific gender or sexual identities.

Many legal experts believe the Supreme Court’s conservative majority will likely side with the challengers, risking a rollback of these protections nationwide. This case could set a precedent that allows such bans to be overturned across the country, effectively permitting conversion therapy again in many regions. The Biden administration has also expressed support for the challengers, aligning with broader efforts to weaken LGBTQ protections.