Psychologists warn against 'gay therapy'

(New York Times) UPDATED 2009-08-05

The American Psychological Association (APA) has passed a resolution declaring that mental health professionals should not tell gay clients that they can become straight through therapy or other treatments. This resolution was the APA's most complete rejection of so-called "reparative therapy," which espouses the idea that gays and lesbians can change their sexual orientation. Reparative therapy is practiced by only a small number of therapist, many of whom are allied with religious conservatives. The APA says there is no solid evidence that the therapy works to change the orientation of gay clients, but that there is evidence the therapy can be harmful, inducing such problems as depression and suicidal tendencies. Read full story >

See all Depression News