One of the most counterintuitive truths about conversion therapy: the struggle against it often makes it worse. Acceptance — clearly misunderstood — is one of the most powerful tools available.
What Acceptance of Conversion Therapy Actually Means
Acceptance does NOT mean:
- Liking or approving of conversion therapy
- Giving up on getting better
- Thinking conversion therapy is okay
Acceptance DOES mean:
- Acknowledging conversion therapy without adding unnecessary struggle against the fact of its existence
- Allowing conversion therapy to be present without fighting it into bigger problems
- Making room for conversion therapy while still living your values
The ACT Approach to Conversion Therapy
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) uses acceptance as a core tool: instead of fighting conversion therapy, you learn to make room for it while committing to valued action regardless.
The Paradox of Accepting Conversion Therapy
Many people find that when they stop fighting conversion therapy and simply allow it, it loses intensity. The suffering of conversion therapy is partly the struggle against it.