Conversion therapy is a pseudoscientific and discredited practice that attempts to force LGBTQ+ individuals to change their sexual orientation or gender identity and instead identify as heterosexual or cisgender. Because it is now understood that sexual orientation is not a choice or something that can be changed, so-called conversion therapy—sometimes called reparative therapy, ex-gay therapy, or
What Is Conversion Therapy? (Plain Language Explanation)
Conversion Therapy refers to a pattern of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that many people experience. While it can be challenging, it's also well-understood and treatable.
Key Terms to Know About Conversion Therapy
- Symptoms: The specific ways conversion therapy shows up for you
- Triggers: Situations or thoughts that activate or worsen conversion therapy
- Evidence-based: Treatments backed by scientific research
- Comorbidity: When conversion therapy occurs alongside other conditions
3 Things Most People Don't Know About Conversion Therapy
- Conversion Therapy is far more common than most people realize
- Conversion Therapy is not caused by weakness — it has identifiable biological and psychological causes
- Most people with conversion therapy see significant improvement with the right support
Your Next Steps
Learning about conversion therapy is just the beginning. If you think you're experiencing conversion therapy, speaking with a mental health professional is the most valuable next step.