Understanding Conversion Therapy: What It Is and Why It Matters

Conversion therapy comprises practices intended to change a person's sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression, and it has been described as an umbrella term for many methods. The ex‑gay movement expanded in the 1980s and 1990s, when ministries and counseling networks grew across the United States and other countries, and large groups such as Exodus International became influential before closing in 2013 with an apology from its leader.

Contemporary medical and forensic reviews find that these efforts are unsupported by evidence and can cause lasting psychological harm. Independent experts and professional bodies have reported links between conversion practices and higher rates of depression, substance misuse and suicide attempts, and the United Nations independent expert has said such interventions can be degrading and may amount to torture. Documented methods range from talk therapy to aversive procedures, detention and religious rituals, and some reviews identify serious physical and emotional abuse in extreme cases. Forensic groups have catalogued methods worldwide and shown the practice occurs in many regions.

In legal terms, many jurisdictions have responded by restricting licensed providers; in the United States more than twenty states have laws that ban or limit conversion therapy for minors. The U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments in Chiles v. Salazar on October 7, 2025, about the constitutionality of Colorado's 2019 ban, and justices pressed questions about free speech and the scope of professional regulation. A final ruling is expected by mid-2026, and the decision could affect similar state laws. Legal bans typically apply to licensed health professionals and often exempt clergy or religious programs.