The Michigan House of Representatives passed apackage of bills that would ban conversion therapy as a way to treat minors.
The American Medical Association definesconversion therapy as any intervention that attempts to change an individual’s sexual orientation, sexual behaviors or gender identity.
Felicia Brabec is a State House Representative from the 33rd District, which covers parts of Washtenaw County. She says this practice can have lifelong and life threatening consequences to those who are exposed to it.
“I hate to even call it a therapy. Again, it’s not evidence-based at all. As a practicing therapist, we are supposed to do no harm and this practice does do harm.”
Brabec says kids who are exposed to conversion therapy have higher rates of anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and suicide attempts.
“What we’re trying to do is protect our kids from dangerous, non-evidence-based practices when they go to therapy.”
She is optimistic that the Senate will take up the billin the near future.
Non-commercial, fact based reporting is made possible by your financial support. Make your donation to WEMU todayto keep your community NPR station thriving.
Like 89.1 WEMU on Facebook and follow us on Twitter
Contact WEMU News at734.487.3363 or email us at studio@wemu.org
