The Human Rights Campaign requested that Psychology Today remove a listing for an ex-gay therapist, and to stop accepting ads from therapists that offer “reparative,” “conversion,” or “ex-gay” therapy. Initially the publication was reluctant to do so as it said that it had no control over these listings. However Psychology Today has now removed the listing and posted a statement on its website yesterday saying,
“Psychology Todaydoes not endorse or publish ads for reparative therapy in print, online or in professionals’ profiles. The Therapy Directory has removed the individual whose profile included a discussion of conversion therapy. We have informed all Directory professionals that those whose profiles offer conversion therapy will be delisted.”
HRC officials welcomed the move. “So-called ‘conversion therapy’ is a dangerous and discredited practice that puts vulnerable people, including children, at terrible risk,” said Fred Sainz, HRC vice president for communications and marketing, in a press release today. ”Not only is there no evidence that a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity or expression can be ‘cured,’ but research also shows that attempting to do so can lead to depression and even suicidal thoughts, particularly in young people.”
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