If you’re considering coming out and/or you’re accepting for yourself that you’re gay, lesbian, or transgender, you likely have come across information regarding conversion or reparative therapy. This type of so-called treatment continues to exist in Dallas, despite there being multiple lawsuits, claims of harm, and a lack of success. If you’re at this critical period of self-examination and you’re unsure of you’re sexual orientation or gender identity or you are sure, but you’re scared of the implications of this, please seek out only an LGBTQIA-affirming therapist. These affirming therapists are trained and have experience helping people with complicated issues that are specific to LGBTQIA individuals and their relationships. These issues can include coming out to friends and family, coming out while married, accepting yourself as you are, taking steps to transition to match your true gender, and dealing with the shame that can come from discrimination and feeling different.
You may also be looking for help for LGBT specific issues if you’re in a relationship with someone who thinks that she/he may be gay, in a relationship with someone who thinks she/he/they may be transgender, or you have a child who is unsure of his/her/they’re sexual orientation or gender identity. In this genuine effort to help, you may have come across information regarding conversion or reparative therapy. I can understand the temptation in considering these kinds of “therapy”, however I strongly encourage you to avoid this. This type of practice has been based on research that is largely invalid. In fact, more valid research shows that the shame that people endure during conversion therapy is much more harmful, and even traumatic in many cases. Many times, they also build their theories on how to help people on “pop psychology” ideas about gender norms, and hugely mix up gender norms and sexual orientation. They often treat LGBT issues as if they are a type of attachment issue and treatable illness. Please know that the research against this type of treatment has shown to be more harmful than helpful.
This page is not to shame anyone who is reading this. It’s understandable how this approach would seem appealing. If you’re reading this, you’re likely scared for yourself, or even your loved one. You likely have seen discomfort, shame, and even hostility that those in the LGBT community can face. This can make it seem as though changing your sexual orientation or gender identity, so that you wouldn’t have to deal with the complications of coming out, would make life so much easier. However, the pain that can come from this can make life extremely shameful, and can leave you or your loved one feeling alone, hopeless, and angry.
If you’re in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, and you’re looking for a conversion or reparative therapist, please contact us first. We will help you through this in a way that doesn’t incriminate or shame you for considering this option, but that also can help you see the benefits of living an authentic life as well.