The Supreme Court has ruled that Colorado’s “conversion therapy” ban violates the First Amendment guarantee of free speech. By an 8-1 majority, the Court found that Colorado engaged in “viewpoint discrimination” by forbidding talk therapy to help clients who desire to lessen or change unwanted sexual attractions or behaviors or to grow in “harmony with [their] bod[ies],” while permitting therapy that accepts, supports, or facilitates a client’s same-sex desires or “gender transition.”
“This decision brings hope and relief to families and adolescents seeking therapy that supports—rather than undermines—their religious beliefs. The Court’s eight to one ruling clearly rejects state censorship of therapists. They are now free to offer talk therapy that aligns with the truth, not ideology. We’re grateful for the Court’s ruling.” — PIP co-founders Mary Hasson and Theresa Farnan
Why it matters: Gender ideology has caused psychological distress and serious harm to thousands of vulnerable adolescents and their families. 23 states have “gag rules” forbidding talk therapy that supports Christian anthropology—while endorsing therapy that “affirms” sex-rejection and same-sex behaviors—leaving families with few supportive options. This ruling renders those laws constitutionally suspect, and frees therapists to offer talk therapy that aligns with clients’ beliefs, without fear of professional sanction.
To read the Supreme Court decision in Chiles v. Salazar, click here.
To read the amicus brief filed by scholars Mary Hasson, Theresa Farnan, Susan Selner-Wright, and Eric Kniffin in the Chiles case, click here.
To read the amicus brief filed by EPPC in Chiles, click here.
