The Lasting Harm of Conversion Therapy: What the Research Really Says

What Is Conversion Therapy?
Conversion therapy, also known as sexual orientation change efforts (SOCE), refers to a range of practices aimed at changing an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity. These practices are often rooted in religious or ideological beliefs rather than clinical science. Despite growing public awareness and legal bans in many areas, conversion therapy continues to be promoted, especially in conservative religious spaces.

What the Science Says: The Psychological Impact

A growing body of research has documented the harm caused by conversion therapy. According to a 2020 study published in JAMA Pediatrics, LGBTQ+ individuals who were subjected to conversion efforts were more than twice as likely to report experiencing depression, nearly three times more likely to report substance use, and more than twice as likely to attempt suicide compared to those who did not experience such efforts (Turban et al., 2020).

The American Psychological Association concluded in its 2009 Task Force Report that there is insufficient evidence to support the efficacy of any psychological intervention aimed at changing sexual orientation. However, there is consistent evidence that these efforts are associated with negative outcomes including anxiety, depression, hopelessness, and poor self-image.

Who Is Affected?
A national survey conducted by The Trevor Project in 2022 found that 13 percent of LGBTQ youth reported being subjected to conversion therapy. Of those, 83 percent said it occurred when they were minors. Young people are especially vulnerable to these practices, particularly when coerced by family or religious leaders.

This is not just a fringe issue. Research published in American Journal of Public Health estimates that nearly 700,000 adults in the United States have undergone conversion therapy, with about half experiencing it as minors (Mallory, Brown, & Conron, 2018).

Why It Persists
Despite widespread medical and psychological consensus, conversion therapy continues in many parts of the United States and globally. It is often disguised under terms like "reintegrative therapy," "spiritual counseling," or "healing ministry." These practices are not supported by any reputable mental health organization, including the American Medical Association, the National Association of Social Workers, and the American Psychiatric Association.

Legal protections vary by state. As of 2025, more than 20 states have banned conversion therapy for minors, but many others have not, leaving thousands of young people at risk.

The Path to Healing
Recovery from conversion therapy often requires time, therapy, and a supportive community. Survivors like Dr. Luke Wilson, who share their stories on platforms like Boy Meets Therapy, play a crucial role in breaking the silence and stigma. Healing often involves reclaiming identity, processing trauma, and learning to trust again.

Therapies that affirm LGBTQ identities, such as affirmative therapy or trauma-informed care, have been shown to improve mental health outcomes significantly. These approaches focus on empowerment, self-acceptance, and resilience.

Conclusion
Conversion therapy is not only ineffective but deeply harmful. Backed by decades of research, medical and psychological experts have been clear: LGBTQ identities are not pathologies to be cured. They are variations of human experience to be respected and supported.

If you or someone you know has been impacted by conversion therapy, know that healing is possible and help is available. Speaking out against these practices is not just a political act, it is a life-affirming one.

Final Thoughts

This episode of boy meets therapy offers more than just a personal account. It is a powerful reminder of the resilience it takes to reclaim your identity after trauma. Dr. Luke Wilson’s story puts a human face to the harm caused by conversion therapy and invites listeners to reflect on the intersections of faith, shame, and healing. Whether you are a survivor, a mental health professional, or someone seeking to understand, this conversation is an essential listen for anyone committed to affirming and protecting LGBTQ lives.

Sources:

Mallory, C., Brown, T. N. T., & Conron, K. J. (2018). Conversion therapy and LGBT youth. The Williams Institute, UCLA School of Law.

Turban, J. L., Beckwith, N., Reisner, S. L., & Keuroghlian, A. S. (2020). Association between recalled exposure to gender identity conversion efforts and psychological distress and suicide attempts among transgender adults. JAMA Psychiatry, 77(1), 68–76.

American Psychological Association. (2009). Report of the Task Force on Appropriate Therapeutic Responses to Sexual Orientation.