Conversion Therapy: UK Laws And The Fight For Mental Health Justice

While the UK government announced its intention to ban conversion therapy and other conversion practices, these laws have yet to be enacted at the national level. However, progress is underway, with legislative efforts in motion to end conversion therapy. Below, explore the steps being taken across the UK to affirm the rights and identities of LGBTQ+ individuals and the scientific research legislators, experts, and advocates are using to inform these efforts. Additionally, find guidance for navigating conflicting beliefs about LGBTQ+ identities, as well as resources for accessing evidence-based mental health support. 

What is conversion therapy?

Conversion therapy, also known as reparative therapy or “gay-cure therapy,” refers to interventions aimed at changing a client’s sexual orientation or gender identity, often motivated by religious or cultural beliefs. Methods can include behavioral modification, hypnosis, and physical interventions, and are widely discredited by research and considered harmful by mental health professionals. Research indicates that conversion therapy often leads to significant psychological distress, including anxiety, depression, and trauma. Many countries, including the UK, have banned this practice through a draft bill to protect LGBTQ+ individuals from its damaging effects and encourage real talking therapies through therapists licensed with psychotherapy bodies instead. 

Conversion therapy: UK legislative progress and advocacy

The UK is making strides toward banning conversion therapy at the national level for all healthcare professionals, professional bodies, and clients. The Labour government — which came to power in 2024 — introduced a Conversion Practices Bill in May of that year, aiming to prohibit practices intended to suppress or change an individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity. 

In Scotland, the government completed a consultation on banning conversion therapy in April 2024, meaning that the Scottish government is committed to progressing toward a legislative ban on conversion therapy practices. Wales is also working towards implementing a conversion therapy ban. The Northern Ireland Assembly passed a motion supporting a ban on conversion therapy, signaling a strong commitment to equality and human rights. 

Advocacy groups such as Stonewall and major counseling bodies, including the British Psychological Society and the National Health Service (NHS). have condemned conversion therapy as harmful. The Church of England has also condemned the practice, further amplifying calls for legislative action. 

What the research shows about conversion therapy and mental health

Research consistently shows that conversion therapy is both ineffective and harmful. Those who offered conversion therapy in the past did so under potentially harmful systems and often against standards set by the British Psychological Society and other governing bodies. A systematic review of studies on sexual orientation change efforts (SOCE) concluded that attempts to alter sexual orientation are not successful and carry significant risks, including depression, anxiety, suicidality, social isolation, and diminished capacity for intimacy. Out of 47 peer-reviewed studies reviewed, 12 directly identified these harmful outcomes, while only one study—criticized for its biases and methodological flaws—claimed limited success among religious participants.

Research also highlights methodological challenges, such as reliance on self-reports and lack of control groups, which undermine claims of success. Some studies indicate that severe techniques may suppress same-sex attraction but fail to increase heterosexual arousal or lead to fulfilling relationships. Professional organizations, including the American Psychological Association, universally denounce the practice, emphasizing its risks over any claimed benefits.

Is it possible to change your sexual orientation or gender identity?

Scientific research overwhelmingly indicates that it is not possible to change a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity through so-called conversion therapy or any other method. Studies on sexual orientation change efforts (SOCE) reveal that while individuals may attempt to suppress or alter their orientation — and in some cases may identify as heterosexual during the interventions — these efforts do not change their underlying sexual orientation. Instead, participants often report suppression, disconnection, and inauthenticity during and after the process.

Similarly, gender identity change efforts (GICE) are equally ineffective and harmful, regardless of one’s sex recorded at birth. While individuals may attempt to conform to societal or external expectations regarding their gender, these efforts do not alter their innate gender identity. Transgender respondents often experience significant emotional distress, leading to serious mental health challenges.

Research affirms that sexual orientation and gender identity are natural variations within the spectrum of human diversity. Attempts to alter them, particularly through SOCE, are not only ineffective but also harmful, leading to increased distress, stigma, and mental health challenges. Experts recommend prioritizing approaches that affirm diverse identities and ending practices that criminalize or pathologize them. Reducing societal stigma is crucial in diminishing the demand for harmful and discredited interventions like SOCE.

How to navigate conflicting beliefs about LGBTQ+ identities

Conflicting beliefs about LGBTQ+ identities often stem from differences in cultural, religious, or personal values. For individuals navigating these conflicts — whether internally or within close relationships — it can be challenging to balance their deeply held beliefs with the need to support and affirm LGBTQ+ individuals. However, bridging these divides with open communication, empathy, and education can be possible.

Reflect on your beliefs and biases

Self-reflection can be a positive first step when seeking to reconcile conflicting beliefs. You might consider where your views on LGBTQ+ identities originate—cultural norms, religious teachings, personal experiences—and how they shape your feelings. You may find that reflecting honestly helps you identify any biases or assumptions that may impact your feelings surrounding LGBTQ+ issues.

Seek to understand LGBTQ+ experiences

Cultivating empathy and curiosity can be pivotal for fostering meaningful connections with those whose identities may contradict your beliefs. Make good-faith efforts to understand their lived experience, such as their background, challenges, and perspectives. With greater understanding, you may find it easier to cultivate compassion and acceptance. See them as fellow human beings first, not your beliefs. 

Identify common ground

Focus on the values and goals you share with LGBTQ+ individuals, such as respect, love, and the desire for a fulfilling life. Even if beliefs differ, emphasizing these shared principles can create a foundation for connection and meaningful dialogue, regardless of whether you’re part of a different political or religious group. Common ground allows you to approach discussions as allies rather than adversaries.

Seek support

Navigating conflicting beliefs can be challenging, especially when emotions are involved. You might seek support from trusted friends, community leaders, or professionals like counselors or mediators with experience with LGBTQ+ issues. They can provide guidance, facilitate difficult conversations, and help you balance your values with respect and affirmation for others. LGBTQ+-affirming organizations can offer resources and insights to support your journey.

Accessing LGBTQ+-affirming evidence-based mental health support

With evidence-based mental health support, navigating life’s challenges and improving your well-being may be more manageable. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of many research-backed therapeutic approaches that mental health professionals use to help people manage stress, challenge negative thoughts, and build healthy coping mechanisms. Whether you’re exploring your identity, facing stigma, or seeking treatment for anxiety or depression, you may consider reaching out to a therapist or counselor for support. 

If you face barriers to in-person support, you can try online therapy platforms like BetterHelp, which offers access to LGBTQ+-affirming therapists who provide evidence-based support in a safe and inclusive environment. Online therapy is known to be as effective as in-person therapy and may be preferable for those who want the convenience and affordability of teletherapy. With this modality, you can attend weekly therapy sessions by phone, video, or live chat. You can also benefit from a suite of tools and features like guided journaling, digital therapy worksheets, and daily messaging with your therapist. 

Takeaway

The movement to ban conversion therapy in the UK reflects a growing commitment to affirming LGBTQ+ rights and protecting individuals from harmful practices. While progress varies across regions, the research is clear: efforts to change sexual orientation or gender identity are ineffective, harmful, and widely condemned. Inclusive mental health support from mental health professionals can be crucial for those who have faced stigma related to their identity, with online therapy offering a way to access evidence-based, LGBTQ+-affirming mental health care.