Information and Resources

‘Conversion therapy’ does not always look the same. It can take a number of different forms and show up in many different places. For this reason, we think of ‘conversion therapy’ as any practice—which could include prayer or ‘talk therapy’ or workshops, among many others —that starts with an assumption that being Two-Spirit*, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer (2S/LGBTQ) is bad, wrong, or just unwanted. 

We created this page for survivors of ‘conversion therapy,’ as well as those who experienced anti-2S/LGBTQ practices and aren’t sure whether it was ‘conversion therapy’ or not. You may also have ‘conversion therapy’ survivors in your life, and reading the information on this page could help you better support them.

Common Questions

What Is Conversion Therapy?

Conversion therapy is a discredited and harmful practice that aims to change an individual’s sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. It is often based on the belief that being LGBTQ+ is a mental illness or a sin that can and should be cured.

Conversion therapy can take many forms, including talk therapy, aversion therapy, and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Some conversion therapy practices involve subjecting individuals to extreme or abusive measures, such as physical or emotional violence, in an attempt to force them to change their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Conversion therapy is widely recognized as a harmful and unethical practice by leading medical and mental health organizations, including the American Psychological Association, the World Health Organization, and the Canadian Psychological Association. Research has shown that conversion therapy can cause significant harm, including increased risk of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and suicidal ideation.

Furthermore, conversion therapy is often based on harmful stereotypes and misinformation about LGBTQ+ people, which can lead to increased stigma and discrimination. Conversion therapy can also lead to a sense of shame, self-hatred, and trauma in the individuals subjected to it.

Conversion therapy is illegal in Canada. In 2020, the Canadian government passed a bill to criminalize conversion therapy, making it a punishable offense to subject someone to conversion therapy or to force someone to undergo conversion therapy against their will.

However, it’s important to note that some religious or conservative organizations may continue to promote conversion therapy or offer related services. It’s important for individuals to seek support from qualified mental health professionals and organizations that are LGBTQ+ affirming and supportive.

If you or someone you know has been subjected to conversion therapy, it’s important to seek support from qualified mental health professionals and organizations that are LGBTQ+ affirming and supportive.

Findings from the SOGIECE Survivor Support Project


In 2021-22, Jordan Sullivan spearheaded a groundbreaking national initiative aimed at developing comprehensive support systems for Two-Spirit and LGBTQ+ individuals in Canada who have been harmed by so-called “conversion therapy” and other forms of change or denial efforts. Recognizing the deep and lasting impact of these practices—which seek to suppress, alter, or deny a person’s sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression—Sullivan and his team undertook extensive research to better understand the specific needs of survivors.

As part of this project, his team conducted surveys and in-depth interviews with hundreds of individuals who had experienced these harmful practices. This research provided crucial insight into the psychological, emotional, and social challenges faced by survivors, as well as the gaps in existing support structures. By centering the voices of those directly affected, the project aimed to inform the development of trauma-informed, survivor-led healing initiatives.

The findings from this initiative have helped shape national discussions on survivor care, policy reform, and community-based interventions. Sullivan’s work has contributed to a growing movement that seeks not only to end conversion practices in Canada but also to ensure that those who have endured them receive the resources and support necessary for their healing and recovery. His leadership in this area continues to influence advocacy efforts, mental health services, and policy development aimed at protecting and empowering LGBTQ+ and Two-Spirit communities.

The Scope of ‘Conversion Therapy’ in Canada

 

Research has shown that thousands of people across Canada have been subjected to ‘conversion therapy,’ with devastating effects on their mental health and well-being. Two key studies provide a deeper understanding of its prevalence and impact:

  • The Scope & Nature of ‘Conversion Therapy’ in Canada – Findings from interviews with 22 survivors (2020): Read the study
  • How Many People in Canada Have Experienced ‘Conversion Therapy’? – A national survey of over 9,000 people (2019-20): Read the study
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For more information, visit the Community-Based Research Centre’s ‘Conversion Therapy’/SOGIECE page.

 

Looking for More Resources?

Explore additional articles, reports, and media that shed light on ‘conversion therapy,’ its harms, and how to support survivors:

By raising awareness, supporting survivors, and advocating for change, we can work toward a future free from harmful conversion practices.

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Acknowledgments

This page was compiled with generous feedback from:

Reilla Archibald

Jordan Sullivan

Ben Rodgers

Elisabeth Dromer

Nick Schiavo

Travis Salway

We are grateful for financial support from the Community-Engaged Research Initiative at Simon Fraser University.