The organisation has argued that this choice will leave LGBTQIA therapists and clients feeling abandoned
BY ELLA GAUCI, IMAGE BY PEXELS
The United Kingdom Council For Psychotherapy (UKCP) has declared its withdrawal as a signatory of the Memorandum Of Understanding On Conversion Therapy (MoU2) and has exited the coalition. This decision was reportedly due to their objection to MoU2’s inclusion of banning so-called conversion “therapy” against children.
Pink Therapy, a directory of LGBTQIA-friendly therapists, has spoken out against this decision.
“The UKCP, alongside Pink Therapy, were founding members of the Coalition Against Conversion Therapy, which has always included protections for young people,” director Dominic Davies said in a statement. “Those of us who have been involved in the development of the MOU from the very start have always been clear about the need to protect those most vulnerable from conversion therapy – children and young people, and in particular LGBTQIA children and young people.”
Conversion “therapy” refers to the methods used to try to change someone’s gender identity or sexuality. Pink Therapy has argued that this decision by UKCP could leave LGBTQIA clients and therapists feeling abandoned and marginalised.
“Instead of consulting with those who have expertise, both scientific research and lived experience, or even their own membership, the UKCP has released a regressive response to a shared declaration which has been in existence for eight years,” Dominic added. “If the UKCP had issues with the MOU2 surely these could have been discussed and revised in the thoughtful and calm manner, we would expect from the psychotherapeutic profession.”
According to Ban Conversion Therapy, 7% of LGBT people have been offered or undergone conversion therapy.
Pink Therapy has asked that the UKCP “acknowledge their error” and ensure that “everyone is protected from conversion therapy”.
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