Supreme Court to Hear Case on Colorado's Conversion Therapy Ban

The U.S. Supreme Court is set to hear arguments in the case of *Chiles v. Salazar* on October 7, 2025, which challenges Colorado's 2019 law banning conversion therapy for minors. This law prohibits licensed mental health professionals from attempting to change a person's sexual orientation or gender identity. The case arises from a lawsuit filed by Kaley Chiles, a licensed professional counselor, who argues that the law infringes on her First Amendment rights by restricting her ability to engage in certain conversations with clients regarding gender and sexuality. The Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies, represented by Patty Salazar, is defending the law.

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A coalition of LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations, including One Colorado, PFLAG, and the National Center for LGBTQ Rights, filed an amicus brief in support of the law. They argue that conversion therapy is harmful, promoting family rejection and leading to negative outcomes such as increased rates of homelessness and mental health issues among LGBTQ+ youth. The brief states, “Rather than strengthening family bonds, conversion therapy fractures them,” emphasizing the long-term societal harms associated with the practice.

Colorado NewslineLGBTQ Groups Ask Court to Uphold Conversion Therapy BanThe AdvocateThe Politics of Pinkwashing – How Brands Exploit LGBTQ+ Visibility Without Real ChangeThe Guardian

Chiles and her legal team, represented by the conservative Alliance Defending Freedom, contend that the law favors certain viewpoints over others, thereby violating free speech rights. They argue that the law restricts counselors from providing support to clients who wish to align their identities with their biological sex. This perspective is echoed by other conservative groups that have filed briefs in support of Chiles, asserting that the law constitutes an infringement on religious and personal freedoms.

LGBTQ Groups Ask Court to Uphold Conversion Therapy Ban

The case is significant as it marks the first time the Supreme Court will address the constitutionality of conversion therapy bans, following similar rulings in lower courts that upheld such laws. The outcome could set a precedent affecting not only conversion therapy practices but also broader discussions around free speech and religious rights in the context of LGBTQ+ issues. The American Medical Association and other health organizations have long opposed conversion therapy, citing its lack of efficacy and potential for harm.

The Advocate

Research indicates that individuals subjected to conversion therapy are at a heightened risk for negative health outcomes, including depression and suicidal ideation. Critics argue that the practice is rooted in outdated beliefs and can lead to severe emotional and psychological damage. Bruce Parker, chief operating officer of Rocky Mountain Equality, stated, “Conversion therapy is not therapy, it is abuse,” reinforcing the view that such practices should be banned to protect vulnerable youth.

Colorado Newsline

As the Supreme Court prepares to hear the case, the legal community and LGBTQ+ advocates are closely monitoring the proceedings. The decision could have far-reaching consequences for conversion therapy laws across the United States, influencing ongoing debates about LGBTQ+ rights, mental health care, and the intersection of free speech and professional ethics.

Colorado Newsline