Stories
Real people sharing their stories
From New Zealand and globally

What does a Conversion Therapy ban really mean?
We agree – all New Zealanders should be protected from coercive, abusive or involuntary psychological or spiritual practices. However, participation in psychological assessments, counselling sessions, prayer meetings and other therapeutic practices is almost always an expression of voluntary behaviour and personal freedom. ‘Conversion therapy’ bans would prevent people from getting help to live the lifestyle they choose – if that lifestyle is heterosexual or based on their biological sex.
Banning practices which bring about positive change for people in pain, changes they genuinely desire for themselves, is the real crime.

Your story
Have you benefited from counselling for unwanted sexuality and gender issues, and oppose a counselling ban that is being proposed in New Zealand. Tell us your story. (These could be provided anonymously).