What is illegal for mental health professionals to engage in with minors under the age of 18?

The engagement in sexual orientation change efforts, often referred to as "conversion therapy," is widely recognized as unethical and potentially harmful, particularly when applied to minors. Numerous health organizations, including the American Psychological Association and the American Medical Association, have condemned such practices, arguing that they can lead to significant psychological distress and do not have any credible scientific support.

In California, legislation explicitly prohibits mental health professionals from attempting to change a minor's sexual orientation or gender identity through any form of therapy. This legal framework aims to protect minors from practices that are deemed harmful and that can negatively impact their mental health and well-being.

While discussing sexual orientation, assessing gender identity, or providing therapy without parental consent can pose ethical and legal considerations, they are not outright illegal in the same way that conversion therapy is. Discussions and assessments related to sexual orientation and gender identity can be conducted with appropriate care and sensitivity, especially when considering the minor's maturity and understanding. Providing therapy without parental consent may have limits based on specific contexts, such as certain health care situations, but it is not illegal in the same sense as engaging in conversion therapy. Hence, the prohibition on sexual orientation change efforts clearly stands out as illegal and harmful practice for mental health professionals working with minors under 18.