Policy on Prohibition of Conversion Therapy

The Association for IEMT Practitioners

Effective Date: January 1, 2025
Review Date: January 1, 2027
Version: 1.0

Policy Statement

The Association for IEMT Practitioners unequivocally opposes the practice of Conversion Therapy. Conversion therapy (which seeks to change or suppress an individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity) is unethical, harmful, and fundamentally incompatible with the values and practices of Integral Eye Movement Technique (IEMT).

IEMT is a therapeutic modality dedicated to supporting clients in a manner that is affirming, client-led, and respectful of each individual's unique identity. It focuses on assisting clients in resolving emotional and psychological issues through guided eye movements, without attempting to change or suppress any aspect of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Therefore, IEMT practices are fundamentally different from and cannot be aligned with conversion therapy.

This policy applies to all members practicing globally, ensuring that everyone is treated with respect, dignity, and care, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. While this policy references UK legislation, it applies equally to practitioners in all countries. Practitioners are expected to be aware of and comply with the laws and regulations regarding conversion therapy in their respective countries. This policy aligns with international human rights standards and professional ethical guidelines that condemn conversion therapy.

By adhering to this policy, The Association for IEMT Practitioners reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding the rights and well-being of all individuals, celebrating diversity as an integral part of the human experience.

Definition of Conversion Therapy

Conversion therapy refers to any practice, treatment, or sustained effort that attempts to change or suppress an individual's:

  • Sexual Orientation: For example, efforts to change someone from homosexual or bisexual to heterosexual.
  • Gender Identity: For example, efforts to change someone from transgender or non-binary to cisgender.

These practices are psychologically harmful and have been widely discredited by mental health organizations worldwide.

This policy does not prohibit therapeutic interventions that support an individual in exploring their sexual orientation or gender identity, provided these interventions are:

  • Client-Led: Directed by the client's own goals and needs.
  • Affirming: Respectful and supportive of the client's sexual orientation and gender identity.
  • Non-Directive Regarding Outcomes: Do not attempt to steer the client toward a specific sexual orientation or gender identity.

Practitioners are encouraged to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can openly explore and express their feelings and thoughts about their sexual orientation and gender identity without judgment or pressure.

Legal Context

United Kingdom

The UK government has recognized the detrimental effects of conversion therapy and is in the process of enacting legislation to ban such practices. As of the effective date of this policy, the government has committed to introducing the Conversion Therapy (Prohibition) Bill, which will make it illegal to perform, offer, or promote conversion therapy practices.

This policy aligns with the UK's commitment as outlined in the report titled “Conversion Therapy” (House of Commons, 2023), recognising conversion therapy as a violation of individual rights and professional ethics.

Legal Obligations in the UK:

  • Compliance with Legislation: Practitioners must comply with the Conversion Therapy (Prohibition) Bill once enacted, as well as existing laws such as the Equality Act 2010, which protects individuals from discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
  • Professional Duty: Non-compliance may result in legal action, including criminal prosecution and civil liability, alongside professional disciplinary measures.

International Context

For practitioners operating outside the UK, this policy aligns with international human rights standards and professional ethical guidelines that condemn conversion therapy. Practitioners are expected to be aware of and comply with the laws and regulations regarding conversion therapy in their respective countries, including any laws that prohibit such practices.

International Legal Obligations:

  • Awareness of Local Laws: Practitioners must familiarize themselves with and adhere to all applicable laws related to conversion therapy in their jurisdiction.
  • Human Rights Standards: Compliance with international human rights conventions that protect individuals from harmful practices and discrimination.

Applicability

This policy applies to all members, associates, and practitioners affiliated with The Association for IEMT Practitioners, regardless of the country in which they practice. All practitioners must adhere to this policy irrespective of the client's background, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

Referrals and Recommendations: Practitioners must not refer or recommend clients to any third-party therapist, organization, or program that practices or promotes conversion therapy. Doing so constitutes a violation of this policy.

Prohibited Practices

Practices prohibited under this policy include, but are not limited to:

  • Attempting to Alter Sexual Orientation or Gender Identity: Any effort to change or suppress a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity through therapeutic interventions.
  • Use of Harmful Techniques: Employing psychological, behavioural, or aversive techniques designed to change or suppress an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity. Examples of aversive techniques include electroshock therapy, shame-based methods, or any form of physical or emotional abuse.
  • Misrepresentation of IEMT: Offering, promoting, or condoning conversion therapy under the guise of IEMT or any related therapeutic practice.

Ethical and Professional Considerations

IEMT practitioners are bound by ethical guidelines that promote the well-being of clients. Practitioners must:

  • Provide a Safe Environment: Create a therapeutic space that is safe, supportive, and non-judgmental.
  • Affirm Client's Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity: Respect and affirm the sexual orientation, gender identity, and self-expression of all clients.
  • Client-Led Goals: Ensure that therapeutic goals are determined by the client, especially when exploring aspects of their sexual orientation or gender identity, without imposing the practitioner’s personal beliefs, biases, or assumptions.
  • Avoid Harmful Practices: Reject any practice that causes harm or seeks to diminish an individual’s sense of self-worth.

Engaging in or promoting conversion therapy is a breach of these ethical principles and will be treated as professional misconduct.

Consequences of Violation

Any practitioner found to be engaging in or endorsing conversion therapy will face disciplinary actions, including:

  • Membership Actions: Suspension or revocation of membership with The Association for IEMT Practitioners.
  • Reporting to Authorities: Reporting to relevant regulatory bodies, which may include legal implications under the Conversion Therapy (Prohibition) Bill or equivalent legislation.
  • Legal Consequences: Practitioners may face civil or criminal liability, including lawsuits, fines, or prosecution under applicable laws prohibiting conversion therapy.

Support for Practitioners

The Association for IEMT Practitioners is committed to providing resources, training, and support to help practitioners understand and apply this policy effectively. Members are encouraged to engage in continuous professional development that promotes inclusivity and understanding of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities.

Available Support Includes:

  • Educational Workshops: Regular workshops and seminars on LGBTQ+ sensitivity, inclusive practices, and ethical guidelines.
  • Resource Materials: Access to up-to-date materials, research, and guidelines on working effectively with LGBTQ+ clients.
  • Consultation Services: Opportunities to consult with experienced professionals on best practices and ethical considerations.
  • Helpline for Guidance: A dedicated helpline for practitioners seeking advice or clarification on matters related to this policy.

Reporting Concerns

If a practitioner or client becomes aware of any violation of this policy, they are encouraged to report the matter to The Association for IEMT Practitioners' Ethics Committee for investigation and appropriate action. All reports will be handled confidentially and with sensitivity.

Reporting Options:

  • Anonymous Reporting: Individuals may choose to report concerns anonymously if they prefer, recognizing that anonymity may limit the scope of the investigation.
  • Confidential Process: The identity of the reporter will be protected to the fullest extent possible, consistent with the need to conduct a thorough investigation.

Timeframes:

  • Prompt Reporting Encouraged: Reports should be made as soon as possible after becoming aware of a potential violation.
  • Investigation Timelines: The Ethics Committee will acknowledge receipt of the report within 7 days and aim to complete the investigation within 60 days, notifying the involved parties of any delays.

Consistency in Terminology: This document consistently uses the terms "sexual orientation" and "gender identity" throughout to ensure clarity and uniform understanding.