Therapists are split on this form of therapy. Those who oppose the bill say reparation therapy to convert gays and lesbians to being straight works. But supporters say it leads to suicide.
The fight over therapy designed to convert teens from gay to straight has been controversial and emotional.
Senator Ted Lieu from Torrance authored SB-1172, after seeing the consequences of this reparative therapy.
Sen. Ted Lieu, (D) Torrance: "Teens that go through this, and even adults, can get feelings of shame, of guilt and in extreme cases, this can lead to suicide."
Some have even gone as far as hiding cameras in therapy sessions, and then posting the videos on the internet.
Opponents of the bill say the therapy works for those that want it.
Reparative therapist David Pickup says the bill could deny therapy to a minor who has been sexually molested, and now has identity questions,
David Pickup, Therapist: "Authentic reparative therapy, is absolutely based on science, good research and it works."
But it's been disavowed by the American Psychiatric Association.
Cheryl Lennon-Armas is with the Tulare County Youth Services Bureau.
She says it's healthier to support teens as they accept whether they are homosexual.
Cheryl Lennon-Armas, Tulare Youth Services Bureau: "I think that it's going to be a tough pill to swallow if parents are told you can't do this for your child, if you truly believe that they can be changed from being gay to being straight."
The Youth Services Bureau is home to the support group called Out Loud.
Suicide prevention advocate Eric James Borges attended meetings at the Bureau.
But the pressure he faced for being gay eventually led to his own suicide.
He volunteered with The Trevor Project, whose executive director says, this bill has the potential to prevent suicides.
Abbe Land, Executive Director, The Trevor Project: "This is another way of having young people know that they are just perfect the way they are."
The bill passed the Senate Judiciary Committee yesterday. It goes to the Senate floor at the end of the month.
In the meantime, for anyone in need of support, you can call The Trevor Project Lifeline at 866-488-7386.
Tulare and Kings counties offer resources and support for anyone having trouble gaining acceptance.
The Tulare and Kings County Suicide Prevention Task Force will have the family acceptance project all next week.
The group called Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays will have a special meeting May 20th.
For information on these events, just click above on "News Links."
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