Supreme Court to Review Colorado’s Ban on LGBTQ ‘Conversion Therapy’: A Landmark Religious Freedom Case
Introduction
In a groundbreaking development, the U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to review a legal challenge against the state of Colorado’s ban on LGBTQ “conversion therapy” for minors. The case, which has sparked widespread debate across the United States, could significantly impact religious freedom, parental rights, and professional counseling practices.
The ban, passed in Colorado in 2019, prohibits licensed therapists from attempting to change a minor’s sexual orientation or gender identity through counseling, often referred to as “conversion therapy.” Now, the Supreme Court’s decision to hear the case could have far-reaching consequences for faith-based counseling and freedom of speech.
Background of the Case
In 2019, the Colorado General Assembly passed a law prohibiting licensed mental health professionals from engaging in “conversion therapy” practices aimed at changing the sexual orientation or gender identity of minors. The law was part of a broader movement to protect LGBTQ youth from harmful and scientifically discredited practices.
However, in 2023, Christian therapist Kaley Chiles, who operates a faith-based counseling service in Colorado, filed a lawsuit challenging the ban. Chiles, a devout Christian, argued that the law violated her First Amendment rights by limiting what she could say in therapy sessions when approached by minors seeking help with same-sex attraction or gender confusion.
Chiles contended that some minors genuinely desire to align their sexual feelings or gender identity with their religious beliefs. She asserted that preventing her from offering guidance consistent with her faith was not only a restriction on free speech but also an infringement on religious liberty.
The Supreme Court’s Decision to Hear the Case
On March 10, 2025, the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) agreed to hear Chiles’ case. This decision has since sparked widespread debates among Christian organizations, LGBTQ advocacy groups, and legal experts.
Supporters of the Ban argue that conversion therapy is a harmful practice and that the state has a duty to protect minors from such psychological harm. Organizations like the American Psychological Association (APA) and the American Medical Association (AMA) have long condemned conversion therapy as damaging and unethical.
Opponents of the Ban, however, assert that the government is infringing upon freedom of religion and speech. Faith-based counselors, particularly Christians, argue that minors should have the right to seek help from therapists who respect their religious beliefs.
The Supreme Court’s willingness to take on this case has opened the door for a potentially landmark ruling regarding the balance between religious freedom, free speech, and LGBTQ protections.
Why This Case Matters to Christians
The Supreme Court’s ruling on this case is of utmost importance to Christians, counselors, and churches across the United States. Should the Court rule in favor of Chiles, it would set a significant precedent, allowing faith-based counselors and ministries to offer biblical guidance to minors without fear of legal repercussions.
Key Implications:
1. Religious Freedom Protection: If the Court sides with Chiles, it could establish that therapists have the constitutional right to offer counseling that aligns with their religious beliefs. This could safeguard pastors, churches, and faith-based counselors from government interference.
2. Free Speech Victory: The case could also reaffirm free speech rights, ensuring that professionals are not censored or silenced when providing counseling aligned with biblical principles.
3. Implications for Churches: Many churches in the United States provide counseling for individuals struggling with same-sex attraction or gender identity issues. A favorable ruling for Chiles would ensure churches can continue to offer such counseling without fear of legal repercussions.
The Opposing Viewpoint
Conversely, LGBTQ advocates have expressed deep concern over the Supreme Court’s decision to hear the case. Many argue that allowing conversion therapy, even in faith-based settings, can cause severe psychological harm to minors, promoting shame, self-hatred, and depression.
Advocacy groups like the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) and GLAAD have expressed fear that the Court’s ruling could “roll back protections” for LGBTQ youth, emboldening therapists to offer harmful practices disguised as religious counseling.
What Does the Bible Say About This Issue?
For Christians, the issue of same-sex attraction and gender identity must be approached with a balance of truth and grace. The Bible is clear in its stance regarding homosexuality and gender identity:
• Leviticus 18:22 (NIV): “Do not have sexual relations with a man as one does with a woman; that is detestable.”
• 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 (NIV): “…neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor men who have sex with men… will inherit the kingdom of God. And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.”
However, the Bible also calls believers to approach those struggling with same-sex attraction or gender dysphoria with love and compassion:
• John 13:34 (NIV): “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.”
For Christian counselors like Chiles, the ability to offer help to individuals who desire biblical guidance is both a constitutional and spiritual right.
What Could Happen Next?
The Supreme Court is expected to hear oral arguments later in 2025, with a ruling anticipated by early 2026. Should the Court favor Chiles, it would mark a significant victory for religious freedom and ensure that Christian counselors can continue to offer biblical guidance without fear of legal consequences.
However, if the Court upholds Colorado’s ban, it could further limit the ability of Christian therapists, churches, and ministries to address same-sex attraction and gender identity issues from a biblical perspective.
The ruling may also influence similar conversion therapy bans in over 20 U.S. states and territories, setting a nationwide legal precedent.
How Should Christians Respond?
As believers, it is crucial to respond to this issue with prayer, wisdom, and grace. The Bible commands us to stand firm in our faith (1 Corinthians 16:13) while also demonstrating love and compassion to those who are struggling (Galatians 6:1-2).
Here’s how you can respond:
1. Pray – Intercede for the Supreme Court to rule in favor of religious freedom and free speech.
2. Support Faith-Based Counselors – Encourage Christian therapists, pastors, and counselors who are under increasing pressure to conform to secular ideologies.
3. Speak the Truth in Love – As Christians, it is essential to uphold biblical truths while simultaneously showing love, grace, and compassion to those facing gender or sexual identity challenges.
Conclusion
The Supreme Court’s decision to review Colorado’s ban on LGBTQ conversion therapy marks a critical moment for religious freedom, free speech, and biblical counseling in the United States.
While the legal outcome remains uncertain, Christians are encouraged to remain steadfast in faith, prayer, and compassion, trusting that God’s sovereignty will ultimately prevail. Regardless of the ruling, the Church must continue to extend love, grace, and biblical truth to everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
✅ Call to Action:
• Share this article to raise awareness about the ongoing legal battle for religious freedom.
• Pray for the Supreme Court justices to uphold First Amendment rights for Christian counselors.
• Engage your community with discussions about the importance of free speech and religious liberty.
Last modified: March 11, 2025
