Conversion Practices - NZ Association of Counsellors

This summary delves into the key talking points from a podcast interview with Christine Macfarlane, President of the New Zealand Association of Counsellors, regarding the Association's policy on conversion practices, conducted by Gareth Watkins. The discussion, recorded in August 2020 in Wellington, New Zealand, examines the nuanced perspectives on conversion therapy, its effects, and its ethical considerations within the counselling profession.

Central to the discourse is the Association's strong stance against conversion therapy, a pseudoscientific practice aimed at altering individuals' sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression through psychological or spiritual interventions. Macfarlane criticizes conversion therapy, considering it an act of violence and imposition of will, rather than a legitimate form of therapy aligned with the positive and supportive nature of true counselling services. The conversation suggests that despite the integration of personal beliefs into counselling, the Association's policy strictly prohibits any attempt to change an individual's sexuality or gender identity.

The podcast also highlights that conversion practices, rooted in religious beliefs and patriarchal systems, often occur covertly within the social or family context. This practice can have severe ramifications on an individual's mental health, resulting in anxiety, depression, suicidality, and a loss of identity. In response to recognizing its devastating outcomes, the New Zealand Association of Counsellors has formulated a specific policy to address and condemn conversion therapy within its ranks.

Macfarlane underscores the importance of counsellors maintaining professional boundaries, following a code of ethics, and obtaining adequate training to avoid inadvertently engaging in conversion practices. The policy explicitly demands that counsellors do not work beyond their experience or scope of practice and adhere to principles that forbid imposing their personal beliefs on clients.

The interview also touches upon the responsibility placed upon Association members to report any fellow counsellors engaged in conversion practices, demonstrating a commitment to protect the rights and dignity of all individuals. Furthermore, the policy outlines the obligation of counsellors to advocate for their clients' rights to self-identification and expression without any coercion or pressure to conform to societal norms.

Lastly, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on counsellors is discussed, highlighting the increased need for mental health support in the face of unprecedented stresses, such as financial insecurity, relationship strain, and the challenges of remote work and isolation. The pandemic's aftermath has seen a significant rise in counselling demand, with professionals urged to practice self-care to manage the heightened workload effectively and maintain their well-being.

This summary is created using Generative AI. Although it is based on the recording's transcription, it may contain errors or omissions. Click here to learn more about how this summary was created.

Christine Macfarlane

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