A Tennessee bill that passed in the Senate and is moving to the House this week would allow therapists and other mental health professionals to refuse services to individuals because of their sexuality, gender identity, or religious beliefs. All in the name of "religious freedom", this would discriminate against LGBT patients, and would potentially cause major harm (especially if they are in crisis).
Religious beliefs have no place in mental health care. As an individual with mental illness and who is LGBT, I know what it feels like to be treated differently when one needs the most compassion and understanding. Please tell the House to not pass this bill, and instead uphold equal treatment for all.
Dear Representatives of the Tennessee House,
A bill is being voted on this week that would legally allow mental health professionals to turn patients away because of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or religious beliefs. This could cause major harm, especially if patients are at a low point or are in crisis.
Please vote against this bill and instead ensure that all LGBT citizens of Tennessee have access to the same mental health services as those that do not share their identities.
Thank you for your time.
