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To: Clint N. Suhks
An excerpt from "Pastoral Care For Same-Gender Attracted Individuals"

"... This perspective is reinforced by the recent experience of Dr. Robert Spitzer, the controversial psychiatrist who over two decades ago successfully lobbied for the removal of homosexuality from the diagnostic manual of mental disorders, but who has now come out in support of the concept of reparative therapy. In an editorial in the Wall Street Journal he offered the following realistic scenario:

Client: "I love my wife and children, but I usually am only able to have sex with my wife when I fantasize about having sex with a man. I have considered finding a gay partner, but I prefer to keep my commitment to my family. The homosexual feelings never felt like who I really am. Can you help me diminish those feelings and increase my sexual feelings for my wife?"

Professional: "You are asking me to change your sexual orientation, which is considered by my profession as impossible and unethical. All I am permitted to do is help you become more comfortable with your homosexual feelings."

The mental health professions should stop moving in the direction of banning such therapy. Many patients, informed of the possibility that they may be disappointed if the therapy does not succeed, can make a rational choice to work toward developing their heterosexual potential and minimizing their unwanted homosexual attractions. In fact, such a choice should be considered fundamental to client autonomy and self-determination."
(Dr. Robert L. Spitzer, "Psychiatry and Homosexuality," The Wall Street Journal, 05/23/2001)..."


60 posted on 02/09/2005 1:34:20 PM PST by EdReform (Free Republic - helping to keep our country a free republic. Thank you for your financial support!)
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To: EdReform
The mental health professions should stop moving in the direction of banning such therapy. Many patients, informed of the possibility that they may be disappointed if the therapy does not succeed, can make a rational choice to work toward developing their heterosexual potential and minimizing their unwanted homosexual attractions. In fact, such a choice should be considered fundamental to client autonomy and self-determination." (Dr. Robert L. Spitzer, "Psychiatry and Homosexuality," The Wall Street Journal, 05/23/2001)..."

This is the one quote I did email them. Wish I had the Massachusetts News quote too. Thats a killer.

64 posted on 02/09/2005 2:21:40 PM PST by Clint N. Suhks
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