Report Conversion Therapy Ban - San Francisco Steps

Civil Rights and Equity California 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 06, 2026 Flag of California

In San Francisco, California, anyone who suspects a provider or organization is subjecting a minor to conversion therapy can report the conduct to the relevant authorities. This guide explains where to submit complaints, what evidence helps, which agencies may act, and basic appeal paths. It covers municipal contacts and the state law that prohibits licensed mental health providers from offering conversion therapy to minors, with practical steps for residents, parents, and professionals to protect young people.

Penalties & Enforcement

The primary prohibition applicable to licensed mental health providers in California is codified in state law; enforcement for licensed clinicians is ordinarily handled by state licensing boards. Specific monetary fines are not specified on the cited page. For the controlling statute, see the California bill text linked below in Footnotes.California SB 1172[1]

Key enforcement and remedies to be aware of:

  • Enforcers: California licensing boards (Board of Psychology; Board of Behavioral Sciences) for licensed clinicians; civil actions may be pursued by the City Attorney or private plaintiffs where applicable.
  • Inspection and complaint pathways: file a complaint with the appropriate state licensing board; local agencies such as the San Francisco Human Rights Commission may accept discrimination-related complaints.
  • Fines and monetary penalties: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first vs repeat or continuing offences are not specified on the cited page for municipal fines; licensing boards can impose discipline up to license suspension or revocation.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: license restrictions, probation, suspension, revocation, and orders to cease unlawful practice are potential remedies through licensing procedures.
  • Appeals and review: disciplined licensees generally have administrative appeal rights under the licensing board procedures; specific time limits are set by the board rules and are not specified on the cited page.
For licensed mental health providers the state licensing boards are the primary enforcement bodies for conduct involving minors.

Applications & Forms

Complaint forms are available from state licensing boards; the exact form name or number is not specified on the cited page. To report a licensed provider, complete the licensing board complaint form for the Board of Psychology or the Board of Behavioral Sciences and follow the submission instructions on that board's official site.

How to Report - Action Steps

  1. Gather evidence: dates, session notes, messages, witness names, advertising materials, and any written or recorded statements.
  2. Identify the provider: name, license type, license number if known, employer or practice address.
  3. File a complaint with the appropriate state licensing board (Board of Psychology or Board of Behavioral Sciences) using their official complaint form and upload supporting documents.
  4. If the matter raises immediate safety concerns for a minor, contact San Francisco Child Protective Services or call emergency services.
  5. Consider reporting discrimination or municipal contracting concerns to the San Francisco Human Rights Commission or City Attorney if the conduct involves a city-regulated program.
Include clear, dated evidence when you file a complaint to help investigators assess the allegation.

FAQ

How do I report suspected conversion therapy in San Francisco?
File a complaint with the relevant state licensing board and consider also notifying the San Francisco Human Rights Commission or the City Attorney for local civil concerns.
Who investigates and can penalize a provider?
Licensed provider discipline is handled by California licensing boards; local offices may pursue civil enforcement on municipal matters.
Can I report anonymously?
Some boards accept anonymous tips but formal investigations typically require contact information; check the complaint rules on the licensing board site.

How-To

  1. Collect documentation and statements that describe the conduct and the minor's involvement.
  2. Locate and complete the complaint form on the appropriate licensing board website.
  3. Submit the complaint with attachments and note the complaint tracking number.
  4. Follow up with the board or local agency if you do not receive confirmation within the expected timeframe.

Key Takeaways

  • State law prohibits licensed providers from performing conversion therapy on minors; file complaints with licensing boards.
  • San Francisco agencies can address municipal or civil issues in parallel to state board actions.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] California Legislative Information - SB 1172

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