Report Conversion Therapy Violations - Brooklyn Law

Civil Rights and Equity New York 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 02, 2026 Flag of New York

Brooklyn, New York residents who suspect conversion therapy has been used on a minor or delivered in violation of professional rules can take action to report the conduct and seek enforcement. This guide explains which local and state offices handle complaints, typical enforcement pathways, what penalties or professional discipline may apply, and practical steps to preserve evidence and file a report from Brooklyn. It covers municipal and state enforcement channels, how to document an allegation, common outcomes, and where to get help if you need legal or support services.

Report quickly and preserve records, messages, and names of witnesses.

Penalties & Enforcement

Conversion therapy for minors is addressed through a combination of state law, professional licensing rules, and municipal nondiscrimination enforcement. Enforcement and penalties vary by the enforcing body. Where a specific statutory fine or penalty amount is not listed on an official enforcement page, this guide notes that the amount is "not specified on the cited page."

  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Professional discipline: licensed providers may face licensing sanctions, suspension, or revocation by the New York State Office of the Professions.
  • Civil enforcement: the City of New York may investigate discrimination or harmful practices under local human rights rules where applicable.
  • Complaint intake: complaints typically go to the licensing board, the state Office of the Professions, or the NYC civil rights enforcement agency.
  • Court actions: affected individuals may have remedies through civil court; specific timelines are case-dependent and not specified on the cited page.
Enforcement routes differ depending on whether the provider is licensed and whether the subject is a minor.

Applications & Forms

No specific municipal form for conversion-therapy complaints is universally published; complainants use the complaint intake forms of the enforcing office (for example, the state licensing complaint portal or the city human rights complaint form). Fees are typically not required to file a complaint. Check the enforcing office for submission method and any intake instructions.

How enforcement works

Typical enforcement steps include intake and review, investigation, informal resolution or referral, disciplinary hearing if warranted, and potential sanctions. Timelines and specific escalation rules vary by agency. If a matter involves an unlicensed individual, enforcement may be limited to consumer protection or criminal referral where the conduct meets statutory elements.

  • Intake and documentation: submit records, dates, participant names, and communications.
  • Investigation: the enforcing agency reviews and may interview witnesses or request records.
  • Disposition: possible outcomes include dismissal, settlement, professional discipline, or referral to court.

Common violations

  • Providing conversion therapy to minors where prohibited.
  • Licensed providers advertising or offering conversion therapy services inconsistent with professional standards.
  • Coercive or nonconsensual practices presented as therapy.

FAQ

Can I report conversion therapy anonymously?
Yes, many agencies accept anonymous tips, but providing contact information helps investigators follow up and obtain evidence.
Which office handles complaints about a licensed therapist?
Complaints about licensed therapists are typically filed with the New York State Office of the Professions or the relevant state licensing board.
Is conversion therapy illegal everywhere in New York?
State law restricts conversion therapy for minors and professional rules prohibit certain practices; the exact scope and enforcement mechanisms depend on the statute and professional regulations.

How-To

  1. Document dates, locations, names, communications, and any written materials related to the alleged conversion therapy.
  2. Preserve electronic records and obtain copies of contracts, emails, or messages.
  3. Contact the appropriate enforcement office: for licensed providers, file with the New York State Office of the Professions; for discrimination complaints, contact the City civil rights agency or local enforcement office.
  4. Follow the agency intake instructions, submit supporting documents, and note any case reference number for follow-up.
  5. If you need legal advice or immediate protection, seek a lawyer or local support organizations that assist survivors of harmful practices.

Key Takeaways

  • Report suspected conversion therapy promptly and preserve evidence.
  • Licensed-provider complaints go to the state licensing office; discrimination claims may go to city human rights enforcement.
  • Specific fines or penalties are not universally listed on municipal pages and depend on the enforcing authority.

Help and Support / Resources

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