Report Conversion Therapy Violations in Columbus

Civil Rights and Equity Ohio 3 Minutes Read · published February 06, 2026 Flag of Ohio

In Columbus, Ohio, people who believe a provider or organization is subjecting someone to conversion therapy can report suspected violations to city civil-rights authorities and seek enforcement options. This guide explains where to file, what information to gather, likely enforcement pathways, and immediate action steps for victims or witnesses.

Penalties & Enforcement

The City of Columbus handles civil-rights complaints through its Civil Rights Division and may refer matters to the City Attorney for enforcement or civil action. Exact fines and statutory penalty amounts for conversion-therapy violations are not specified on the cited page.[1]

  • Enforcer: City of Columbus Civil Rights Division and the City Attorney (complaint intake and legal enforcement). [1]
  • Investigation: complaints are reviewed, investigated, and may lead to administrative orders or referral to civil courts; procedural details and timeframes are not specified on the cited municipal code page.[2]
  • Fines: amounts and per-day scales are not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first and repeat-offence escalation rules are not specified on the cited page; enforcement can include orders, injunctions, or civil suits.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: administrative cease-and-desist orders, injunctive relief, and court actions may be used; specifics are not listed on the cited pages.
Report quickly and preserve evidence such as communications and records of treatment.

Applications & Forms

The City of Columbus publishes complaint intake guidance and a civil-rights complaint process; if a specific “conversion-therapy” form exists it is not separately listed on the complaint intake page. File a complaint through the Civil Rights Division intake pathway found at the city site.[1]

If the person at risk is a minor, indicate age and guardianship status in the complaint.

How to Report and What to Include

When reporting suspected conversion therapy, provide clear facts and documentation to help investigators assess the complaint and determine enforcement options.

  • Who: names of the person receiving treatment, provider or organization, and any witnesses.
  • When: dates and times of sessions, referrals, or communications.
  • Where: address, clinic name, or online-platform details.
  • Evidence: texts, emails, receipts, contracts, photographs, or recorded statements (preserve originals).
  • Legal status: indicate if the subject is a minor and whether parental consent was given or withheld.

Reporting Pathways

File a civil-rights complaint with the City of Columbus Civil Rights Division to start a municipal review; if criminal conduct or licensure issues are suspected, the matter may be referred to law enforcement or state licensing boards. For local code references see the Columbus Code of Ordinances and complaint guidance pages.[2]

FAQ

Who can file a complaint?
Any person who witnessed or experienced suspected conversion therapy in Columbus, a guardian for a minor, or an authorized representative may file a complaint with the Civil Rights Division.
Will filing stop the therapy immediately?
Not automatically; filing triggers review and potential emergency referrals, but immediate removal or cease orders depend on investigative findings and available emergency remedies.
Are there criminal penalties?
Criminal penalties are not specified on the Columbus municipal pages cited; suspected criminal conduct may be referred to law enforcement for review.
Can I get legal help or compensation?
The Civil Rights Division can investigate and recommend remedies; civil damages or compensation require separate court action or settlements, and are not described in detail on the cited municipal pages.

How-To

  1. Document the incident: collect dates, names, messages, receipts, and witness contacts.
  2. Preserve originals: save electronic copies and make backups of any records or communications.
  3. File a complaint: use the City of Columbus Civil Rights Division complaint pathway to submit facts and evidence.[1]
  4. Request interim measures: ask the investigator about emergency protections for minors or vulnerable adults.
  5. Follow up: track the complaint number, respond to investigator requests, and request timelines for resolution.
  6. Consider civil counsel: for damages or urgent protective orders, consult an attorney experienced in civil-rights or family law.

Key Takeaways

  • Report suspected conversion therapy to the City of Columbus Civil Rights Division promptly.
  • Preserve evidence and note dates, witnesses, and provider details.
  • Municipal enforcement may include investigations and civil actions; monetary fines are not specified on cited pages.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Columbus Civil Rights Division - File a Complaint
  2. [2] City of Columbus Code of Ordinances - Municode

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