Chiles v. Salazar:
A Parent's Guide
If you’re hearing about Chiles v. Salazar (sometimes written Chiles vs Salazar) and wondering what it means for your family, you’re not alone. We're parents too. Here’s the plain-English version so you can feel grounded—and keep your child safe while the Chiles v. Salazar hearing plays out.
What is the Chiles v. Salazar case?
A court case about whether licensed therapists can try to change a minor’s sexual orientation or gender identity. Colorado says no (to protect kids).
Why Chiles v. Salazar matters for parents
Practices often called “conversion therapy” don’t help and can hurt. Parents deserve the truth, and kkids deserve care that supports them—not shames them.
Where to follow hearing updates
We’ll post plain updates on our Chiles v. Salazar blog as the case moves forward.
What the Chiles v. Salazar case is really about
Think of it like a guardrail. Colorado put a rule on licensed mental-health providers: you can’t take a child into counseling with the goal of “making them straight” or “changing who they are.” Why? Simply because therapy doesn't work that way and it puts kids at risk.
What is allowed? All the supportive things good therapists do—listening, helping with stress, strengthening family communication, and honoring a young person’s dignity.
If the rule is upheld, states can keep protecting children from harmful “fix-it” practices..
If the rule is struck down, it could open the door for those practices to come back under a “therapy” label.
What parents ask most
A simple plan for right now
Lead with love. Say the quiet part out loud: “I’m here for you.”
Choose licensed, supportive care. Ask providers directly, “Do you try to change kids, or support them as they are?”
Watch the language. “Fixing,” “correcting,” or any shame-based talk is a red flag.
Keep faith in the room. Pray together. Ask questions together. Your love is the safest place.
