Summary
In 1973, the American Psychiatric Association declassified homosexuality as a mental disorder. In reaction, many Christian ministries launched efforts to ‘heal’ homosexuals, sparking the rise of the ‘ex-gay’ movement.
For LGBTQ individuals within faith communities, being same-sex attracted meant being labelled sinful, broken, or even demon-possessed. Accepting their identity often led to rejection by family, friends, and church, and the terrifying belief they were risking eternal damnation. These deeply held beliefs created intense internal conflict and psychological distress, causing long-term harm. Many sought ‘help’ through various forms of so-called conversion ‘therapy’ in both formal and informal settings..
To effectively support survivors of conversion practices, professionals need an understanding of the unique worldview of LGBTQ people of faith, the internal and external barriers they face in reconciling identity and belief.
This unique seminar offers an insider perspective on the complex intersection of faith and sexuality, providing an in-depth understanding of the challenges faced by LGBTQ people from faith backgrounds, particularly those impacted by conversion ‘therapy.’ It equips therapists, counsellors, and community workers with the empathy, insight, and practical tools needed to offer effective and affirming support.
Who should attend?
- Mental health professionals
- Counsellors
- Social workers
- LGBTQ organisations and community workers
- Care provider agencies
- Chaplains
- Telephone counsellors
- Churches and denominations
- Pastoral care workers
Areas covered
LGBTQ People of Faith: Understanding the Complexities
- Exploring the unique tensions between faith, sexuality, and gender identity
- Identifying the specific challenges LGBTQ people face within religious contexts
- Unpacking internal conflicts: belief systems, sexual identity, and scripture
- Strategies to help individuals navigate and reconcile faith and identity
- Creating safe, affirming, and non-judgmental spaces
- Best practices: What to do and what to avoid when working with LGBTQ people of faith
Conversion “Therapy”: Harmful Practices and Their Legacy
- Definition and historical overview (1940s to present)
- The changing language: From “ex-gay” to “unwanted same-sex attraction”
- Who are the practitioners? A look at individuals and organisations involved.
- Common practices: Exorcisms, “counselling,” spiritual healing, online forums, and more
- Why the celibacy model can be just as damaging as “change” efforts
- Psychological impact: Anxiety, depression, PTSD, suicidal ideation and attempts
- Real-life survivor stories: Lived experiences that bring the data to life
- Access to further resources and support networks
What have others said?
“The seminar gave me many things, including models for recovery. I was impressed with the quality of teaching. Hearing actual stories from Anthony’s vast experience was incredibly helpful for my work. An excellent and refreshing seminar very well done.”
Christopher Cat
Researcher Pastoral Care
“As a sex therapist, I often have clients from religious backgrounds which plague their growth and development. Everything about the day’s seminar was valuable to me. One thing that stands out, though, was the various models of resolution shared over the day. I definitely feel more equipped.”
Karen
Qualified Sex Therapist
As an LGBTQ counsellor who is a non-religious atheist, it is challenging at times to work through the issues faced by LGBTQ clients from faith backgrounds.
This was the best seminar I have ever attended about this. Actually, it is the only one I’ve attended. I have never come across another.
I have definitely walked away with deeper insights, concepts and practical processes I can use in sessions with clients. Anthony’s lived experience and the many examples of people he has worked with created a depth of understanding I’ve not had before.
I’m sure that all LGBTQ therapists and counsellors would benefit from this unique seminar as I have.”
Peter
LGBTQ Counsellor
Anthony brings not only a wealth of knowledge but also years of personal experience to his seminars and training. Once a high-profile Pentecostal preacher in Australia’s megachurches, but behind the scenes, he fought a private, decades-long battle with his sexuality.
His bestselling autobiography, A Life of Unlearning, details his desperate attempts to change—through prayer, counselling, fasting, exorcisms, conversion ‘therapy’, and marriage. A chance encounter shattered the denial he had lived in, thrusting him into a painful journey through scandal, rejection, and trauma. Many say it’s a miracle he survived.
Since 2000, Anthony’s work has helped thousands find peace and authenticity. He has worked with over 4,000 survivors of conversion ‘therapy’ and countless others navigating faith and sexuality conflict.
As founder and CEO of Ambassadors & Bridge Builders International (ABBI), Anthony provides education, training, and resources to Christian leaders, churches, and LGBTQ organisations—building bridges where there were once walls.
Anthony was twice named one of the 25 Most Influential Gay and Lesbian Australians (2007, 2009) and awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in 2020 for his service to the LGBTQ community.
