E87: Conversion Therapy w/ Bill Prickett

*Trigger Warning - talk of suicide This discussion explores the religious community’s attempt to “fix” and change sexual orientations other than heterosexual, now known as Conversion Therapy, previously known as “ex-gay” treatments. The methodology varies, but the practice has been thoroughly debunked. Bill Prickett speaks about his personal experience, his rise as a leader in the conversion therapy community, and the harms it causes. Bill Prickett was born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama, the "Bible Belt" of the Deep South. In early college, after a religious conversion, he decided to pursue a career in the ministry. He served more than five years in youth ministry, eleven years as Pastor of a Southern Baptist Church, and four years as Pastor of an independent, evangelical congregation.  To comply with the teachings of his conservative Christian faith, Bill spent more than eight years trying to change his sexual orientation. Eventually, he became Executive Director of an "ex-gay" ministry, working with others who also struggled with homosexuality. Since abandoning those futile efforts, he has spent decades speaking out about the deception and dangers of programs now known as Conversion Therapy.   Hosted by Amaia Perez, the RfR Online Programming Director, and Medelin Nolasco, RfR Helpline Volunteer and Social Host. For RfRx comments, inquiries & topical questions, email us at [email protected]. Any time you are struggling with religious doubts or fears you can connect with a trained RfR Helpline agent 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To chat online go to http://www.recoveringfromreligion.org. To talk over the phone, dial: (844) 368-2848 in the US & Canada If you are in need of professional help, we can offer the Secular Therapy Project to provide options to connect with a professional therapist. All therapists have been thoroughly vetted by our organization and offer only evidence-based and non-religious treatment. Connect with them at http://www.seculartherapy.org. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Tiktok. Volunteer: http://www.recoveringfromreligion.org/volunteer Donate: https://www.recoveringfromreligion.org/donate