NATSAP Statement on U.S. Supreme Court Decision in Chiles v. Salazar, et al.

 (April 8, 2026) The National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs (NATSAP) expresses deep concern regarding the recent decision by the U.S. Supreme Court in Chiles v. Salazar, et al., and its potential implications for mental health treatment and professional standards of care.

“This ruling raises significant alarms about the case’s potential impact on the health and well-being of adolescents during some of their most vulnerable developmental periods,” said John Singleton, EdD, NATSAP past president and board member. “It also calls into question the ability of licensed clinicians and accredited therapeutic programs to provide patient-centered, evidence-based care within clearly established professional and ethical guidelines.”

At issue in the Court’s decision is the application of First Amendment protections to clinical practice, specifically whether restricting certain therapeutic approaches—commonly referred to as “conversion therapy”—limits a provider’s free speech. Prior to this ruling, the state of Colorado prohibited these practices due to a lack of credible evidence supporting their effectiveness.

Conversion therapy, which seeks to change an individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity, is widely discredited and not supported by scientific evidence. Research has shown it is associated with increased risks of depression, anxiety, substance use, homelessness, and suicidality among youth.

NATSAP is concerned that overturning Colorado’s law may create uncertainty for both clinicians and patients, with potentially far-reaching consequences for consumer protection, clinical standards, and the regulation of mental health care.

NATSAP joins organizations including the American Psychiatric Association, the American Psychological Association, Mental Health America, and the National Alliance on Mental Illness in expressing apprehension and disappointment with this decision.

As the legal and regulatory landscape continues to evolve, NATSAP remains committed to supporting safe, ethical, and evidence-based care for adolescents and families, and will continue to monitor developments closely.

###

The National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs (NATSAP) is a non-profit professional membership organization representing a range of therapeutic schools and programs dedicated to supporting struggling youth and their families. NATSAP’s is on fostering collaboration, providing education, and promoting best practices within the therapeutic industry. The Association aims to advance therapeutic care and ensure the highest standards for programs serving youth in need of emotional, behavioral, and mental health support.