Apr
10

NPA Statement on the Supreme Court Decision in Chiles v. Salazar

April 10, 2026

The Nevada Psychological Association (NPA) wishes to convey deep concerns about the recent ruling of the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) in Chiles v. Salazar, et.al.


We feel that it is necessary and our obligation as providers and supporters of mental health to recognize and differentiate between the First Amendment rights afforded to all citizens and the Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct. At their core, these principles guide us to offer scientifically-grounded care that does not cause harm to those we treat.

Along with the American Psychological Association and other State, Provincial, and Territorial Associations, NPA firmly believes that identifying as LGBTQ+ is not a mental illness, and efforts to challenge or change one’s sexual orientation or gender identity are not ethical. Furthermore, efforts, such as conversion therapies, to forcibly change one’s sexual orientation have been scientifically shown to be harmful and cause significant distress, including depression, anxiety, and increased risk of suicide. Nevada became the 8th state to ban conversion therapies in 2017 for these reasons.