British counselling body says it failed trans and non-binary people, and pledges change

The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy has acknowledged that it did not do enough to support trans, non-binary and gender-questioning people, while reaffirming its commitment to being an inclusive organisation.

The statement, published on the organisation’s website on Friday, 10 July, comes from the professional association for counselling professions in the UK. It says the body wants to operate as a fully inclusive organisation across its work as an employer, membership body and charity.

“We’re committed to being a fully inclusive organisation… across our roles as an employer, membership body and charity,” the statement says.

It adds: “Our position is that gender and experiences of gender are diverse. Everyone’s experience and views of gender are valid and should be respected.”

The association also said the wider therapeutic field has not historically shown enough respect for, or validated, TNBGQ communities.

It said: “We acknowledge our own role in failing to serve the needs of, and demonstrate allyship to, the trans community.”

The organisation thanked people who have pointed out those inequalities over the years, and said there are still gaps to address despite what it described as positive steps toward greater inclusion.

“We’re committed to listening to, and learning directly from, those with lived experience to further improve to support and safeguard marginalised groups,” it said.

Equality Act and therapy access

The BACP also said it works in line with the Equality Act 2010, including recognition that some of its members may hold gender-critical beliefs that are protected under that law.

“This protects the rights of the individual not to be discriminated against or harassed due to these beliefs. We work in line with the Equality Act 2010 to ensure fairness for everyone,” the statement says.

On children and young people exploring their gender, the association said psychological therapy should be available to all young people, including those who are TNBGQ.

It also set out its position against conversion therapy, describing it as unethical and harmful. The BACP is a signatory to the UK’s Memorandum of Understanding on Conversion Therapy, which opposes therapy aimed at changing or suppressing a person’s gender identity.

“We’re fundamentally opposed to any misuse of therapy to try to change a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity and believe conversion therapy is unethical and harmful,” the organisation said.

It added that anyone seeking therapy should be able to access it without fear of judgement or pressure to change a fundamental part of who they are.

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The BACP’s statement places trans inclusion, equality law and opposition to conversion therapy at the centre of its position as a professional body with influence over counselling and psychotherapy practice in the UK.

Why it matters

For trans and non-binary people, statements like this can matter because professional bodies help shape standards, training and expectations in care settings. Clear opposition to conversion therapy and support for access to therapy may also affect how safely LGBTQ+ people can seek help.