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In this powerful and revealing episode of Queer Story Time, Matt Ashcroft shares his experiences as a survivor of conversion therapy.

Matt Ashcroft (he/him), an award-winning social justice advocate and University of Toronto student, is a survivor of conversion therapy. He's dedicated to advocating for legislative changes to combat systemic abuses like sexual orientation and gender identity change efforts (SOGICE) against the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community in various regions. Matt holds "ex-gay leaders" and officials accountable for protecting 2SLGBTQQIA+ rights, with his advocacy featured in media and speaking engagements. He co-founded Conversion Therapy Survivors (CT Survivors), which amplifies survivor voices and offers peer support. His goals include comprehensive legal protections, racial equity emphasis, and amplifying marginalized voices in the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community. This conversation discusses conversion therapy horrors, lasting effects, and the global need for bans. Matt shares personal experiences, insights, and his dedication to becoming an expert, showcasing survivor resilience in ending harmful practices. 

• Introducing Matt Ashcroft and the topic of conversion therapy (CT).
• Matt shares his personal journey and experiences in CT.
• The dangerous non-evidence based pseudo-therapies used in CT.
• The role of religion and ideology in promoting CT.
• The pressure to conform to societal expectations and religious beliefs.
• The emotional and psychological trauma resulting from CT.
• The physical and emotional toll on survivors, even years after experiencing CT.
• The importance of community and support for survivors.
• Detailed examination of the intake process for therapy clients.
• The unethical and illegal practices used in the name of CT.
• How therapists manipulate clients and breach their privacy.
• The harm caused by Christopher Doyle and his CT practices.
• A call to humanize LGBTQIA+ individuals.
• The damaging impact of oppressive laws and policies.
• Matt's dedication to fighting against CT and his future goals.

This conversation serves as a powerful reminder of the urgency to ban conversion therapy practices worldwide and highlights the strength and determination of survivors like Matt Ashcroft to create a safer and more equitable world for all.

Links Mentioned In Episode: 

1. Truth Wins Out Article by Wayne Besen: https://truthwinsout.org/two-investigation-divorce-records-paint-portrait-of-ex-gay-activist-christopher-doyle-as-a-violent-man-who-is-likely-still-gay/ 
2. CT Survivors: https://ctsurvivorsconnect.ca 
3. Boy Erased (On Netflix): https://www.netflix.com/title/80240538 
4. The Sunday Sessions (On Amazon Prime): https://www.amazon.com/Sunday-Sessions-Nathan-Gniewek/dp/B07N31BHVL 
5. Thriveworks Counseling Client Intake: https://thriveworks.com/blog/counseling-intake-process/ 
6. Find Matt Ashcroft & Not Your Content: @mattash89 across all social media and on YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@NotYourContent6 

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Host: Stevie Inghram, M.S., YT, AWC, NMS-4 (She/They)

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