2012

A “convictions of conscience” clause, as called by proponents, or a “refusal of services” or “denial of care” clause, as called by opponents, is a statute or practice regulation designed to shield health care providers from discrimination by their employers when they refuse to perform procedures that violate firmly held religious or moral beliefs (Roshelli, 2009). Some states have proposed legislative or practice regulations that prohibit sanctions against licensed mental health practitioners who refuse services and/or referrals for clients about whose issues they have moral objections, such as sexual orientation, abortion, and religion. This article provides a review of the historical context for and current issues in mental health practice related to “convictions of conscience” clauses, as well as explores the ethical implications of these clauses for professional counselors and counselors in training.