When it comes to mental health, Thaddeus Heffner, MMFT agrees that the “right to self-determination is a keystone ethic.” Autonomy refers to the promotion of self-determination, or the freedom of clients to choose their own direction.  Respect for autonomy, notes Thaddeus Heffner, entails acknowledging the right of another to choose and act in accordance with his or her wishes, and the professional behaves in a way that enables this right of another person.” (Issues and Ethics in the Helping Professions, Corey, Corey & Callanan, pg17)

Thaddeus Heffner explains that reparative therapy is a therapeutic approach to help those who desire to move away from homosexuality and toward gender wholeness.  While there are those who work in Mental Health that might not agree with a reparative approach, Thaddeus Heffner is in the business of supporting clients who self-determine to diminish their struggle with SSA, embracing a reparative approach. [Read more…]