Mormon Therapist Molests LGBTQIA+ Clients: “Curing” Gays Through Abuse?
A disturbing case out of Utah has brought to light the hypocrisy and abuse tied to so-called “conversion therapy.” Scott Dale Owen, a 66-year-old former therapist and Mormon bishop has pleaded guilty to sexually abusing two male clients during sessions meant to “cure” them of homosexuality. The details are as shocking as they are heartbreaking, revealing a betrayal of trust that exploited vulnerable individuals seeking help.
Who Is Scott Dale Owen?
Owen, once the owner of Canyon Counseling in Provo, Utah, built his reputation within the Mormon Church as a specialist in “conversion therapy.” This discredited practice claims to change an individual’s sexual orientation. However, instead of offering legitimate therapy, Owen used his position to manipulate and sexually abuse his clients.
Court documents reveal that Owen convinced his victims that sexual contact was a necessary part of their “treatment.” This included acts like kissing, touching, and even forcing one client into oral sex. He assured them that these actions were part of “person-centered therapy” and would help them align with their religious values.
Adding to the gravity of the case, Owen also pleaded no contest to abusing a 13-year-old girl. His sentencing is scheduled for March 31, and he faces up to life in prison.
Owen’s misconduct dates back years. In 2018, he surrendered his therapy license after multiple complaints from patients about inappropriate touching. Despite this, he continued to play an active role in his counseling business until 2023. It wasn’t until investigative reporting by The Salt Lake City Tribune and ProPublica brought these allegations into the public eye that law enforcement took action.
Shockingly, local leaders in the Mormon Church were aware of complaints against Owen as early as 2016. Despite this knowledge, there is no evidence they reported his actions to police. Instead, church funds were used to pay for Owen’s so-called therapy sessions, further enabling his abuse.
This case highlights the dangers of conversion therapy and the harm it inflicts on those subjected to it. Beyond being scientifically debunked and widely condemned by mental health professionals, it creates an environment where predators like Owen can exploit their clients under the guise of religious or therapeutic authority.
It also raises serious questions about accountability within religious organisations. Why didn’t church leaders report Owen’s behaviour to authorities? What safeguards are in place to protect individuals from similar abuse in the future?
This story is a sobering reminder that trust can be weaponised by those in positions of power. It also underscores the importance of banning harmful practices like conversion therapy outright.
