State
reviews Christian counseling group

A Christian group that tries to persuade gays to give up their homosexual ways is again drawing attention from Tennessee investigators. The Department of Mental Health & Developmental Disabilities wants to know if Love In Action International is conducting improper counseling sessions with unlicensed personnel. Love In Action recently was investigated by the Department of Children's Services on a child abuse complaint that was found to be unsubstantiated. John Smid, Love In Action's executive director, said his group does not provide psychological, drug, or alcohol counseling but seeks to help people overcome sexual problems through a stronger Christian faith. Smid said the group's programs will be adjusted if necessary to make sure they are in line with state regulations. Counseling that would be regulated by the state is "really not our focus," he said. Rachel Lassiter, a spokeswoman for the mental health department, said Love In Action was sent a letter Monday seeking information about its practices. Love In Action's work, particularly with teenagers, has drawn protests from gay rights advocates. (AP)