Bente Berkland

Colorado's law prohibits mental health professionals in the state from attempting to change a minor client's sexual orientation or gender identity during talk therapy sessions.

Major psychological governing bodies say the practice is harmful, and the state argued it has the authority to regulate licensed therapists.

But an eight to one high court majority sided with a Christian counselor who argues the law banning certain therapies violates the First Amendment.

The majority found the Colorado law regulates speech based on viewpoint and permits some types of speech but not others.

One of the sponsors of Colorado's law said the ruling would put some children in jeopardy.

For NPR News, I'm Benta Birkeland in Vail, Colorado.