Is it the practice of perversion or the mere thought of it that is forbidden, and is there a way to repent from it?

Sodomy and lesbianism are forbidden and are among the major sins that incur Allah's wrath and punishment. Merely thinking about a sin does not lead to punishment unless one acts upon it or speaks about it. However, excessive thinking can lead to action, so one must strive against evil thoughts. The path to repentance involves immediately abandoning the sin, regretting it, resolving not to return to it, increasing good deeds, and staying away from bad company and everything that leads to sin.