This is a huge loophole that is a big problem in Utah and other states with similar exemptions. In fact, data show that rates of teens being subjected to conversion therapy have not decreased in states with legal bans. Practitioners simply relabel their practices as "religious counseling" and carry on, taking advantage of the religious exemptions written into the laws.

The Mormon Church in Utah torpedoed the state conversion therapy ban a couple years ago just as it was on the verge of passing. They exercised political power to prevent its passage until legislators relented and included much stronger religious exemptions. As a result, conversion therapy in Utah is continuing almost exactly as before.