Are the three in-person/online conferences covered in the cost of the program?

Yes! As a student of our program, you are required to attend three live conferences with different topics. Your required three conferences are included in your full program cost and are not an additional cost. Once you enroll, you are given access to the student codes to register and instructions to do which can be found in your SHA Student Portal. If you are attending a SHA Conference as part of your three required conferences, it is mandatory that you attend live and synchronously which means you are present and online while watching the conference. You are not permitted to watch the recording of the conference for credit towards your SHA or AASECT certification. (Exceptions for international students are made on a case-to-case basis, please contact the SHA Team to inquire).

Prior to COVID-19, each of our conferences were held in person but due to the accessibility of the online format, we’ve decided to continue offering all of our conferences virtually as access of information is something the Sexual Health Alliance values.

What does the payment plan look like?

You can find more information about our tuition here.

The program is $5,497 for Sex Therapist, Sex Counselor, and Sex Educator but the payment plans are more?

Yes, payment plans include interest.

Is there any opportunity for financial assistance?

We understand that furthering your education is expensive which is why we’ve done our best to keep costs as low as possible. We’ve added many payment plans to help spread out the cost of tuition. We also offer yearly scholarships to BIPOC individuals which you can read more about here.

Help! I need to update my payment method so I can continue paying my PayPal installment plan!

In order to update your credit card/ preferred payment method, you'll need to log into your personal PayPal account to switch over payment methods. Once you have your PayPal account updated with the correct card information, we can re-run the payment! Check out this link to Paypal's Support site with step by step instructions: What is my preferred payment method and how can I change it?

I was just accepted as a student and started my payment plan. Yay! When will I get access to the online learning platform?

Welcome! We give you access within 3 business days. You will receive a welcome email from us with further information and you’re able to begin at any time. All of our online modules are asynchronous meaning you can start whenever you’re ready!

Why do you ask for a photo with the certificate application?

We ask for any kind of photo so we can identify you at in-person and online conferences. Since we award continuing education credits, we also want to make sure you are who you say you are (i.e. someone is not pretending to be you and completing required conferences and educational work on your behalf). Your picture has zero basis in the admissions decision.

When will I hear back about an admissions decision to your program?

Applications are processed Monday through Friday within 48 hours of receipt. Applications received over the weekend will be processed by the following Tuesday.

Can I enroll in your program if I don’t have a BA degree?

We’ve mirrored our admissions requirements based on the AASECT requirements. If you do not have a Bachelor’s degree, you are qualified to enroll in our Sexuality Coach & Consultant program.

Can I defer enrollment to a later date?

Yes, up to one year, please notify us within 2 weeks of your acceptance.

On average, how many hours a week do students spend on the program?

To put it simply, as many as you can. We typically see students work through the program within a year to a year and half but that’s completely up to you. If you’re working full time, going to school, have kids, etc. it might be harder for you to devote as much time but that’s why we offer a wealth of accountability. We encourage you to finish the program within two years but if you need longer, we’re not going anywhere!

What can I do with my certification?

Anything and everything! You’re the future, but typically this is how it’s broken down:

Sex Therapy Certification: This program is for mental health professionals, trained to provide in-depth psychotherapy, who have specialized in treating clients with sexual issues and concerns. Sex therapists work with sexual concerns and, in addition, where appropriate, are prepared to provide comprehensive and intensive psychotherapy over an extended period of time in more complex cases. 

Sex Counselor Certification: This program is for those working in a clinical or medical setting, giving specific suggestions and advice. Sexuality counselors are typically Planned Parenthood counselors, nurses and other health professionals, school counselors, and clinical pastoral care and counseling providers. Sexuality counseling is generally short term and client-centered, focusing on the immediate concern or problem. 

Sex Educator Certification: This program is for those looking to lead workshops, teach classes, or organize and facilitae seminars. Sexuality educators may teach in the classroom at the elementary, secondary, and higher education levels. They may also provide education for groups of children, adolescents, or adults, training for professionals, and outreach and education in community-based, healthcare, corporate, and faith-based settings. Sexuality educators also may design and conduct workshops, courses, and seminars; contribute to the sexuality education literature; develop curriculum; plan and administer programs; deliver lectures; and provide one-on-one client education sessions. 

Sex Coach & Consultant Certification: This program is designed for those looking to provide sexuality consultations; sexuality coaching; intimacy consulting and coaching; trainings, courses and webinars; and retreats and groups.

What does your online learning look like?

We use a platform called Learnworlds which we enroll you into once tuition is paid. You’ll be able to walk through this completely at your own pace and you’ll find a mix of different learning materials including articles, exclusive webinars, video conferences, quizzes, short reflection questions, handouts, and more! Our certification program is designed to adhere to AASECT requirements V. and VI. in each discipline and is an AASECT-approved CE provider. We also work hard to regularly update the information to provide you with the most up to date knowledge in the field. 

As outlined by AASECT, the core sexuality knowledge requirements (90 hours) covers a wide range of topics such as: 

• A. Ethics and ethical behavior.

• B. Developmental sexuality from a bio-psycho-social perspective across the life course.

• C. Socio-cultural, familial factors (e.g., ethnicity, culture, religion, spirituality, socioeconomic status, family values), in relation to sexual values and behaviors.

• D. Issues related to sexual orientation and/or gender identity: heterosexuality, issues and themes impacting lesbian, gay, bisexual, pansexual, asexual people; gender identity and expression.

• E. Intimacy skills (e.g., social, emotional, sexual), intimate relationships, interpersonal relationships and family dynamics.

• F. Diversities in sexual expression and lifestyles, including, but not limited to, polyamory, swinging, BDSM and tantra.

• G. Sexual and reproductive anatomy/physiology.*

• H. Health/medical factors that may influence sexuality, including, but not limited to, illness, disability, drugs, mental health, conception, pregnancy, childbirth & pregnancy termination, contraception, fertility, HIV/AIDS, sexually transmitted infection, other infections, sexual trauma, injury and safer sex practices.*

• I. Range of sexual functioning and behavior, from optimal to problematic, including, but not limited to, common issues such as: desire discrepancy, lack of desire, difficulty achieving or maintaining arousal, sexual pain, penetration problems and difficulty with orgasm.

• J. Sexual exploitation, including sexual abuse, sexual harassment and sexual assault.

• K. Cyber sexuality and social media.*

• L. Substance use/abuse and sexuality.*

• M. Pleasure enhancement skills.

• N. Learning theory and its application.

• O. Knowledge of professional communication skills used with clients, students and colleagues.

• P. History of the discipline of sex research, theory, education, counseling and therapy.

• Q. Principles of sexuality research and research methods.

Is your program inclusive of all genders, orientations, etc.?

Abso-freaking-lutely! We are, and pride ourselves on, inclusivity. It is vastly important that our students stay up to date on all the latest research and work to foster an environment that is open and accepting of everyone.

I’m a current MA/PhD counseling student. What track should I apply for?

You may apply for either the Sex Therapy Certification track or Sex Educator track if you have a clinical degree/a degree eligible for licensure by the state. If you have a degree that is outside the sexuality field and/or not eligible for a state therapy licensure, you are able to apply for the Sexuality Counselor Certification track or the Sex Educator Certification track.

Should I get a PhD in human sexuality or clinical sexology?

Check to make sure the PhD program you are attending, or considering attending is fully accredited. Some are only licensed, and many are not accredited. This can affect your ability to gain certification and have a successful practice or business. Many Master’s programs are typically three years long and PhD programs typically take three to five years to complete. We recommend students considering a PhD program to also have the intention of conducting research or working in academia. You do not need a PhD to practice Sex Therapy or Sex Education.

If I go through your SHA Sexuality Educator Certification program and then eventually become a therapist, do I have to take your program again for the Sex Therapy certificate?

If you have already completed the Sexuality Educator track with SHA, you are eligible to purchase the Sex Therapy add-on certification to become certified as both a Sexuality Educator and Sex Therapist.

How are the program tracks different from each other

How many hours does the SHA Certification programs cover?

The differences become amplified in the practicum experiences and in the last module.

By completing the SHA Certification program, you’ll receive 90 hours of human core sexuality knowledge and 60 hours of your specialized sexuality training as outlined by AASECT V and VI requirements. These are completed through our online learning platform and live conference attendance in order to receive both e-learning and live educational requirements.

If I join and finish SHA's certification program, am I automatically certified as a Sex Educator/Counselor/Therapist? Am I guaranteed AASECT certification?

1. The Sexual Health Alliance is an approved as an Organizational AASECT CE provider. Our CE program fulfills the Human Sexuality Education: Core Knowledge areas and specific training categories for Sexuality Educators, Sexuality Counselors, and Sex Therapists outlined in AASECT's V and VI requirements through our online program and in-person conferences. Upon successful completion of our program, you will receive Sexual Health Alliance Certification but you are not guaranteed certification through AASECT as we do not award AASECT Certifications but provide all the necessary CEs to apply towards it. While we fulfill their V and VI CE requirements, you must fulfill the rest of their requirements in your chosen discipline (Typically this includes the SAR and AASECT Supervision). Please review AASECT's website for more information on what is needed to apply for their certifications: https://www.aasect.org/aasect-certification.

2. Additional Disclaimer: *This program meets the requirements of the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT) and is approved for AASECT CE credits. These CE credits may be applied toward AASECT certification and renewal of certification. Completion of this program does not ensure or guarantee AASECT certification. For further information please contact ce@aasect.org

What about a SAR? Is it included in the program cost? Do you offer one?

An online SAR is included in the cost for the Sexuality Coach & Consultant certification, Sex Therapists, Sex Counselors, and Sex Educators. We offer a virtual SAR at least once a year and an advanced SAR in person.

How many hours am I receiving for education hours? I see other programs advertising about 150 hours but I'm only seeing 90 for this program.

We provide over 150 AASECT CE hours as part of your program.

Are there outside materials I need to buy for learning for this program?

Nope! Just suggestions.

Does this program go over DSM 5 diagnosis?

Yes, and more so depending on what live weekends you choose to attend.

Is there any education on BDSM and Kink?

YES! That’s the huge distinguishing factor between our program and others. We provide intensive kink-aware content and also offer the option to become certified/specialize in those areas through our year-long Kink-Informed Certification, offered at a discount for SHA students.

Is there any testing in this program? If so, what does that look like? 

Technically, no, although we have quizzes and reflection exercises at the end of each module. It's not a pass/fail sort of situation, and students are offered the opportunity to revisit quizzes. We do keep an eye on your completed work and will reach out if there is an opportunity for focused growth.

How often in a month will I have the opportunity to discuss topics with other students or professionals? 

You'll be able to connect in community with other SHA students and professionals monthly at community events, plus conference opportunities, which often include breakout discussion rooms and workshop-style exercises. You can also learn more about our organization, access ever-growing resources and monthly events with sexceptional speakers, and connect with current SHA students and SHA alumni across professions by joining our Inner Circle Membership.

Are there any opportunities to practice what I learn with others in the program and receive feedback?

Yes, depending on the live conferences you choose to attend. We also encourage you to create your own opportunities by advocating for the community you want to see with the support of our network.

Is any clinical practice provided in the program? 

This depends on which conferences you choose! Since we often have breakout rooms at our Sexceptional Weekend events, there can be the opportunity to practice clinical skills, especially when the presenter is a clinical practitioner.

What conferences do you have coming up? I'm not in the sexuality field, can I still attend?

Check them out and register under the "Events" tab on sexualhealthalliance.com. We welcome any and all professions at our conferences and welcome diverse attendees.

Can I attend the conferences without joining the full program?

Of course! You are welcome to attend our conferences singularly as we offer AASECT CEs and make every effort to offer state CEs for counselors, social workers, and therapists. Our conferences are for everyone: those not in sexuality fields, current students, and seasoned sexuality professionals. When you register for the conferences of your choice on our website, make sure you choose the correct ticket at checkout.

What makes SHA different then the competitors?

Each program offering is unique in their own ways. SHA stands out as a leader in sexuality knowledge because our approach is community centered. Our focus is on you! We do our best to build community and offer support throughout the program with things like happy hours, mixers, Facebook groups, and in-person events (before and after COVID-19) such as additions to our conferences and Sex Nerd Trivia at bars all over.

We’re also real people, going through the program or have gone through the program with you! We understand there’s a lot of questions, and we want to be available to you when you need help.

We also support and encourage our community through partnered projects throughout the program and provide a wealth of areas to network. We love offering collaboration with our presenters and through our conferences as well - we want your education to be about you! It’s no fun to just read and write and answer questions.

Another great example of our community coming together is our WYLD Conference where we push the boundaries of what we know about sex through the lens of our SHA Rising Stars - students and alumni of our SHA programs. More than a dozen students and alumni will present on a wide range of topics.

Who is on your faculty, Advisory Board and teaches in your online webinars and your weekend conferences?

We are lucky to have some of the top professors and lecturers in the world! Many of our presenters have lectured at prestigious Universities including USC, UCLA, Princeton, The Kinsey Institute, Harvard University, University of Texas at Austin, Texas State University and more. Many of them have been featured on Anderson Cooper, Dr. Phil, The Doctors, LoveLine, WE tv’s “Sex Box” and Logo tv’s “Bad Sex,” The Today Show, VICE, CNN, HLN, OWN, Nightline, Katie Couric, Dr Drew and in Newsweek, New York Times, Daily Beast, Mens Health, Cosmo, and National Geographic, LA Times and the London Telegraph, Playboy and Hustler magazines. More information can be found here.

I have passed my licensure exam for my state, but am currently tracking hours to fully obtain my LCSW. Can I start the Sex therapy program and apply for the AASECT certificate once I have my LCSW and then begin AASECT supervision requirements? 

You can start your Sex Therapy Certification while you're in graduate school or if you've already graduated, and you can begin AASECT supervision once you have a provisional license. If you're already tracking hours for AASECT certification, you can start supervision now.

I'm a SHA Certifications student and don't know where to find the student promo codes for the upcoming conferences. Help!

Please check your SHA Student Portal for access to the promo codes and instructions on how to use them. All students must register for their intended conference so we can get a proper headcount.

Do my AASECT CEs expire?

Do I need to finish the modules before attending the conferences?

Nope! Your AASECT CEs do not expire however, please be sure to check that the requirement your submitting CEs for has not changed.

Nope! Our program is meant to be simultaneous with modules and in-person/live online conferences.

I see new content is being added to modules that I've already completed and my completion percentage(%) has changed. Do I have to go back and complete the new work? 

You do not have to go back and complete newly added content if you have completed that module. This is for new students as everyone is working in the same modules and we need to make updates from time to time.

How do I connect with other students?

There are so many ways to connect with other students the SHA programs. Socializing at conferences, mixers, and the Facebook group. We especially encourage you to interact with students while we move to online conferences during COVID-19. Treat it like an in-person conference and get to know others. Getting to know and networking with other SHA students is invaluable in building your professional network.

I have questions about the module content/a link is broken. Who do I contact?

We are here for you! Contact the SHA team at shacertifications@gmail.com and we will help.

I can't download some of the documents and I have accessibility needs. 

Some of the documents in our program can't be printed due to copyright and privacy restrictions. Please reach out to us so we can best assist and we will help.

How long do I have to complete the program?

The Sexuality Consultant program is a new program but is similarly modeled to the full certification program. We've had students complete all the requirements in 6-8 months! The program is self-paced, so please don't feel rushed. Soak up all the knowledge you can and take your time. We encourage students to complete it in 1 - 2 years but there is not a hard deadline.

Do I have to be an AASECT Member to enroll in the SHA Sex Educator/ Counselor/ Therapy program?

Nope! While we are an AASECT organizational provider and you can apply these CEs towards AASECT certification, you do not need to be an AASECT member while enrolled in our program. You also do not have to be a SHA member to enroll either but we encourage it!