As we wrap up an incredible year, it's time to reflect on all the milestones, events, and exciting developments at Sexual Health Alliance (SHA) in 2024! From our groundbreaking Fast-Track Certification program launch to hosting dynamic conferences with industry leaders like Dr. Chris Donaghue, Dr. Justin Lehmiller, and Dr. Elisabeth Sheff, it’s been a year of growth, education, and community building. SHA members engaged in thought-provoking workshops on diverse topics such as ethical decision-making, BDSM education, polyamory, and pelvic pain treatment, all while connecting through both in-person events in Denver and engaging online sessions. Let’s dive into the highlights of SHA’s 2024 and celebrate the continued advancement of sexual health education and practice!
January 2024: Exploring male sexual orientation and identity
Sexual Trauma To Triumph & Straight Guise with Dr. Joe Kort
Dr. Joe Kort delivered an enlightening and transformative presentaion that explored the complexities of male sexual orientation and identity. Participants gained insights into distinguishing between gay, straight, bi, and fluid identities, as well as practical tools like the “beach test” and four essential questions to help male clients better understand their sexual orientation. The workshop highlighted the critical difference between erotic and sexual orientation and provided techniques for supporting couples navigating sexual identity confusion. Attendees also learned about six distinct sexual identities, fostering deeper self-awareness and understanding. This session proved to be an invaluable resource for professionals looking to enhance their skills in working with male clients and their relationships.
February 2024: Learning about kink with Midori and Friends
Kinky Sexceptional Weekend with Midori
Midori's presentation was frank and engaging, encouraging participants to share first-person perspectives in discussions. Over two transformative days, attendees explored what BDSM practitioners need to know, the challenges they face, and a practical, judgment-free framework and language for understanding BDSM. The workshop delved into improving cultural proficiency of North American BDSM, utilizing Midori’s “BDSM Appetite Grid” for enhanced play and pleasure, and mastering her collaborative and co-creative negotiation methods. Participants also gained insights into constructive versus destructive erotic humiliation play and developed a working knowledge of models to conceptualize and discuss this sensitive topic. The event featured illuminating discussions led by a subject matter expert with decades of lived experience, leaving attendees with valuable tools and a deeper understanding of BDSM.
March 2024: Learning about sexual health from around the world
SHA hosted an extraordinary event exploring human sexuality around the world, led by Dr. Justin Lehmiller, a research fellow at the Kinsey Institute and Harvard Excellence award winner. The event also featured esteemed global experts, including David F. Khalili, Lesley Croft, Candia Raquel, Garibay Camarena, Cam Fraser, Tatyannah King, and Jeff Mannes. Together, they provided attendees with diverse perspectives and invaluable insights into the complexities of human sexuality across cultures.
Read more here: What's your fantasy? Highlights from the Sexual Health Alliance Fantasy & Desire Around the World Event
April 2024: Becoming more knowledgeable about non-monogamy
MONOGAMISH! Plus Advanced Skills for Open and Poly Relationships
Dr. Elisabeth "Eli" Sheff, a renowned academic expert on polyamorous families with children, headlined this insightful event. With a PhD in Sociology, Dr. Sheff brought decades of research on gender and sexual minority families, consensual non-monogamy (CNM), and kink/BDSM. She shared key findings from her 20+ year study of polyamorous families and insights from her acclaimed books, including The Polyamorists Next Door and When Someone You Love is Polyamorous.
The two-day training offered a comprehensive look at CNM and its intersections with communication, consent, and family dynamics. Day 1 featured sessions on diverse forms of non-monogamy, navigating metamour relationships, and exploring swinging culture. Day 2 focused on polyamorous families with children and the interplay of CNM and BDSM. Through thought-provoking lectures and discussions, attendees left with a deeper understanding of CNM and practical tools for cultivating connection and respect in their relationships.
Read more here: Monogamish: Highlights from a Sexual Health Alliance Educational Weekend
May 2024: SHA Students took their education over seas!
Study Abroad with SHA in Amsterdam with Dr. Justin Lehmiller
This immersive event provided students with the unique opportunity to conduct a comparative analysis of sexual attitudes and behaviors in the Netherlands and the United States. Through an in-depth exploration of the Dutch model, participants examined the nation’s progressive approach to sexual health, including comprehensive sex education, same-sex marriage legalization, and the regulation of sex work. Students also delved into LGBTQ issues in the Netherlands, gaining insights into the country's inclusive policies and practices. By immersing themselves in Dutch culture, attendees enhanced their cultural sensitivity and broadened their global perspective, leaving with valuable lessons on fostering better sexual health outcomes.
Study Abroad with SHA in Berlin with Dr. Justin Lehmiller
This Study Abroad session allowed students to perform a comparative analysis of sexual attitudes and behaviors in Germany and the United States, highlighting key contrasts between the two countries. While the U.S. lacks a federal requirement for sex education, Germany has mandated it in all schools since 1992, contributing to a teen pregnancy rate three times lower than that of the U.S. Students explored Germany's pioneering contributions to sexual health and rights, including the establishment of the first gay rights organization in 1897 and the world’s first “Institute for Sexual Science.” The course also examined Germany’s regulated system for sex work and its globally recognized kink establishments. By immersing themselves in German culture, participants deepened their cultural sensitivity and gained a broader global perspective.
June 2024: SHA made learning about ethics fun!
Ethics, Ethical Dilemmas, Decision Making And Countertransference
This workshop provided attendees with the tools to effectively navigate complaints against their clinical licenses, offering a comprehensive understanding of the intricate processes involved. Participants examined the evolving political and legal landscape in the United States, focusing on its influence on sexual health practices and the increasing risks of complaints or litigation. The workshop emphasized the importance of ethical practices in healthcare, particularly as a means of safeguarding minority populations, and delivered actionable, practical skills over theoretical guidelines.
Topics included handling inappropriate client or supervisor interactions, navigating dual roles as sex workers and therapists, managing relationships within professional spaces, and addressing issues like colleague impairment and malicious complaints. Sessions featured expert speakers like Jen Meyer, Dr. David Ley, Kelvin Pace, and Heather McPherson, who shared insights on ethical decision-making, psychosexual assessments, and the complexities of ethics in supervision, group practices, and social media. Interactive elements, including role-play scenarios, helped participants apply these principles to real-world situations.
Read more here: I Can’t Do What?! A Recap of Ethics, Ethical Dilemmas, Decision-Making And Countertransference
AASECT Conference Sponsor in St. Louis, MO
Sexual Health Alliance proudly sponsored and attended the AASECT Conference in St. Louis, Missouri, as the official plenary sponsor. The event offered an incredible opportunity for SHA community members to connect and create lasting memories. Together, we enjoyed a ride on The Wheel at Union Station, shared lively dinners, and experienced a dazzling burlesque show at The Boom Boom Room. It was an unforgettable week of community building, meaningful conversations, and advancing sexual health education.
August 2024: A gathering of the top researchers in sexual health
Keeping The Spark Alive
The Keeping the Spark Alive event brought together top researchers in sexuality and couples therapy from leading universities worldwide. This dynamic gathering, led by renowned researcher Dr. Rhonda Balzarini, provided attendees with cutting-edge, evidence-based techniques for working with couples. Topics ranged from addressing female orgasm challenges to navigating sexual relationships after trauma, offering valuable insights for every sexuality professional. It was an inspiring and educational event, empowering professionals with tools to enhance their practice and support couples in meaningful ways.
Read more here: Keeping the Spark Alive 2024: Event Recap!
September 2024: SHA gets down to business with the experts
3rd Annual Online Sexceptional Business Summit
This event brought together a stellar lineup of experts to explore the intersection of media, business, and sexual health. Dr. Chris Donaghue shared insights on engaging with media through a purpose-driven approach, drawing from his experience hosting prominent shows and contributing to major publications. Dr. Justin Lehmiller discussed leveraging podcasting to advance sex education, highlighting his success with the Sex and Psychology podcast. Cindy Gallop inspired attendees with her innovative solutions for sex-related businesses, emphasizing her groundbreaking platform, MakeLoveNotPorn. April Lampert and Amy Baldwin of Shameless Sex revealed strategies for podcasting success in the sexual health space, while Dr. Soum Rakshit showcased engineering solutions for common sexual health issues through MysteryVibe.
On Sunday, Shan Boodram captivated audiences with her expertise in building service ecosystems, hosting a candid Q&A session that encouraged attendees to dive deep into her knowledge. Dr. Sonya Maya addressed ethical conversations about sexual health on social media, navigating censorship challenges with poise. Dr. David J. Ley closed the event with strategies for engaging with media as a sex expert, drawing from his extensive experience across television and print media. This dynamic event, capped by closing remarks from SHA, offered attendees unparalleled opportunities to learn from some of the most influential voices in sexual health and media.
October 2024: The in-person event we’ve waited for all year!
SHA’s Annual Sexological Conference
Sexual Health Alliance hosted its Annual Sexological Conference in Denver, Colorado, creating an inspiring and inclusive space for sexuality leaders and enthusiasts. The event celebrated diverse perspectives, explored groundbreaking ideas, and brought together over 25 presenters and several keynote speakers, including renowned expert Dr. Chris Donaghue. Curated by Dr. Donaghue and the SHA board, the workshops and sessions showcased the brightest minds in the field and offered attendees valuable insights into the evolving landscape of sexual health. Open to all, the conference fostered a welcoming environment where participants felt empowered, educated, and inspired to dream beyond the known boundaries of sexuality.
November 2024: Learning sex doesn’t have to hurt and a Krampus themed SAR
Treating Pelvic Pain, Vulva Edition
Featuring Nicoletta Heidegger and Kayna Cassard, this Sexceptional Weekend workshop provided an in-depth exploration of treating pelvic pain and painful sexual experiences, offering attendees a biopsychosocial framework for addressing this common yet under-discussed issue. Participants learned about the causes of pelvic pain, multi-system assessment techniques, treatment modalities, and compassionate strategies to support clients. With chronic vulvovaginal pain affecting over a quarter of women in the U.S. and accounting for 10% of gynecology visits, the workshop highlighted the significant impact of pelvic pain on quality of life, relationships, and sexual desire. This two-day event shed light on the cultural normalization of painful sex for femmes, equipping professionals with tools to counter the lack of training, research, and discourse in this critical area of sexual health.
Read more here: Pelvic Pain, Vulva Edition Online Weekend Event Recap
Naughty or Knot: Krampus is Coming: Online SAR
The "Krampus is Coming!" event, a special edition of a Sexceptional SAR, took place online as an AASECT-approved training featuring Dr. David Ley, Jen Meyer, Kelvin Pace, Heather McPherson, and several special guests. This dynamic weekend included breakout sessions, small group dialogues, and interactive learning opportunities designed to challenge participants' beliefs, values, and biases surrounding sexuality. Through experiential activities, group discussions, and role-plays, educators, counselors, coaches, and therapists had the chance to reconnect with their attitudes toward various aspects of human sexuality in a safe and supportive environment, complete with self-reflection time and guided discussions.
December 2024: Top Secret (you’re in the know if you made it to the end)
Alternate program launch for current SHA students!
SHA launched its new Fast-Track Program for current students, designed to help them fast-track their certification as sexuality professionals. If you found yourself struggling to stay focused on self-paced reading or easily getting distracted, this new option provided a more structured and streamlined format. Offering the same comprehensive education, AASECT eligibility, and certification, the Fast-Track Program allowed students to complete the program in just 6-12 months (or less) through live, interactive weekend sessions with minimal self-paced learning. This innovative approach emphasized real-time collaboration, community engagement, and expert feedback, ensuring students received the necessary skills and knowledge without compromising on quality. The SHA Fast-Track program was introduced as an optional add-on for students already enrolled in the traditional certification program.
SHA is advancing sexual health education, fostering community, and supporting professionals
As we close the chapter on 2024, Sexual Health Alliance is proud of the strides we've made in advancing sexual health education, fostering community, and supporting professionals in the field. From the launch of our Fast-Track Certification program to hosting unforgettable events with renowned experts, we've continued to break barriers and create spaces for learning and connection. Whether diving deep into topics like polyamory, pelvic pain, or ethical decision-making, our community has remained engaged and passionate about shaping the future of sexuality. Today, we celebrate the amazing progress made this year and look forward to continuing this journey together in 2025!
Learn more about our 2025 events here!
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