The Path to Certification: Steps to Become a Sex Therapist

Ugh, this whole process can be so confusing! I just need to know, what are the steps to become a sex therapist? You can relax, we are here to help walk you through this. So, you're thinking about becoming a sex therapist? That's awesome! Helping people navigate their sexual health and relationships is one of the most rewarding careers out there. But it's not just about handing out advice—you need the right education, experience, and certification. Let us guide you through the steps to becoming a certified sex therapist, including all the education and clinical requirements. You’ll soon discover why Sexual Health Alliance (SHA) is the premier program to get your certification.

Step 1: Get Your Bachelor's Degree

First things first, you'll need a bachelor's degree. Now, it doesn't have to be in psychology or therapy (though it helps), but you'll want to choose a field related to human behavior, social sciences, or health. Think psychology, sociology, social work, or even gender studies. This step is about building a strong foundation for the advanced studies you'll do later. It’s important to know that with just a bachelor’s degree, you can pursue sexuality educator certification or sexuality counselor certification. 

Step 2: Pursue a Master's or Doctoral Degree

Next, you'll need an advanced degree. Most sex therapists have a master's or doctoral degree in fields like psychology, counseling, social work, or marriage and family therapy. This step is crucial because you'll learn the theoretical frameworks and therapeutic techniques that form the backbone of your practice. Make sure that whatever degree you choose, it’s eligible for licensure in your state. The most common advanced degrees for sex therapists are master’s degrees in social work or counseling. 

Step 3: Complete Clinical Hours

Here's where things get real. To be a certified sex therapist, you need clinical experience in your chosen field. This means supervised hours working with clients as a counselor, social worker, nurse, or your other chosen profession. Depending on your state's requirements, you might need anywhere from 2,000 to 4,000 hours of supervised practice. This is your chance to get hands-on experience and learn from seasoned professionals. Finding a supervisor who's certified in sex therapy to guide you through this process could be a bonus, but not required for this stage. 

Step 4: Specialize in Sex Therapy

While you're gaining clinical experience, it's time to focus on your sex therapy education. This involves specialized training in human sexuality, sexual dysfunction, and relationship counseling. The best way to do this is by enrolling in a comprehensive sex therapy certification program (AKA: the program has ALL of the information you need to learn in each specific category). This is where Sexual Health Alliance (SHA) comes in. SHA offers a comprehensive certification program designed to give you the knowledge and skills you need to excel in sex therapy. The curriculum is designed to meet the VERY SPECIFIC educational requirements set by AASECT. Don’t waste your time piecing together workshops and short trainings when you can get everything you need in one place. 

Step 5: Get Certified in sex therapy

After completing your clinical hours and specialized training, it's time to get certified. Certification shows you've met the rigorous standards required to practice sex therapy. SHA's certification program is one of the best out there. They offer a flexible curriculum that can be completed 100% online, so you can learn at your own pace wherever is convenient for you. Plus, they focus on inclusivity and diversity, ensuring you're equipped to work with clients from all backgrounds. The SHA sex therapy program can provide you with a stand-alone certification, or provide you with the educational requirements needed for AASECT certification in sex therapy. 

Step 6: Join Professional Organizations

Once you're certified, consider joining professional organizations like the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT). Being part of these organizations gives you access to a network of professionals, continuing education opportunities, and resources to keep you at the top of your game. By getting AASECT certified, you are adding an extra layer of credibility to your certification, showing that you have met all of the requirements AND completed 50 hours of sex therapy supervision. To make this step even easier for you, SHA has a supervision-included sex therapy program for anyone who wants to continue on to AASECT certification. 

Step 7: Stay Updated and Keep Learning

The field of sex therapy is always evolving, so it's important to stay updated with the latest research, techniques, and best practices. Attend workshops, conferences, and additional training sessions to keep your skills sharp. SHA offers ongoing education and events to help you stay connected with the latest trends in sex therapy. Here’s where we will let you in on a little secret, SHA students and alumni get impressive discounts on continuing education weekends and courses. So once you complete your certification with SHA, you are part of a community that continues to learn and grow together. 

Why SHA Is the Premier Certification Program for sex therapy?

You might be wondering why we are over here talking so much about SHA. Sexual Health Alliance isn't just a certification program—they're a community. When you join, you're not just getting a certificate; you're becoming part of a network of sex-positive professionals. Their curriculum is comprehensive, covering everything from sexual dysfunction to kink awareness to relationship dynamics. Plus, their focus on inclusivity ensures you're ready to work with a diverse range of clients. 

SHA students and alumni go on Study Abroad adventures together, give each other referrals, attend conferences headlined by the stars in the sexuality field, and much more! The SHA Team is by your side every step of the way. From the moment you’re considering certification, to questions about assignments or curriculum, there’s a team of sex-positive SHA employees who have your back. 

The journey to becoming a sex therapist requires dedication, but it's so worth it. You'll be able to help people improve their sexual health, build stronger relationships, and embrace their sexuality without shame. If you're ready to take the leap, start by exploring SHA's sex therapy certification program. It's the perfect place to begin your journey and become part of a supportive, sex-positive community. Go for it, you sex-positive rockstar—you've got this!

Want to know more? Check out this SHA Blog: 

Why Become a Certified Sex Therapist? Exploring the Benefits

Are you a newbie to the field of sexuality? Let's find out which SHA certification is meant for you. Take our 'Shape the Future of Sexuality: Which Certification Is Your Calling?' quiz and embrace your future role in shaping sexuality education.

Click here to learn more about the sex therapy certification program at SHA!