Pursuing sex therapy certification is an investment in your career and professional growth. For many therapists, educators, and counselors, this certification opens the door to new opportunities, higher earnings, and the ability to provide much-needed support for clients navigating sexual health concerns. But how much does it actually cost to become certified? At Sexual Health Alliance (SHA), our programs are designed to be affordable while offering unmatched value in the field of sex therapy education.
SHA Certification vs. Traditional University Tuition
Many professionals assume that advancing their education in sex therapy requires attending a university-based program. However, these programs often come with hefty tuition fees that can total tens of thousands of dollars. In contrast, SHA’s certification programs provide high-quality, specialized education at a fraction of the cost, making professional training more accessible to those passionate about working in the field of sexual health.
The Cost of Higher Education in the United States
The cost of higher education in the United States can be significant, especially for those pursuing advanced degrees in counseling, psychology, or social work. Traditional universities often charge high tuition rates, making certification programs like Sexual Health Alliance’s (SHA) a more affordable and accessible option. For example, the average tuition for a master’s degree in counseling at a public university ranges from $10,000 to $25,000 per year, while private universities can charge $30,000 to $60,000 per year or more. Some notable examples include:
Harvard University (Master’s in Counseling Psychology) – $64,978 per year
University of Southern California (Master’s in Social Work) – $60,500 per year
University of Texas at Austin (Master’s in Counseling Psychology) – $12,028 per year (in-state), $22,886 (out-of-state)
New York University (Master’s in Mental Health Counseling) – $56,500 per year
Boston College (Master’s in Social Work) – $42,340 per year
In contrast, SHA’s Sex Therapy Certification programs are designed to provide specialized training at a fraction of the cost of a traditional graduate degree, making it a cost-effective investment in your career.
The Cost of SHA Sex Therapy Certification
SHA offers flexible certification programs tailored to meet the needs of busy professionals. Our programs are competitively priced and often more affordable than other options in the field, while still delivering exceptional training, expert-led instruction, and a supportive learning community.
The cost of certification varies depending on whether you choose the pathway with AASECT Supervision or without.
Sex Therapy Certification without AASECT Supervision ($5,497)
This option still provides comprehensive training and certification through SHA but does not include direct AASECT Supervision, allowing for a more cost-effective route. The cost for the entire sex therapy certification program is $5,497. (Keep in mind, even the lowest university tuition mentioned above is around $12,000. That is per year and not the total cost of the program.)
Sex Therapy Certification with AASECT Supervision ($9,697)
This option includes 50 hours of mentorship from an AASECT-certified supervisor and fulfills all necessary supervision requirements for those seeking AASECT sex therapy certification. The cost for the sex therapy certification program with supervision is $9,697. Keep in mind that supervision can easily cost upwards of $150 per hour. That can be an additional $7,500 or more, depending on the available supervisors. At Sexual Health Alliance, our in-house supervision is offered for just $4,200 when included in the tuition payment.
Monthly Payment Plans for Sex Therapy Certification
Understanding that finances can be a concern, SHA offers flexible monthly payment plans to make certification more accessible. Instead of requiring a large upfront payment, students can spread the cost over manageable installments. This makes it easier for professionals to pursue their certification while balancing other financial responsibilities.
Sexual Health Alliance offers several monthly payment options for Sex Therapy Certification. Take a look at the information below.
Sex Therapy Certification without AASECT Supervision
3 Payment Option: $1,897
12 Month Payment Option: $497/month
18 Month Payment Option: $347/month
24 Month Payment Option: $269/month
Sex Therapy Certification with AASECT Supervision
3 Payment Option: $3,327
12 Month Payment Option: $837/month
18 Month Payment Option: $597/month
The Benefits of SHA Certification
Investing in sex therapy certification through SHA provides significant career and financial advantages. Here’s what makes our program stand out:
Affordable & High-Value Training – Compared to university programs, SHA certification delivers expert-led instruction at a fraction of the cost.
Career Advancement – Certified sex therapists are in high demand, allowing for increased job opportunities and higher earning potential.
Flexible Learning – Our programs are designed for working professionals, with online courses and payment plans that fit different schedules and budgets.
Networking & Community – SHA-certified professionals gain access to a strong network of peers, mentors, and industry leaders, providing ongoing support and opportunities.
Expanded Practice Scope – Certification allows professionals to address a wider range of client concerns, improving client outcomes and professional credibility.
The Investment in Yourself as a Professional
Choosing to pursue sex therapy certification isn’t just a financial decision—it’s an investment in your professional future. With growing demand for trained sex therapists, this certification enhances your ability to serve clients effectively while increasing your marketability. SHA’s commitment to affordability, expert instruction, and flexible payment options makes it the ideal choice for professionals looking to advance their careers without breaking the bank.
Is the cost of Sex Therapy Certification Worth It?
If you’re passionate about sexual health and helping clients navigate intimacy challenges, then investing in a sex therapy certification through SHA is a worthwhile step. With cost-effective training, flexible payment options, and high-value education, SHA makes it easier than ever to take your career to the next level.
Ready to Get Started?
If you’ve been considering becoming a certified sex therapist, now is the time to take the next step. Explore SHA’s certification options and find the right path for you. With affordable pricing, expert-led training, and unparalleled support, SHA is here to help you invest in your future.
*The prices listed in this blog are the certification prices as of April 3,2025 and are subject to change.
