Earning your certification through Sexual Health Alliance (SHA) is a major achievement—one that reflects your deep commitment to inclusive, evidence-based training in sexual health. But here’s the truth: most graduates don’t fully leverage the power of their SHA credential. It’s time to change that.
By showcasing your SHA Certification across your professional platforms, you not only elevate your credibility—you also help strengthen the reputation of SHA-trained professionals everywhere. Here’s how and why to start using your SHA Certified title and badge today.
Why Your SHA Certification Matters
In the world of sexual health, not all certifications are created equal. Many professionals advertise being “certified” after as little as 4 hours of training. By contrast, SHA students receive significantly more education, mentorship, and live interaction with sexual health experts, far exceeding other programs, including those affiliated with AASECT. The average SHA student receives over 200 hours of comprehensive sexual health education. What a difference!
Your SHA Certification signals:
Advanced training in sex therapy, sex education, sexuality counseling, or sex coaching
A commitment to inclusive, trauma-informed, and culturally competent care
Expert-level knowledge gained through live online weekends and specialized coursework
Access to the most current practices in sexual health and wellness
When you identify yourself as SHA Certified, you set yourself apart.
Your SHA Certification Is Global
One of the most powerful aspects of being SHA Certified is the global recognition and reach of your training. Sexual Health Alliance has students and alumni in over 70 countries, making it one of the most internationally connected certification programs in the world. Whether you're practicing in Europe, Asia, Africa, South America, or beyond, your SHA credentials demonstrate a high standard of education and credibility.
Unlike AASECT—which only certifies professionals in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Israel—SHA’s certification is designed for professionals everywhere. That means your work can cross borders and make an impact on a truly global scale. As a SHA Certified professional, you’re part of an international network of leaders in sexual health.
What Does It Mean to Be SHA Certified?
If you’ve completed your program with SHA, you’re eligible to use the following designations (depending on your track):
SHA Certified Sex Therapist (CST)
SHA Certified Couples and Sex Therapist (CCST)
SHA Certified Sex Educator (CSE)
SHA Certified Sexuality Counselor (CSC)
SHA Certified Sex Coach or Consultant
These titles are a direct reflection of the extensive education and experience you’ve received. Use them confidently—your work and your training back it up.
Where to Share Your SHA Certification
Want to make the most of your credential? Start by updating your professional presence across every channel where your clients or colleagues may find you.
Here are the best places to showcase your SHA Certification:
✅ Your website homepage and About page
✅ Bio sections on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and TikTok
✅ Your email signature
✅ Psychology Today or Therapy Den profiles
✅ Coaching and educational program materials
✅ Conference speaker bios and workshop descriptions
✅ Resumes, CVs, and media kits
The more visible your SHA certification is, the more likely you are to attract clients who value your expertise.
Use the SHA Certified Badge
Along with your certification title, SHA provides graduates with a professional SHA Certified badge. Adding this badge to your website and marketing assets gives potential clients and collaborators an immediate visual cue that you’re qualified, vetted, and serious about your work in sexual health.
Tips for using the badge:
Add it to your website sidebar or footer
Include it in your course or webinar slides
Place it on your digital business cards or PDFs
Use it in your email footer alongside your contact info
This simple addition can boost credibility and increase trust at first glance.
What If I Haven’t Graduated Yet?
Even if you haven’t completed your SHA certification, you can still highlight your progress and commitment to sexual health education. Using phrases like “SHA Certified Sex Therapist (in training)”, “Sex Educator in progress through SHA”, or “Currently enrolled in the Sexual Health Alliance Certification Program” allows you to share your credentials transparently and professionally.
This helps build trust with potential clients and collaborators, while also signaling that you’re receiving one of the most comprehensive and respected trainings available. It’s a great way to stand out from others in the field and show that you’re actively investing in your expertise.
Become a SHA Certified Professional in a Specialty Area
In addition to comprehensive sex therapy, education, counseling, and coaching certifications, SHA also offers specialty certification programs that allow professionals to deepen their expertise in specific areas of sexual health. Whether you're passionate about working with kink communities or addressing problem sexual behavior, these specialty certifications help you stand out in your field.
Current offerings include:
These programs are designed to be advanced, practical, and immediately applicable in clinical, coaching, and educational settings.
Benefits of earning a specialty certification:
Build niche expertise and grow your referral network
Enhance your credibility with both clients and colleagues
Gain confidence in supporting clients with specific sexual health concerns
Stay up-to-date with the latest research and best practices
Attract new clients looking for specialized support
And the best part? SHA students and alumni receive 50% off all specialty certification programs, making it even easier to expand your credentials and impact.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’ve earned your SHA Certification, don’t keep it to yourself. Let it lead the way in your professional presence.
Update your bios
Add your SHA Certified title
Display the badge
Share your training proudly
And if you need help incorporating your certification into your materials—or want to request the SHA Certified badge—reach out to the SHA team at shacertifications@gmail.com. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
