If you're passionate about helping others explore healthy, informed, and fulfilling sexual lives, you've likely come across the terms "sexologist" and "sex therapist." But what exactly do these titles mean? More importantly, what are the differences in certification, training, and career paths for each? In this blog, we’ll break down the definitions, responsibilities, and educational requirements for both roles. We’ll also highlight how the Sexual Health Alliance (SHA) offers the most respected and flexible training for professionals looking to grow their careers in the field of sexual health.
Understanding the Terminology
What Is a Sex Therapist?
A sex therapist is a licensed mental health professional—often a therapist, counselor, psychologist, or social worker—who has additional training and certification in sexual health. These professionals are qualified to treat mental health issues, relationship dynamics, and sexual dysfunctions through therapeutic models. Sex therapists typically hold licenses such as LPC, LCSW, LMFT, or PsyD/PhD, and use evidence-based interventions to address issues like low desire, sexual trauma, erectile dysfunction, mismatched libidos, and more.
What Is a Sexologist?
A sexologist, on the other hand, is a broader title that encompasses experts in the field of human sexuality. Sexologists may come from diverse professional backgrounds—education, public health, research, coaching, or advocacy. They do not need to hold a clinical license to use the title. Instead, they use their expertise to coach, educate, or conduct research around sexual health topics. Sexologists often work in non-clinical settings and may be known as sex coaches, sexuality educators, or public speakers.
Certification Paths and Requirements
SHA’s Sex Therapist Certification
The Sexual Health Alliance offers a comprehensive and highly respected Sex Therapist Certification program for licensed mental health professionals. SHA is known for its innovative curriculum, flexible online options, and the depth of training it provides. Here’s what to expect:
Eligibility: Must be a licensed therapist (LPC, LMFT, LCSW, PhD, PsyD, etc.) or currently in the process of licensure.
Training Requirements: Includes 200+ hours of education in sexual health, clinical application, and sex therapy models.
Core Competencies: Includes trauma-informed care, LGBTQIA+ inclusivity, sexual dysfunction treatment, kink- and poly-aware therapy, and more.
SHA’s training program allows for rolling admission, which means professionals can join at any time and learn at their own pace. SHA is also recognized by Forbes and other reputable platforms for being at the forefront of modern sex therapy education.
SHA’s Sex Coach/Sexologist Certification
For those without a clinical license—or those who prefer education, coaching, or advocacy—SHA’s Sex Coach/Sexologist Certification offers another exciting path.
Eligibility: Open to professionals from various fields, including coaching, education, fitness, and media.
Training Requirements: Includes 200+ hours of coursework on human sexuality, communication, sexual ethics, coaching skills, and inclusivity.
Special Topics: Covers areas such as sexual self-esteem, arousal education, consent practices, and working with diverse populations.
Business Development: Includes training on marketing, ethics, and building a thriving sex coaching business.
This certification is ideal for people interested in helping others through teaching, mentoring, speaking, or coaching—not diagnosing or treating clinical disorders.
Career Opportunities in Sexual Health
What Jobs Can You Get with a Sex Therapist Certification?
Becoming a certified sex therapist opens the door to a wide range of in-demand positions. Some career paths include:
Private practice therapist specializing in sexual issues
Couples and sex therapist with a focus on intimacy and desire
Clinical supervisor or consultant
Guest expert on media outlets and podcasts
Sex-positive educator or author
Workshop facilitator for sexual health and relationships
Sex therapists are often sought after in large cities and underserved communities alike. As stigma around sexual health decreases, more individuals and couples are seeking professional help for their sexual concerns.
What Jobs Can You Get with a Sexologist or Sex Coach Certification?
A sexologist or certified sex coach may work in non-clinical environments and focus more on education, empowerment, and advocacy. Potential roles include:
Sex coach for individuals or couples
Public speaker or media personality on sexual wellness
Workshop leader or retreat facilitator
Sexuality educator in schools, universities, or community programs
Content creator or author on sex-positive topics
Consultant for sex tech or adult wellness brands
Since sexologists are not constrained by clinical licensure laws, they can often work internationally or online with more flexibility. Many graduates of SHA’s sexologist program have gone on to build thriving businesses and large social media followings.
Why Choose SHA for Your Sex Therapist Certification or Sexologist Training?
The Sexual Health Alliance is one of the most trusted names in the field of sexual health education. Here’s why SHA stands out:
Flexibility: Offers fully online, hybrid, and international study abroad options.
Expert Faculty: Learn from leaders in the field such as Dr. Justin Lehmiller, Dr. Zhana Vrangalova, Dr. David Ley, and other renowned educators.
Affordability: Transparent pricing and payment plans make high-quality training accessible.
Inclusivity: SHA is dedicated to intersectional, trauma-informed, and pleasure-positive education.
Community: Students gain access to an international network of professionals and mentorship.
Recognition: SHA-trained professionals are regularly featured in major media outlets and highly sought after in both clinical and non-clinical settings.
Whether you’re a licensed therapist wanting to deepen your practice or a new professional seeking to educate and empower others, SHA provides the tools, knowledge, and support you need to thrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Difference Between a Sexologist and a Sex Therapist Certification?
A sex therapist certification is designed for licensed mental health professionals and allows them to treat clinical sexual dysfunctions within therapy settings. This certification typically requires licensure, advanced coursework, and supervised clinical hours. A sexologist certification, often referred to as a sex coach certification, does not require a clinical license and is intended for those who want to educate, coach, or advocate in the field of sexuality. While both professions require deep knowledge of human sexuality, they differ in scope, training, and the types of services they provide.
SHA offers industry-leading certification programs for both paths, empowering professionals to pursue meaningful work in sexual wellness, whether through therapy, education, or coaching.
Ready to take the next step to become an in-demand sexual health professional?
Want to become an in-demand sexual health professional? Learn more about becoming certified with SHA!
