Why Get a Specialty Certification with SHA
As the field of sexuality education and therapy continues to evolve, staying at the forefront of knowledge and expertise is essential for professionals seeking to make a significant impact. Sexual Health Alliance (SHA) offers a range of specialty certifications designed to equip individuals with advanced skills and insights in specific areas of sexuality. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore how gaining SHA's specialty certifications in Problem Sexual Behavior (PSB), Consensual Non-Monogamy (CNM), and Kink Informed (KIC) can significantly benefit post-completion and how students can effectively highlight these certifications on their websites and other places of work.
I. Problem Sexual Behavior (PSB) Certification
Problem Sexual Behavior is an emerging area of focus in the field of sexuality. By obtaining the PSB certification, professionals gain specialized knowledge in understanding and addressing problematic sexual behaviors and compulsions. This certification is particularly valuable for therapists, counselors, educators, and coaches who work with individuals seeking help with sexual compulsivity, addiction, and other related issues.
Post-Completion Benefits:
Specialized Expertise: With the PSB certification, professionals become adept at identifying underlying causes and triggers of problematic sexual behaviors. They can tailor effective treatment plans to address these issues and provide compassionate support to their clients.
Expanded Client Base: As awareness of problem sexual behavior grows, more individuals seek help for these concerns. Holding a PSB certification enhances a professional's reputation and opens doors to work with diverse clientele.
Professional Recognition: SHA's PSB certification is AASECT-approved, which adds credibility to a therapist's or counselor's practice. This recognition is highly regarded within the field of sexual health and therapy.
Highlighting the PSB Certification:
Professionals can proudly display the PSB certification logo on their websites, business cards, and promotional materials to showcase their expertise in problem sexual behavior.
On their websites, they can create a dedicated page or section that highlights their specialized training, explaining how they can assist clients dealing with problematic sexual behaviors.
II. Consensual Non-Monogamy (CNM) Certification
With the growing acknowledgment of consensual non-monogamous relationships, there is an increasing demand for knowledgeable professionals who can provide competent and supportive guidance. SHA's CNM certification equips professionals with the skills to work ethically and inclusively with clients exploring or engaging in non-monogamous relationships.
Post-Completion Benefits:
Inclusive Practice: CNM-certified professionals foster a non-judgmental and inclusive environment, making individuals in non-monogamous relationships feel heard, understood, and respected.
Niche Expertise: CNM certification sets professionals apart as experts in navigating the complexities of consensual non-monogamy. This expertise attracts clients seeking specialized guidance in alternative relationship structures.
Personal Growth: Engaging in CNM training promotes personal growth and challenges societal norms, enabling professionals to explore their own biases and preconceptions about non-monogamous relationships.
Highlighting the CNM Certification:
Professionals can prominently feature the CNM certification logo on their websites, LinkedIn profiles, and other online platforms to signal their competence in working with consensual non-monogamy.
Creating informative blog posts or articles on their websites discussing the benefits and challenges of non-monogamous relationships can demonstrate their expertise.
III. Kink Informed (KIC) Certification
The Kink Informed Certification offered by SHA prepares professionals to work knowledgeably and sensitively with individuals and couples exploring kink, BDSM, and alternative sexuality. KIC-certified professionals become adept at fostering open and non-judgmental spaces for clients to explore their desires and fantasies.
Post-Completion Benefits:
Specialized Understanding: KIC-certified professionals gain insights into the psychological, emotional, and physical aspects of kink and BDSM dynamics, enabling them to guide clients in consensual exploration.
Ethical Practice: With a KIC certification, professionals learn about the importance of safety, consent, and boundaries in kink relationships, ensuring that their clients' experiences are ethical and empowering.
Enhanced Client Trust: Individuals seeking to explore kink and BDSM often feel vulnerable and hesitant. Having a KIC certification can build trust, assuring clients that they are working with a knowledgeable and affirming professional.
Highlighting the KIC Certification:
Professionals can showcase the KIC certification logo on their websites and marketing materials, signaling their competence in working with alternative sexualities.
Including a section on their websites that highlights their understanding of kink, BDSM, and alternative sexualities, along with testimonials from satisfied clients, can help build credibility.
Obtaining SHA specialty certifications in Problem Sexual Behavior, Consensual Non-Monogamy, and Kink Informed offers numerous benefits for professionals in the sexuality field. The post-completion advantages include specialized expertise, an expanded client base, and professional recognition. By effectively highlighting these certifications on their websites and other platforms, professionals can establish themselves as experts in their respective niches and attract clients seeking specialized guidance. Embracing continued education and certification is key to empowering sexuality professionals to provide progressive and compassionate services that promote sexual well-being and inclusivity.
