The American Assocation of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT.org) provides certification to those who complete a post-graduate learning and supervision process, providing a standard measure for specialists who address matters relating to sexual health while following an ethical practice rooted in a DEI lens.
Sexuality educators may teach in the classroom at the elementary, secondary, and higher education levels. They may also provide education for groups of children, adolescents, or adults, training for professionals, and outreach and education in community-based, healthcare, corporate, and faith-based settings. Sexuality educators also may design and conduct workshops, courses, and seminars; contribute to the sexuality education literature, develop curriculum; plan and administer programs; deliver lectures and provide one-on-one client education sessions.
Examples of sexuality counselors are Planned Parenthood counselors, nurses and other health professionals, school counselors, and clinical pastoral care and counseling providers.
The above designations are accessible to persons possessing at least a bachelor’s degree in the appropriate vocation. Sex therapists are those who have at least a master’s degree and are independently licensed to practice mental health therapy in their region that includes the ability to diagnosis and treat disorders found in the DSM.
Sex Therapists address sexual concerns, including, but not limited to: sexual function and dysfunction; sexual pleasure; sexual variation; sexuality and disability; sexuality and chronic illness; sexual development across the lifespan; sexual abuse, assault, and coercion; sexual orientation; gender identity.
To be certified at any level one must complete 150 clocked hours of education experiences, a Sexual Attitude Reassessment (the SAR is a multi-day closed group seminar), and minimum of 18 months (50 hours) of Supervision. CE requirements can be acquired at any time, regardless of membership status with AASECT, and they do not expire. Supervision requires AASECT membership.
