The certification of sexuality professions is crucial because there is tremendous interest globally in the field of sexual health, increased public awareness of sexual issues, and demands for information and treatment. The American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors, and Therapists, founded in 1967, established standards nationally and internationally for the certification of sexuality educators, counselors, therapists, and supervisors of sex therapy. Their Code of Ethics, Training, and Supervision is essential to not only protect consumers, but also to ensure the efficacy of treatment. This presentation will discuss the rationale for developing standardized minimum qualifications for sexuality professionals, a review of the certification guidelines, the means of obtaining certification nationally and internationally, and specific case examples reflecting the importance of certification in maintaining the legitimacy of the field.
Conflict of Interest: None disclosed
Financial Support/Funding: None disclosed
Recorded: Sydney, Australia, April 2007
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