Certified Sex Therapist (CST)
The Certified Sex Therapist (CST) credential is a certification for professionals who have specialized training in the field of human sexuality and provide therapy to individuals, couples, and groups to address sexual concerns. The certification requires extensive training, supervision, and adherence to ethical standards.
Total Cost
Estimated Budget
Median Salary
Annual Earnings
Job Growth
10-Year Outlook
Training Hours
Total Program Duration
Who Needs This Credential?
This credential is necessary for professionals such as psychologists, social workers, counselors, and medical doctors who aim to specialize in sex therapy and address sexual health issues within their practice.
Reciprocity varies by state and depends on each state's licensing requirements for health professionals. CSTs often need to meet additional state-specific criteria to practice in different states.
Requirements
To become a Certified Sex Therapist, candidates must complete specific educational and training requirements, pass a background check, and meet health criteria. Eligibility primarily hinges on holding a minimum level of education and completing a set number of training hours in the field.
- Minimum Age
- 21
- Minimum Education
- Master's degree in psychology, counseling, social work, or a related field
- Training Hours
- 150 hours of specific sex therapy training
- Background Check
- Criminal history, professional disciplinary record
Other Requirements
How to Become CST Certified
Becoming a Certified Sex Therapist involves a multi-step process typically spanning over 2 to 3 years. The path includes obtaining necessary prerequisites, completing specialized training, accruing clinical experience, and passing a certification exam.
Meet Educational Requirements
Candidates must have a minimum of a master's degree in a mental health field such as psychology, counseling, social work, or marriage and family therapy from an accredited institution.
Ensure the program is accredited and focuses on clinical practice.
Obtain Licensure in Mental Health Field
Secure a license to practice in your mental health field. This generally requires passing a state or national licensing exam after completing your degree.
Check specific state requirements early to align educational pursuits accordingly.
Complete Sex Therapy Training Program
Enroll in a sex therapy training program approved by the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT). These programs cover specific topics like sexual dysfunction, sex education, and therapy techniques.
Choose a program that offers practical applications and case studies.
Accrue Supervised Clinical Experience
Accumulate a minimum of 300 hours of direct client contact in sex therapy, supervised by an AASECT-certified sex therapy supervisor. This includes at least 50 hours of direct supervision.
Seek diverse cases to gain broad experience in different aspects of sex therapy.
Document Continuing Education
Complete additional continuing education specific to sex therapy, as required by AASECT. This often includes courses on cultural competence, ethics, and specific therapy methods.
Stay updated with new research and methodologies in the field of sex therapy.
Apply for Certification
Submit your application for certification to AASECT, including proof of education, licensure, training, supervision, and continuing education. An application review follows, ensuring all criteria are met.
Ensure all documentation is thorough and accurately reflects your qualifications.
Pass the Certification Exam
Take and pass the AASECT certification exam, which tests your knowledge and skills in sex therapy.
Prepare by reviewing major topics covered during your training and clinical experiences.
Cost Breakdown
The total cost of becoming a Certified Sex Therapist varies based on factors such as location, choice of training program, and additional requirements. Financial aid options and employer sponsorship can significantly influence these expenses.
💰 Financial Aid Available
Some employers offer sponsorship for certification-related expenses, particularly if it aligns with professional roles within the organization.
Salary & Career Outlook
Entry Level
$45,000
Median Salary
$65,010
Experienced
$85,000
Job Outlook: 11.5%
The growth in employment for Certified Sex Therapists is driven by increasing societal recognition of the importance of mental health and sexual well-being. Additionally, demographic trends, such as an aging population seeking to maintain sexual health, and policy changes expanding healthcare coverage for mental health services, contribute to this positive job outlook.
Exam Information
The Certified Sex Therapist exam assesses knowledge and skills in sexual health and therapy. It includes a written test that covers various aspects of sex therapy. Candidates should prepare by reviewing clinical practices, ethical standards, and theoretical approaches related to the field.
Certified Sex Therapist Exam
Administered by American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT) • Fee: $350
Career Advancement Paths
Industry Insights
Data from Bureau of Labor Statistics & O*NET
Certified Sex Therapists See a Promising Future with an 11.5% Job Growth by 2034
Current Employment
56,000
Projected
62,500
Growth Rate
+11.5%
New Positions
6,500
What's Driving Demand
The expected growth in the Certified Sex Therapist profession is largely due to a broader societal acceptance and understanding of the importance of mental and sexual health. Expanded healthcare coverage and a focus on holistic wellness further contribute to this positive trend.
The Certified Sex Therapist profession is projected to grow by 11.5% from 2024 to 2034, increasing employment from 56,100 to 62,500. This growth, driven by societal shifts towards mental health and relationship wellness, indicates a strengthening demand for professionals skilled in this area. The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the healthcare sector, particularly in diagnostics and administrative tasks, is reshaping the role of sex therapists. AI tools are expected to handle routine data analysis and client scheduling, allowing therapists to focus more on direct client interaction and complex cases. As the population ages, the demand for specialized therapeutic services, including sex therapy, is likely to increase. Policies expanding mental health coverage under Medicare and Medicaid could further drive employment in this field. For those considering becoming a Certified Sex Therapist, now is a strategic time to enter the field, especially if they are willing to leverage new technologies.
Long-Term Outlook
AI & Automation
low disruption riskAI poses a low risk to the core functions of sex therapists, who rely heavily on interpersonal skills and nuanced understanding of human behavior. However, adopting AI for administrative duties and preliminary data analysis can enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of therapy sessions.
Many of these AI integrations are already being implemented and will continue to evolve over the next decade.
Demographics
An aging population and greater life expectancy are increasing the demand for sex therapy services, as individuals seek to maintain aspects of their relationships and personal well-being throughout their lifespan.
Key factor: Aging population
Policy & Regulation
Government policies expanding mental health coverage under Medicare and Medicaid are likely to increase the accessibility and affordability of sex therapy services.
Industry Shifts
The shift towards telehealth and personalized care models is influencing the sex therapy field, offering therapists new ways to reach and treat clients.
Top Skills
Empathy
95/100Communication
92/100Problem-solving
90/100Bottom Line
Becoming a Certified Sex Therapist offers a stable and potentially lucrative career path, especially for those who adapt to AI advancements and policy changes.
State-by-State Variations
Requirements for becoming a Certified Sex Therapist vary significantly across states in the United States. These variations encompass educational backgrounds, clinical experience hours, and state-specific licensure exams.
Most Strict
Renewal Requirements
Certified Sex Therapists must renew their certification periodically to ensure continued competence and adherence to evolving best practices in the field. Renewal typically involves completing continuing education, paying a fee, and submitting documentation. Staying current is crucial for maintaining the quality of care provided to clients.
Renewal Period
every 2 years
Renewal Cost
$200
CE Hours
18 hours
CE Topics: Ethical practices in therapy, Recent developments in sexual health
Late renewal may incur additional fees and require extra continuing education credits.
Get Started
Ready to pursue Certified Sex Therapist? Find programs, connect with counselors, and explore your options.
Talk to a Counselor
Get personalized guidance on your certification path
Want to Talk to a Career Counselor?
Get personalized guidance on training programs, licensing requirements, and career opportunities.
Recommended Resources
Certified Sex Therapist Exam Prep Practice Test
Practice questions for the Certified Sex Therapist Exam exam.
Certified Sex Therapist Study Guide
Comprehensive study guide covering all Certified Sex Therapist exam topics.
Certified Sex Therapist Certification All-in-One
Everything you need to prepare for Certified Sex Therapist certification.
As an Amazon Associate, CredentialGuide earns from qualifying purchases.
Are You a Training Provider?
List your programs on CredentialGuide and connect with students actively researching training options in your area.