We train therapists and educators to competently counsel, speak, and write about Sexuality and Sex Therapy
ISW has developed 150+ clock hours of graduate-level training in sexuality and sex therapy from a Christian perspective, offered at several locations in partnership with universities and seminaries. Courses are equivalent to 28-40 hours (or 2-3 graduate semester hours in accordance with the partner school) and depending on location are offered in intensive formats taught Friday through Sunday or Monday through Friday.
All courses require professional reading and assignments, attendance, and a final exam.
To complete the program, students must pass 5 ISW courses (1 Introductory Course, 3 Intermediate Courses, and 1 Advanced Course from a selection of 4). Participants and students can complete the entire program within one year, though many of our students pace the program to meet their professional and personal goals and needs.
Our program was designed to prepare students for Sex Therapy Certification through the American Board of Christian Sex Therapists, but you do not need to be an ABCST member (or even be pursuing Sex Therapy Certification) to enroll. However, while some courses are appropriate for physicians, pastors, other allied professionals, and occasionally lay caregivers, our courses are developed with the assumption that the student has already received at least basic training in therapy skills and theoretical models.
Classes will open for registration 2-3 months before scheduled intensive.
Standard Enrollment: $800.00*
CE Enrollment (22 CEUs): $800.00*
Academic Credit: Varies by partner school
*Listed cost is per EACH course. Does not include textbooks
Advanced Sex Therapy: Trauma and Abuse
Prerequisites:
Introduction to Human Sexuality & Sex Therapy
Intermediate Medical & Trauma Issues
Advanced Sex Therapy: Dysfunctions
Prerequisites:
Introduction to Human Sexuality & Sex Therapy
Intermediate Sex Therapy Protocols
Currently taught by Dr. Clifford and Joyce Penner, this advanced course takes an in-depth look at treatment for sexual dysfunctions. Benefitting from the Faculty’s 85+ years of combined experience as sex therapists and trainers, students will develop an assessment tool for use in their therapy sessions. Case studies are presented, and treatment goals and techniques fine-tuned by class discussion with these expert faculty.
This course counts toward ABCST certification:
30 hours toward the 150 Academic hour requirement
2 hours toward the 50 Consultation hour requirement
Advanced Sexual Identity and Gender Identity
Prerequisites:
Introduction to Human Sexuality & Sex Therapy
Intermediate Foundations of Sex Therapy
Currently taught by Dr. Mark Yarhouse and team, this advanced specialization course focuses on an intermediate and advanced understanding of the topics of sexual orientation, sexual identity, and gender identity. It considers theological, biological, and sociocultural perspectives on sexual orientation, sexual identity, and gender identity, as well as clinical and applied perspectives with a focus on assessment and intervention when clients present with concerns related to sexual or gender identity.
This course counts toward ABCST certification:
30 hours toward the 150 Academic hour requirement
2 hours toward the 50 Consultation hour requirement