Who We Are

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Our Story

Founded in 1967, the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT) is a not-for-profit, interdisciplinary professional organization committed to setting the highest standards in sexual health. For more than five decades, AASECT has been recognized as the leading authority for professional education, training, and ethical practice in the field.

Today, AASECT continues to shape the future of sexual health by supporting practitioners, advancing research, and advocating for evidence-based, inclusive approaches to sexuality and relationship wellbeing.

Who We Are

AASECT is a multidisciplinary community of professionals dedicated to advancing the understanding of human sexuality and promoting healthy sexual behavior. Our members include:

  • Sexuality educators, counselors, and sex therapists
  • Physicians, nurses, and allied health providers
  • Psychologists, social workers, mental health clinicians, and marriage and family therapists
  • Clergy and faith-based leaders
  • Physical therapists and somatic professionals
  • Lawyers, sociologists, and researchers
  • Family-planning specialists
  • Students and emerging professionals preparing for careers in sexuality fields

What unites us is a shared commitment to rigorous standards, lifelong learning, and the belief that sexuality is a vital part of human wellbeing.

Our Mission

AASECT is devoted to the promotion of sexual health by the development and advancement of the fields of sexual therapy, counseling, and education. AASECT's mission is the advancement of the highest standards of professional practice for educators, counselors and therapists.

Our Vision of Sexual Health

AASECT affirms the fundamental value of sexuality as an inherent, essential, and beneficial dimension of being human. AASECT accepts as its mission the advancement of the highest standards of professional practice for educators, counselors and therapists.

In general, AASECT opposes all psychological, social, cultural, legislative, and governmental forces that would restrict, curtail or interfere with the fundamental values of sexual health and sexual freedom that we espouse. AASECT also opposes all abuses of sexuality including, but not limited to, harassment, intimidation, coercion, prejudice, and the infringement of any individual's sexual and civil rights. Visit the AASECT Advocacy page to read our eight statements of value and vision.

Leadership

AASECT is guided by a dedicated volunteer Board of Directors who bring their expertise, passion, and commitment to advancing the organization’s mission and supporting the profession.


Meet the AASECT Board of Directors

AASECT Past Presidents (PDF)

Administrative Staff

Our staff team ensures strong operational support, member services, and organizational continuity. Their work enables AASECT’s mission and programs to thrive.


Meet the AASECT Team

Organizational Information


Bylaws

Financial Disclosures