The Integrative Sex Therapy Institute (ISTI) is on the leading edge of modern psychotherapy with our brand new coursework leading to the Certified Sex & Couples Therapist certification. The Certified Sex and Couples Therapy (CSCT) curriculum provides forward-looking training that addresses the emerging field of integrative relational psychotherapy.
What is CSCT?
The Certified Sex and Couples Therapy (CSCT) curriculum provides cutting-edge training in sex therapy so that the student can become a practitioner with a proficient level of expertise to offer a complete integrative perspective to their clients.
In the respective fields of couple’s therapy and sex therapy, the average clinician may have had little if any training in both fields and none in alternative treatments, thereby creating a void in the available interventions and directives in their clinical toolbox. Even those trained in each area separately are seeking a means to unify their skill set. Given the relational nature of these disciplines, it is imperative for the contemporary practitioner to bring an integrative approach to best serve clients.
The CSCT program accomplishes this by assuring the mastery of well-established couples therapy techniques along with traditional sex therapy practices and then adds uniquely designed integrative courses. Upon completing this next phase of evolutionary training, clinicians and counselors will obtain the Certified Sex and Couples Therapist (CSCT) designation.
The Integrative Sex Therapy Institute is the only place that can offer the Certified Sex & Couples Therapy (CSCT) designation. International students are eligible. The CSCT program offers 109 hours of advanced training that includes sex therapy, relationship therapy, integrative therapy, and a unique integrative-focused SAR.
Check out CSCT by the Numbers – Hours and Cost
Benefits of earning your CSCT:
- Comprehensive modern training
- Flexible pathways with eLearn and In-Person training
- eLearn courses can help fast-track your certifications
- Transfer up to 30 hours of Couples Therapy training from approved programs*
- SAR available within the program
- Just 45 hours in addition to CST for dual certification
How do I enroll?
CSTIP by PESI – A Step Toward CSCT
Have you taken PESI’s Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional (CSTIP) course? You may have a shortcut to your CSCT. CSTIPs are uniquely eligible to apply to the ISTI program and pursue full certification as a Certified Sex and Couples Therapist (CSCT) through the Integrative Sex Therapy Institute. The CSTIP course transfers directly into ISTI as credit for 18 hours, an essential first step in coursework for your CSCT designation. You can also use your CSTIP to pursue certification with AASECT. For more information, download our FAQ.
How is Certified Sex and Couples Therapist (CSCT) by ISTI different than CST by AASECT?
The future of this field demands that clinical professionals integrate both sex therapy and relationship counseling in order to keep up with the challenges of contemporary practice. Integrative Sex and Couples Therapy is a new field of learning for all therapists that builds on sex therapy and relationship therapy and adds a third area: alternative forms of treatment that are designed specifically to meet the contemporary needs of today’s clients.
What are the learning standards for CSCT?
AASECT uses Core Knowledge Areas (CKAs) and for ISTI we use three main categories of knowledge to insure that your coursework provides the best education available. At ISTI your coursework will include Sexual Therapy, Couples Counseling and Integrative Therapy. You can find a detailed explanation of the standards here.
An ISTI Certified Sex and Couples Therapist (CSCT) is a licensed clinical mental health provider with a proficient level of expertise in both sexuality and relationship therapy as well as contemporary integrative alternative treatment interventions. A CSCT is trained to assess, diagnose, and provide in-depth relational and individual psychotherapy, as well as group and family therapy and has specialized in treating clients with sexual issues 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, infidelity, trauma, open relationships and polyamory, virtual reality and online treatment, alternative forms of relationships, LGBTQIA+ issues, kink, BDSM, polyamory, as well as disability, illness, stress management and special training in diversity and intercultural issues. CSCTs have had at least some training in contemporary treatment modalities including art therapy and/or psychedelic treatment. CSCTs are versed in countertransference and the self as therapist. CSCTs can provide integrative relationship therapy to couples and groups, and may with specialized additional training, offer intensive psychotherapy and retreats. CSCTs have completed a SAR and must renew their certification every two years.
How do I start Supervision?
Supervision is a foundational part of your training. You can learn about Dr. Nelson’s supervision for groups and individuals here, or join the wait list for supervision notices.
The mission of The Integrative Sex Therapy Institute (ISTI) is to provide cutting-edge courses with training by the top leaders in the field; to provide the relationship skills students need to be informed and compassionate sex and couples therapists or coaches who provide the inspiration, connection, and healing needed in the world today.