A Comprehensive Guide to Careers in Sexuality
Understanding the Realities, Opportunities, and Challenges of Working in Sex Education and Therapy
Picture this: PR packages filled with sex-positive products, vibrator discount codes, writing for Cosmopolitan, and talking about sex on TikTok. Being a sex ed pro seems like a glamorous career, right?
There’s no question about the allure of the sexuality field. In the age of social media it’s arguably even more enticing and accessible than ever before. But how exactly does someone make a career out of talking and teaching about sex?
With back-to-school season in full swing, this seems like the perfect time to break it down for you. Given how comprehensive this guide is, I’ve included a table of contents for easier navigation:
Exploring Career Paths in Sex Education
Here’s a secret: There’s no one roadmap on entering this field. The more professionals you chat with, the more you’ll realize how our backgrounds and journeys differ. I’m going to give you a broad overview of common paths, programs, and how to determine which one is right for you.
Reproductive Health
Although the reproductive health field isn’t strictly part of the sexuality field, it’s crucial to include here because the field desperately needs more professionals attuned to sex ed. Despite extensive training in biology and medicine, many healthcare providers receive less than ten hours of sexuality training in their programs.
This path is ideal for those who see their career at the intersection of sexuality and medicine, such as OB/GYNs, nurses, and reproductive endocrinologists, just to name a few. If you’re seeking hands-on experience in the medical field, know that additional training in sexuality — whether through continuing education credits or a certificate — will greatly enhance your ability to support your patients.
Dr. Heather Irobunda and Dr. Jennifer Lincoln are two of my favorite OB/GYNs to follow on Instagram!
Sex Therapy
If you want to go the therapy route, you’ll at least need a counseling degree of some kind, like Social Work, Psychology, or Marriage and Family Therapy. While any of these degrees can lend themselves to couples and sex therapy work, here are a few considerations:
Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT): In graduate sex therapy programs, you’ll learn basic skills of couples therapy, but you may not get as much hands-on experience in your internship depending on the program or degree.
The American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (AAMFT), states that, “MFTs are mental health professionals trained in psychotherapy and family systems, and licensed to diagnose and treat mental and emotional disorders within the context of marriage, couples and family systems.” While you’ll likely learn about these topics in other counseling programs, the MFT’s focus is highly specified.
Psychology: Psychology is the science of the mind and behavior. The American Psychological Association (APA), outlines specific career paths for those at all-levels of this degree, including how to determine which graduate degree would be best-suited for you.
Social Work: Social Work is often considered the most versatile degree, offering strong income potential due to its applicability at micro, mezzo, and macro levels. The core values of social work are rooted in social justice, as outlined by the National Association of Social Workers (NASW).
If you pursue one of these degrees, or another counseling degree, you’ll still need to complete additional clinical hours in order to obtain licensure to go private practice. Check out your state’s licensing pages for more details on specific requirements you’d need to fulfill.
Sex Education
Here’s a surprise for you: Some sex educators receive masters-level training, but academia isn’t a necessity for this path. Before you spend beaucoup bucks attending graduate school, take time to research reputable certificate programs and do a benefits and cost analysis (more on this below).
Unexpected Roles in Sex Education
Sex education shows up in so many fields, even if it’s not in the job title. You can mix sexuality with almost any career, it just depends on your goals, interests, and strengths. Here are a few examples of sex ed professionals that you may not typically think of:
Administrative Assistants: Sexuality professionals need virtual assistants, too! Having someone who understands the terminology, field, and sensitivities can be helpful in organizing your calendar and navigating the challenges of social media. Check out Admin by Amari for a great example oh how you can make this your niche.
Coaching: There can be a fine line between coaches and therapists, and what’s required to get there. Coaches also provide education and typically work with clients in achieving specific goals. Erica Smith, MEd, a sex educator who created the Purity Culture Dropout™ program, and Melissa A. Fabello, PhD, who specializes in politicized relationship coaching, are great examples sexuality coaches. Generally, a reputable coach will have advanced knowledge in the field of sexuality (be it a graduate degree or certificate program), and/or advanced coaching expertise from a reputable agency, like the International Coaching Federation.
Policy Professionals: If you’re considering a career in the sexuality field, you certainly know the importance of reproductive health policies and how they impact comprehensive sex education. The Center for Reproductive Rights, Guttmacher Institute, and SIECUS, are great organizations to familiarize yourself with this work and the potential for a career in sexual and reproductive health policy. Whether that’s through law, policy, or social work.
Writers: You’ll note that some writers live between sex and relationship bylines. This requires added awareness, sensitivity, and education to understand appropriate terms, underrepresented voices, and all-around advocacy. Tatyannah King, MSW, MEd, is an example of an educator building her writing portfolio in Cosmopolitan.
Again, there’s no one way to be a sexuality professional. There are so many paths to get there, and yours eagerly awaits your arrival.
The Nitty Gritty: Your Guide to Getting Started
So you know what you need to do, but don’t know how to do it, or where to even start searching. Is grad school worth it? What about reputable certificate programs? How do I even know what’s legit? Here’s a basic overview of what you need to know, from undergrad through graduate school.
Is Academia Right for You?
If you’re looking for a career in therapy, research, or the medical field, academia will be part of your journey. But, if your career goals are more aligned with other areas, academia may not be necessary, and could lead to increased amounts of student debt (yikes).
Undergraduate Degrees that Complement Sex Ed
Most career paths in the sexuality field will require at least a college degree. The advantage of this field is its versatility, as it’s compatible with a wide range of undergraduate majors, even those that might initially seem unrelated.
For example, if you majored in marketing during college and want to pivot to sexuality, those skills still translate into how you market yourself to potential clients. Know you’re not doomed if you selected an undergraduate major that doesn’t seem to match your long-term goals or isn’t easily related to the field of sexuality.
If you’re still undecided on a major, some potential fields that could be a good match for budding sexuality professionals include:
Biology
Gender and Sexuality Studies
Health Communication, Public Health
Nursing
Psychology
Public Policy
Social Work
Sociology
Again, this isn’t an exhaustive list — don’t freak out if your current or intended major isn’t on here.
Grad School and Beyond
While many graduate schools offer counseling degrees, not every one offers training in sex education or therapy. Widener University, located just outside of Philadelphia, is where I and many of your other favorite Instagram sex educators and therapists attended. It’s unique as it houses one of the only doctoral programs in human sexuality in the United States. It is also home to many dual degree programs in counseling, education, and other professional tracks. The California Institute of Integral Studies houses another reputable doctoral program in human sexuality.
While these programs allow you to meet some AASECT (American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists) certification requirements upon completion, it’s not included. Meaning you will still have to apply for AASECT certification down the road. Something else to be mindful of as you’re considering your path forward.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind if you’re trying to figure out if graduate school is right for you:
Evaluate Your Career Goals: If you’re seeking a career in therapy, an advanced degree is required. Take time to reflect on your preferred focus area, and explore the positions offered by AAMFT, APA, and NASW, which outline the ethics and guidelines you’d adhere to as a professional. Do these professional paths align with your personal and professional values?
Financial Considerations:
Program Costs: Don’t just consider the cost of one semester — look at the full program’s price tag. Are you able to pay for some semesters upfront, or will you need loans for the entire duration of the program? Before taking out a loan, brush up on basic financial education to understand the long-term impact.
Book Recommendations: *Rich AF: The Winning Money Mindset That Will Change Your Life and Financial Feminist really helped build my financial literacy this year. I really wish I had this knowledge before taking out my loans. *I’ll make a small commission if you choose to purchase using these links
Hidden Costs: Beyond tuition, don’t forget to factor in hidden costs. Will you need to travel out-of-state for classes, or even relocate? For internships, consider commuting costs like gas or transportation fees, which can add up quickly, too.
Employment: Will you need to work while in school? If so, make sure the program offers the flexibility to balance work and academics. It may also be beneficial to chat with your employer and ask if they offer educational support for related coursework.
Mental Health Considerations: Graduate school can be exciting, but also mentally draining. Burnout is common, so it’s best to prepare in advance. Think about how you’ll maintain self-care during school and what coping strategies you can lean to during more stressful times. Identify your support systems, create boundaries to protect your time, and make space for joy and rest.
Look Beyond Marketing: While a school’s website will highlight its best features, it’s important to dig deeper than marketing materials. Once you have a better sense of what you’re hoping to achieve through grad school, ask faculty about available internships that align with your career goals. Approach this process like you’re “dating” the school — be intentional with your questions.
Consider Non-Degree Options: If you’re unsure about grad school, or something about it doesn’t feel quite right for you, explore certificate programs or specializations. These options can provide the skills you need without the time or financial commitment of a graduate degree.
Certificate Programs
Many universities have sexuality-related certificates that you can pursue in addition to your degree. If AASECT certification is important to you, any program through AASECT, or one that is AASECT certified is a good rule of thumb to follow. The Sexual Health Alliance (SHA) has a number of programs that meet AASECT requirements and are approved for continuing education credits.
Jumpstart Your Career: How to Get Involved
After reading this guide, you may feel more at-ease, or you could feel overwhelmed and uncertain about which path is right. If you’re eager to get involved in the sex education field ASAP, here’s my advice:
Reach Out to People with Your Dream Career: Connect with professionals by scheduling coffee chats to learn about their journey— including the steps they took to get there and any insights they wish they had known. If you’re reaching out via social media, check if they accept DMs, as many prefer email. Offering to buy them a virtual coffee in exchange for their time is always appreciated.
Get Involved: Even though you don’t know exactly where you want to land in your sexuality career, you can get involved sooner rather than later. Look up volunteering opportunities near you, or even applicable jobs in organizations you love, like Planned Parenthood. Even if it’s not your ~dream job~ having these experiences on your resume can only help your career and show your interest and growing dedication to the field.
Social Media and Writing: Before I had a professional social media presence, I had a blog. Even though I didn’t have a long list of subscribers, my blog allowed me to demonstrate my writing and passion. It’s what I pointed to when I submitted my first pitches, and what inspired me to start my professional Instagram. Writing can also be a valuable source of inspiration, helping you refine your career goals.
If you’ve read my essay on Instagram censorship, you know that it’s increasingly challenging for sexuality professionals to navigate online platforms. However, social media plays a crucial role in building connections with people in the field, brands, and followers. Even if your blog doesn’t have many readers, sharing your content on social media can help you gain traction, experience, and exposure.
While these steps can help you start your journey in sex education, it's important to remember that everyone's path is unique. My own journey into this field was filled with both triumphs and challenges, and I believe sharing it might offer you valuable insights and a realistic perspective on what to expect.
My Path to the Sexuality Field
My resume paints a picture of academic success: an undergraduate degree in Gender and Sexuality Studies, closely followed by an MSW and MEd in Human Sexuality Studies from Widener’s renowned sex therapy program. But what it doesn’t reflect are the struggles, uncertainties, and hard-earned wisdom I gained along the way.
Widener’s program is undeniably attractive, seemingly offering a fast-track to achieving your sexuality-related goals and dreams. For many, it does exactly that. But as the saying goes, all that glitters is not gold, especially when it comes with a hefty price tag of student debt.
It’s unrealistic to expect 18-year-olds to know exactly what they want to do for the rest of their lives. At 31, my career vision is still evolving. If you’re unsure about your path, know that it’s okay to take your time and adjust your plans as needed. Starting at a community college or taking time off between undergraduate and more advanced academic pursuits can be financially and personally beneficial.
That said, I don’t regret my undergraduate or graduate experiences. They were invaluable opportunities for deeper learning, self-discovery, and professional growth. We often focus solely on curriculum content, but our academic experiences also offer profound introspection into ourselves and our career goals.