Advancing Sexual Wellness Through Professional Excellence
The Association of Counseling Sexology & Sexual Wellness (ACSSW) is the premier professional organization dedicated to promoting sexuality as a central aspect of human wellbeing through counseling, education, research, and advocacy.
Wellness
Evidence-based approaches to sexual health
Growth
Professional development & CE opportunities
Community
Connect with sexuality counseling professionals
ACSSW Vision
ACSSW promotes sexuality as a central aspect of being human, embracing the intersection of interpersonal and intrapersonal influences on sexual expression and identities. We champion inclusivity across age, race, ethnicity, religion, sex, gender and gender expression, physical and mental health and abilities, and socioeconomic status.
News & Announcements
The latest updates and opportunities from across the organization.
Annual Members Meeting
Our Annual Members Meeting reviewed the past year’s milestones and outlined the organization’s priorities for the year ahead.
View the recap →2026–2027 Emerging Leaders
Selection is underway for the next cohort of the Dr. Mark Pope Emerging Leaders Program, supporting emerging sexuality counseling professionals.
About the program →Treasurer-Elect Nominations
Nominations were invited for a new Treasurer-Elect to join the ACSSW Board of Directors beginning July 2026.
Upcoming Events
Live webinars and continuing-education opportunities.
What is Sexuality Counseling?
A professional relationship that empowers diverse individuals, families, and groups to:
Increase Awareness
Help clients increase comfort and awareness of their sexuality and sexual experiences through evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Validate Experiences
Validate sexuality as a core aspect of the human experience, actively included throughout the counseling process based on client needs.
Promote Wellness
Promote comprehensive sexual wellness as an integral component of overall health and wellbeing.
Empower Expression
Empower clients to express their sexuality with respect for their individual and others’ sexual rights.
Evidence-Based Education
Provide empirically-based education, guidance, and resources regarding sexual health concerns for diverse populations.
Support Navigation
Support clients as they navigate various influences on their sexuality in their journey toward overall wellness.
What is Sexual Wellness?
Sexual wellness is the unique, subjective experience of physical, emotional, mental, and social well-being in relation to sexuality—essential to overall wellness.
While sexual wellness can include the absence of disease, dysfunction, or infirmity, the holistic and subjective nature extends beyond physical health to include a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships.
Sexual Wellness Encompasses:
- Pleasurable and safe sensual experiences
- Freedom from coercion and discrimination
- Respect for sexual rights of all persons
- Diversity in expression and influences
- Integration with overall health and wellbeing
Member Benefits
Belong to a community shaping the future of the field.
Free CE Credits
Monthly webinars with continuing education credits.
Journal Access
Full access to JCSSW publications and research.
Networking
Connect with sexuality counseling professionals.
Certification
Path to specialized certification.
Ready to Join ACSSW?
Become part of the professional community advancing sexual wellness in counseling.
Become a Member