The ISW Program
For over 20 years, the Institute for Sexual Wholeness has served mental health professionals, counseling students, pastors, and other health professionals by offering high-quality sex therapy training informed by medical and psychological research and Christian faith. Our faculty—experienced sex therapists, researchers, medical professionals, authors, and speakers—continue to provide instruction distinguished by clinical depth, faith integration, and practical wisdom.
Over the past few years, we have sought and listened to student and faculty feedback. Together, we have crafted an improved program structure and delivery model designed to enhance accessibility, reduce duplication, strengthen learning outcomes, and uphold our longstanding commitment to excellence in evidence-based, Christian-integrated sex therapy training.
To be counted toward ABCST Certification, each course will require attendance, assigned reading, a written assignment, and an exam.
Updated Delivery Format
To increase accessibility, flexibility, and depth of learning, all ISW courses (except the DTS Intro course) will now be delivered using a hybrid model:
Two full days of live, synchronous instruction (Friday and Saturday), available in person or online.
8–13 hours of asynchronous, on-demand video content completed within six weeks after the live weekend.
ISW courses will continue to be taught by a team. The ISW Faculty bring a breadth of perspectives, theoretical orientations, and clinical experience. Student feedback consistently emphasizes the value of learning in-person from our faculty and with other students in the classroom. The Friday/Saturday schedule preserves this rich experience while reducing hotel costs and minimizing time away from family, clinical practice, and ministry. (For those unable to attend the Friday/Saturday course in person, a live online class will be available).
Updated Program Structure
Beginning with our transition year in 2026, the program will be organized into three levels:
Level 1
Introduction to Human Sexuality & Sex Therapy
The prerequisite for all other ISW courses, this course offers an overview of: a brief history of sexology, reproductive anatomy/physiology, sexual development, sexual response, sexual dysfunctions, basic interventions for common sexual problems, sexual identity, gender identity, sexual trauma, typical and atypical sexual behavior, and compulsive sexuality.
Informed by current research and theory in sexology, students will explore and define a biblical and practical theology of sex.
Level 2
Clinical Protocols for Sex Therapy
Prerequisite:
Introduction to Human Sexuality and Sex Therapy
This course focuses on the assessment and diagnosis of sexual problems and sexual dysfunctions, and emphasizes the standard treatment protocols for desire, arousal, orgasmic disorders, and sexual pain. Students will also study approaches to address sexual desire discrepancy. Discussion will include recent and historical uses of Sensate Focus exercises.
Level 3
Medically Informed Sex Therapy
Prerequisites:
Introduction to Human Sexuality and Sex Therapy
Clinical Protocols for Sex Therapy
This course examines how medically related concerns shape the practice of sex therapy and guides therapists in adjusting treatment protocols for clients experiencing sexual problems related to: medications, chronic illness, psychiatric disorders, changes in sexual functioning across the lifespan, infertility, physical disability, and neurodiversity.
The course also provides recommendations and strategies for building effective collaborative relationships with other medical professionals.
Trauma Informed Sex Therapy
Prerequisites:
Introduction to Human Sexuality and Sex Therapy
Clinical Protocols for Sex Therapy
This course explores current approaches to assessing and treating individuals with a history of sexual trauma and abuse within the context of sex therapy. It introduces additional protocol facets and highlights adjustments to standard sex therapy practices. The course also examines common trauma topics, including complex trauma, PTSD, rape, incest, and dissociation. Special attention is given to recognizing and treating the effects of trauma on couple relationships.
Sexual Identity and Gender Identity Informed Sex Therapy
Prerequisites:
Introduction to Human Sexuality and Sex Therapy
Clinical Protocols for Sex Therapy
This course focuses on equipping clinicians to provide respectful, culturally competent therapy to people who experience conflict between their sexual identity and religious beliefs, as well as those facing concerns related to gender identity. Instruction covers the theological, biological, and sociocultural perspectives on sexual orientation, sexual identity, and gender identity. The curriculum emphasizes assessment and intervention skills, including the construction and use of Advanced Informed Consent in the evaluation and treatment of individuals and couples.
In addition, the course examines recent research and therapeutic approaches for therapy with mixed-orientation couples.
Completing the ISW program will fulfill 135 educational hours toward ABCST Certification, allowing applicants to choose 15 hours of electives from ABCST and other approved providers. For those in the process of working towards ABCST Certification, we will facilitate a smooth transition to our new program structure. Contact the Help Desk for more information.
Alumni are encouraged to return and audit previously completed courses for Continuing Education credit.
Calendar
ISW courses will open for registration 2-3 months prior to scheduled dates.
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