There are three levels of Clinical Certification which can be defined as follows:
1. A Student level is for someone enrolled in a graduate program actively pursuing education and training to use in sexual addiction counseling. It is understood that during the course of their education they will meet the education requirements for clinical certification.
2. An Intern level certification is for someone who has completed their educational requirements and is in the supervision process for clinical certification.
3. Full Clinical Certification – Certified Clinical Sexual Addiction Specialist (CCSAS)
There are three ways to obtain this certification.
Educational Requirements
1. If you are a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist (CSAT) with Dr. Patrick Carnes, fill out the appropriate application and sign the statement of faith. Enclose all items on the application form checklist.
2. Complete two courses; Understanding and Treating Sexual Addiction and Sexually Addicted Families. These courses are taught through the Cornerstone Professional Training Institute at different locations around the U.S. and Canada. For more information go to www.cornerstonetraining.org.
3. Complete 125 hours of approved education in the following core areas: sexual addiction counseling and spouses/partners of addicts counseling, general addiction treatment, theology of sexuality, and trauma treatment. At least half of the educational requirements must be met utilizing the teaching and training of approved instructors. These hours can be met through documentation of continuing education, graduate courses, and other approved training opportunities. To clarify any questions regarding approved educational requirements contact us at info@sexaddictioncertification.org or at 770-457-3089.
Clinical Experience for CCSAS
The applicant must obtain and document 125 hours of clinical experience in the field of sexual addiction and/or co-addiction counseling. This can be done in individual, marital, family, or group therapy in which the main focus is treating sexual addiction and/or co-addiction.
The applicant must document 30 hours of supervision with an approved supervisor. A list of supervisors is available on our web site. Ten hours must be face-to-face supervision.
Supervision opportunities for face-to-face supervision are frequently provided in intensive formats where you can come to a supervisor and do most of these hours in one setting. Supervision opportunities are frequently offered around the country as well. Check the web site for supervision and training opportunities. Face-to-face supervision can also take place via webcam with proper equipment.
Other supervision can take place via telephone conferencing. If you believe that there is a qualified supervisor who is not on our list, mail a letter to AACCSAS with the supervisor application form to 2299 Perimeter Park Drive, Suite 120, Atlanta, GA 30341 and include a copy of the prospective supervisor’s vitae, experience, and contact information.
Clinical Application Form for CCSAS
You will be notified of the status within 30 days of receipt of these materials. Following completion of education, clinical, and supervision requirements, the applicant will fill out the appropriate application which can be downloaded from the website.