Hello AASECT Members,

I want to shine a spotlight on a fantastic opportunity for you to deepen your engagement and connect with like-minded members throughout the year.

Introducing AASECT Special Interest Groups (SIGs)!

AASECT SIGs are designed to bring together individuals who share a passion or specific interest in various areas related to sexual health and education. These groups provide an excellent platform for networking, learning, and sharing experiences in a more focused and intimate setting.

Each SIG is unique and offers a space for engaging discussions, learning opportunities, and collaboration with fellow professionals who share your interests. Let me introduce you to some of our SIGs and their leaders:

Alternative (Alt.) Sex
SIG Leader: Lori Michels, LMFT, CST, S-PSB

Book Club
SIG Leader: Steve Ratcliff

AASECT Gender Diverse Members
SIG Leader: Phoenix Mandel, CSE

MAP (Minor Attracted Persons)
SIG Leaders: Jessica VerBout, M.A., LMFT, CST & Kristin Spooner, LICSW, CST

Medical Sexology
SIG Leader: Daniel Rosen, LCSW-R, CST, CSTS

Military and Sexuality
SIG Leaders: Matthew Volker, LMHC, NCC, and Stephanie Green, LCSW

Psychedelics and Sexuality
SIG Leader: Renée D. Burwell, LCSW, CSTS, CSE

Sexuality & Aging
SIG Leader: Melanie Davis, PhD, CSC, CSE, CSE-S

Sexuality Educators
SIG Leader: Margo Maes

Sexuality & Disability Justice
SIG Leader: Laura Wolford, PhD, MS CCC-SLP, CSE

Sexuality & Religion
SIG Leader: Caleb Jacobson, PsyD, PhD

Somatic Sexuality Professional
SIG Leaders: Brian Gibney and Michelle Renee

Student
SIG Leader: Mystkue Woods

Tantra
SIG Leader: Sally Valentine, PhD, LCSW, CST

People of Color
SIG Leader: Mariotta Gary-Smith, MPH, CSE

To join a SIG and take advantage of the enriching experiences they offer, please log in to the AASECT Hub and select Special Interest Groups (SIGs) under the Resources section. Here you’ll find full descriptions of each group and contact information to reach out to the respective SIG Leader. They will guide you through the process and provide further information about their group’s activities and objectives.

As we continue to grow and evolve as an organization, our SIGs play a crucial role in fostering connections, knowledge sharing, and advocacy within the field of sexual health and education. I encourage you to explore these exciting opportunities, enhance your involvement, and make meaningful contributions to our community.

Thank you for being a part of AASECT. I look forward to seeing you actively engage with our Special Interest Groups!

Warm regards,

Colby (they/them)
Editor, CE News