History
Our Journey Through Time
1987 - Inception
The National Council on Sexual Addiction (NCSA) was founded in 1987 by Dr. Patrick Carnes, Richard Santorini, and Ed Armstrong.
1990's - Name Change
The name was changed to the National Council on Sexual Addiction and Compulsivity (NCSAC).
1994 - Journal
The scholarly journal Sexual Addiction & Compulsivity: The Journal of Treatment and Prevention was established in 1994 and made available to SASH members.
2001 - Incorporation
NCSAC was incorporated under the laws of the State of Georgia in January, 2001.
2004 - Transformation
The name changed to the Society for the Advancement of Sexual Health (SASH). "This historic move represented a vital conceptual shift away from the inherent limitations of a problem-focused approach in favor of a health-based focus that transcends theoretical constraints." (Bill Herring, 2014).
2012- Growth
SASH reached an all time high of over 600 members. Starting in 2013, SASH shifted their policy and position statements away from the somewhat controversial topic of sex addiction, adopting a broader definition of problematic sexual behavior. The organization continued to provide training and resources to their members to keep abreast of changes in the research and evidence.
2015 - Leadership
Mary Deitch was named President in 2015 and served for 4 Years. In 2017, Leah Briick stepped into the role of Executive Director and served for 8 years. Dr. Matthew Hedelius was made President in 2019 and served for 6 years.
2021 - Advancement
The scholarly journal launched in 1994 published by Taylor & Francis was renamed Sexual Health & Compulsivity.
2024 - Revitalization
Gina Kaye was named Executive Director, and Dr. Laney Knowlton assumed the role of President, continuing SASH's legacy of leadership and dedication to advancing sexual health.