IAPST Inducts Its First Fellows
- IAPST
- Jun 3
- 3 min read
At this year’s International Symposium on Sex Therapy, held in Hvar, Croatia, the International Association of Psychosexual Therapists (IAPST) proudly inducted its first class of Fellows—a distinguished honor recognizing outstanding and enduring contributions to the field of psychosexual therapy.
Fellowship in IAPST represents more than a professional title. It is a symbol of clinical excellence, scholarly impact, and visionary leadership. To be eligible, individuals must hold a doctoral degree, be certified as a Psychosexual Therapist, and have a minimum of five years of post-doctoral experience. However, it is their profound influence on the profession—through innovation, advocacy, mentorship, and thought leadership—that truly distinguishes our Fellows.
We are honored to present our inaugural Fellows and celebrate their remarkable achievements:
🏅 Dr. Laurie Betito
With over 30 years in private practice, Dr. Laurie Betito has become a household name in public sex education. Known for her long-running Montreal radio show Passion, she has offered inclusive, evidence-based advice to thousands of listeners. A frequent contributor to media and author of The Sex Bible for People Over 50, she currently serves as Director of the Pornhub Sexual Wellness Center, promoting accessible sexual health education on a global scale.
Reflecting on her induction, Dr. Betito shared:
“Shocked, I said ‘Who are they talking about?’ I was very honored to be recognized for the work… I was speechless about it, frankly. I just want to say thank you to the organization for this.”
🏅 Dr. Wafaa Eltantawy
A long-time leader within the UK’s National Health Service, Dr. Wafaa Eltantawy has spent the past 18 years directing one of London’s foremost psychosexual therapy clinics. Her commitment to evidence-based care and equitable access has improved the lives of countless patients. A Fellow of the Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare and current Vice President of IAPST, Dr. Eltantawy exemplifies professional excellence and service.
Upon receiving the award, she said:
“Oh my God, I didn’t expect that at all. I was shocked and surprised—but I was honored and pleased to be recognized by an international organization. It’s a very valuable recognition for me. I couldn’t believe it when I heard my name.”
🏅 Dr. Mark A. Yarhouse
A leading scholar at the intersection of sexual identity, gender, and religious faith, Dr. Mark A. Yarhouse is known for his clinical insight and academic contributions to culturally responsive care. He holds the Dr. Arthur P. Rech and Mrs. Jean May Rech Professorship at Wheaton College and directs the Sexual & Gender Identity Institute, where he continues to shape dialogue and practice in this nuanced area of psychosexual therapy.
Dr. Yarhouse commented:
“Definitely surprised. I work in an area that’s often misunderstood—it’s pretty nuanced—and that’s not the kind of work that usually gets recognized in this way. It was delightful.”
These three extraordinary individuals have helped define and elevate the field of psychosexual therapy. Through their clinical work, teaching, writing, and leadership, they have expanded what is possible for therapists and clients alike.
We thank and congratulate Dr. Laurie Betito, Dr. Wafaa Eltantawy, and Dr. Mark A. Yarhouse for their enduring impact and their continued commitment to advancing the mission and values of IAPST.
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