Moving Families Forward
Training
One of most highly regarded training facilities for family therapists in the United States.Therapy
We deliver couple and family therapy services for families of all backgrounds, at all stages of life.Research
Ackerman's clinical research projects & centers respond to the changing needs of families.Helping Families Thrive
Founded in 1960, the Ackerman Institute for the Family is one of the premier institutions for family therapy and one of the best-known and most highly regarded training facilities for couple and family therapists in the United States. The Institute serves families from all walks of life at all stages of family life.
We offer clinical services and professional training both online and in-person at our New York City office.


This 30-week introductory course is for those who wish to learn about family systems theory and technique. This course provides the foundation for more advanced training in family therapy. Learn more…
This 30-week course offers the opportunity for hands-on supervision. Trainees participate as part of a consultation team that evaluates and plans treatment. Learn more…

Workshops
Ackerman’s online workshops are interactive, easy to attend, and provide top-tier training from innovative and diverse leaders in the field of family and couple therapy.

For Agencies and Organizations
We offer trainings for mental health professionals in agencies, clinics, private group practices, schools, hospitals, and community-based organizations.
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Introduction to Sex Therapy
- September 27, 2023 5:00 pm - December 6, 2023 8:15 pm
The Ackerman Institute’s Introduction to Sex Therapy is an introductory course designed to provide foundational knowledge of sex therapy training. This 30-hour online course provides the fundamentals of AASECT certification and professional code of conduct.
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Intimacy and Sexuality in Couples
- January 3, 2024 5:00 pm - March 6, 2024 8:15 pm
Intimacy and Sexuality in Couples is a 30-hour online sex therapy training course for mental health professionals. AASECT continuing education hours are available.
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Systemic Sex Therapy
- March 27, 2024 5:00 pm - May 29, 2024 8:15 pm
Ackerman’s Systemic Sex Therapy course will focus on advanced topics in sex therapy assessment and treatment. The comprehensive systemic framework of the Ackerman Relational Approach will be used in focusing on advanced topics in sex therapy assessment and treatment.
2023 Sandy Chernick Scholarship Award of Excellence
Congratulations to the 2023 winner of the Sandy Chernick Award of Excellence, Priya Bhanderi! Priya was nominated for demonstrating the humanity, skill, and exemplifying qualities we seek in an Ackerman-trained family therapist.
Thank You for Celebrating Allyship, Advocacy, and Affirmation with The Gender & Family Project
Thank you for being part of the Ackerman Institute’s Gender & Family Project Benefit! It was truly a night to remember, as we came together to celebrate Allyship, Advocacy, and Affirmation, in support of the Gender & Family Project’s work to empower youth, families, and communities with gender affirmative services, therapy, training, and research.
Apply Now: Free Clinical Training with Ackerman’s Gender & Family Project: Family Engagement and Acceptance Training (FEAT) 2023-2024
The Ackerman Institute’s Gender & Family Project (GFP), The NYC Unity Project, and the Administration for Children Services (ACS) have joined forces to increase NYC’s capacity for family engagement and acceptance for TGNC youth. GFP is recruiting up to 6 NYC-based LGBTQ clinicians for the Family Engagement and Acceptance Training (FEAT).
Please join us on Monday, October 23, 2023, for the Ackerman Institute for the Family’s Moving Families Forward Gala. Together, we will celebrate our critical work helping families in need and training clinicians in family therapy.
Created in 1992, Ackerman Institute’s Social Work & Diversity Program has trained more than 100 therapists of color. The program is partnered with with the Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College, the NYU Silver School of Social Work and the Columbia School of Social Work.
Graduates of the program are working locally and nationally in community agencies, hospitals and academic institutions.
