The Canadian Sex Research Forum grew out of conversations that began in 1969 between a small group of individuals at the University of Calgary. The intention of forming the group was to bring professionals working in the area of human sexuality in Canada together to form a multidisciplinary organization. Members would be committed to the advancement of sexual science and find common ground through their shared involvement in sex counseling or therapy, sex education, and/or sex research.

Conversation continued and the first official meeting took place in Calgary in 1972. In these early years, meetings alternated between Banff, Alberta and Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario.

The emphasis of CSRF meetings has always been to share ideas and information among colleagues. Small meetings sizes encourage collaborative discussions and knowledge exchange between members and provide unique opportunities for members to get to know each other well. CSRF is a supportive network of professionals working in a variety of areas related to human sexuality in Canada.

CSRF continues to meet in various locations across Canada, alternating among western, central, and eastern locations.