LMFT Programs by State

There are 127 COAMFTE-accredited MFT programs as of August 2026.

You can view campus-based marriage and family therapy programs by selecting your state from the state links on this page. Our database is based on programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE), a leading accrediting body for marriage and family therapy education.

You can also read our comprehensive review of Online COAMFTE-accredited MFT programs. Click here if you are more interested in counseling programs by state.

The accredited programs in our database include master’s-level MFT programs, doctoral programs, and post-degree training options. Students specifically seeking online LMFT programs can use our dedicated guide to compare accredited options.

COAMFTE-Accredited MFT Programs by State

More than 30 states have at least one COAMFTE-accredited MFT program. California has the most, with 25 programs, followed by Texas with 11 and Illinois with six.

State	Programs	State	Programs
Alabama	2	Nebraska	1
California	25	Nevada	1
Colorado	4	New Hampshire	3
Connecticut	3	New York	5
Florida	5	North Carolina	3
Georgia	5	Ohio	3
Illinois	6	Oklahoma	2
Indiana	4	Oregon	2
Iowa	1	Pennsylvania	3
Kansas	4	Rhode Island	1
Kentucky	4	South Carolina	2
Louisiana	2	South Dakota	1
Maryland	1	Tennessee	2
Michigan	1	Texas	11
Minnesota	3	Utah	4
Mississippi	1	Virginia	1
Missouri	3	Washington	5
Wisconsin	3	Total	127

COAMFTE-Accredited MFT Programs by Format

As of August 2026, there are 127 COAMFTE-accredited marriage and family therapy programs in the United States, including 17 hybrid programs and 14 online programs.

Program format	Number of programs
On-campus	96
Hybrid	17
Online	14
Total	127

Last updated: August 2026

States not listed did not have a COAMFTE-accredited program in the August 2026 audit. Students in those states may still be able to enroll in an online program or attend a program in another state, but they should verify that the program meets the licensing requirements where they intend to practice.

On-campus programs require students to complete most or all coursework in person. Hybrid programs combine online coursework with scheduled in-person classes, residencies, or other campus-based requirements. Online programs deliver academic coursework remotely, although students may still need to complete supervised clinical training in person at an approved site.

Program format can affect scheduling, travel requirements, clinical placement options, and eligibility for licensure in a particular state. Prospective students should review each program’s delivery requirements and confirm that the curriculum meets the licensing standards where they plan to practice.

What Are LMFT Programs?

Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) programs prepare students to work therapeutically with individuals, couples, and families. Licensure-track programs emphasize how relationships and family systems can influence behavior, emotional well-being, and mental health.

Coursework commonly covers human development, family systems theory, systemic therapy approaches, assessment, ethics, legal issues, and methods for treating mental and emotional disorders within a relational context. Programs also include supervised clinical training that allows students to apply therapeutic skills in real-world settings.

Most students pursuing LMFT licensure complete a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy or a closely related field. COAMFTE also accredits doctoral programs and post-degree clinical training programs.

Graduating from an MFT program does not automatically result in licensure. Candidates must meet the requirements of the state or jurisdiction where they intend to practice, which commonly include supervised clinical experience and passage of a state-approved licensing examination.

Through academic and clinical preparation, MFT programs help students develop the communication, assessment, critical-thinking, and therapeutic skills needed to serve clients experiencing relationship difficulties, family conflict, and mental health concerns.

*Sponsored Counseling Programs

MFT Program Overview

MFT programs combine academic coursework with supervised clinical training to prepare students for work with individuals, couples, and families. Although requirements vary by institution and state, most licensure-track programs share several core features.

Curriculum

Coursework typically covers family systems theory, human development, assessment, treatment planning, ethics, legal standards, and therapeutic approaches for working with couples and families. Students may also study subjects such as trauma, substance use, multicultural counseling, sexuality, and child or adolescent development.

Admission and Education Requirements

Most master’s-level MFT programs require applicants to hold a bachelor’s degree. A degree in psychology, social work, counseling, or a related field may be helpful, but it is not always required. Some schools may also request prerequisite coursework, professional experience, recommendations, or a personal statement.

A master’s degree is the standard educational pathway toward LMFT licensure. Doctoral and post-degree clinical training programs are also available for students seeking advanced clinical, research, supervisory, or academic roles.

Program Length

Full-time master’s programs commonly take two to three years to complete. Part-time enrollment may extend that timeline. Program length can also depend on the number of required credits, the structure of clinical placements, and whether courses are offered year-round.

Clinical Training

Supervised clinical experience is a central part of MFT education. Students typically complete practicum or internship hours while working with clients under qualified supervision. Because clinical training often takes place in person, students in online and hybrid programs should confirm how placements are arranged in their area.

Cost

Program costs vary by institution, degree level, residency status, and delivery format. In addition to tuition and fees, students may need to budget for books, technology, travel, background checks, clinical supervision, professional liability insurance, and licensing-related expenses.

Length

Most MFT programs can be completed in 2-3 years of full-time study. Part-time options may extend the duration. Clinical requirements, which involve supervised practice, can also influence the overall length of the program.

Accreditation

Accreditation indicates that a program has been reviewed against established educational and clinical standards. COAMFTE is the primary specialized accreditor for marriage and family therapy programs. Attending a COAMFTE-accredited program may simplify the licensure process in some jurisdictions, but students should still verify the requirements of the state where they plan to practice.

Licensure Preparation

Graduating from an MFT program does not automatically confer licensure. Candidates generally must complete any required post-degree supervised experience, pass an approved examination, and meet additional state-specific requirements.

Career Preparation

MFT graduates may work in private practices, community agencies, healthcare organizations, schools, residential programs, or other behavioral health settings. Programs are designed to build skills in assessment, treatment planning, communication, ethical decision-making, and systemic therapy.

MFT Online Program Accreditation

Online MFT programs can offer greater flexibility for students who need to balance graduate study with work, family, or geographic constraints. However, prospective students should evaluate more than the convenience of online coursework. Accreditation, clinical placement requirements, residency expectations, and state licensure rules can all affect whether a program is a practical fit.

Why Accreditation Matters

Accreditation helps indicate that a program meets established standards for curriculum, faculty qualifications, clinical preparation, and student outcomes. For MFT students, accreditation can also play an important role in licensure eligibility, credit transfer, financial aid, and employer recognition.

COAMFTE is the primary specialized accreditor for marriage and family therapy education. Its accreditation process applies to on-campus, hybrid, and online programs, with each program expected to meet the same core academic and clinical standards.

Comparing Online, Hybrid, and On-Campus Programs

Online programs deliver most or all academic coursework remotely. Hybrid programs combine online learning with scheduled in-person classes, residencies, or other campus-based requirements. On-campus programs require students to complete most coursework in person.

The delivery format does not eliminate the need for supervised clinical experience. Even in a fully online program, students typically complete practicum or internship hours at an approved site in or near their local community.

Clinical Placement Support

Clinical placement is one of the most important factors to review when comparing online MFT programs. Some schools help students identify and secure approved training sites, while others place more responsibility on the student.

Prospective students should ask how placements are arranged, whether the program has existing partnerships in their state, who approves supervisors, and what happens if an appropriate site is not available nearby.

State Licensure Considerations

Licensure requirements vary by state, and completing an accredited online program does not automatically guarantee eligibility in every jurisdiction. Students should confirm that the program’s curriculum and clinical training requirements align with the rules of the state where they plan to practice.

This is especially important for students who enroll in a program based in another state or expect to move before becoming licensed.

Benefits of Online MFT Programs

For many students, online study can reduce the need to relocate or commute and may make it easier to remain employed while completing a degree. Online programs may also provide access to schools and specializations that are not available locally.

Although online study is not always less expensive, it may reduce costs associated with transportation, relocation, and campus attendance. Students comparing tuition and total program expenses can review our guide to affordable online MFT programs.

Students can often use digital libraries, virtual advising, online tutoring, discussion platforms, and remote career services. These resources can support academic progress and help students stay connected with faculty and classmates.

Questions to Ask Before Enrolling

Before choosing an online or hybrid MFT program, students should review:

• COAMFTE accreditation status
• In-person or residency requirements
• Clinical placement procedures
• State licensure compatibility
• Faculty access and student support
• Total tuition and additional fees
• Technology requirements
• Graduation and licensure outcomes

A program’s format should support the student’s schedule without creating avoidable barriers to clinical training or licensure.

Support Services for Online MFT Students

Strong student support can make a significant difference in an online MFT program, particularly when students are balancing coursework, clinical training, employment, and family responsibilities. The availability and quality of these services vary by school, so prospective students should review them before enrolling.

Academic Advising

Academic advisors help students choose courses, understand degree requirements, plan for clinical training, and stay on track for graduation. Advisors may also help students interpret program policies or address academic difficulties.

Clinical Placement Assistance

Because MFT students must complete supervised clinical training, placement support is especially important. Programs may help identify approved sites, review supervisors, explain documentation requirements, and coordinate agreements with local agencies.

Students should find out how much responsibility they will have for securing a placement and whether the school already works with sites in their area.

Technical and Learning Support

Online students need reliable access to course platforms, video conferencing tools, digital assignments, and other technology. Technical support should be available when students encounter login problems, software issues, or difficulties accessing course materials.

Tutoring, writing centers, and academic-skills support may also help students strengthen their research, writing, and study habits.

Library and Research Resources

Online students typically receive remote access to databases, journals, e-books, research guides, and interlibrary loan services. Some institutions also offer virtual appointments with librarians who can help locate sources or develop research strategies.

Career and Licensure Support

Career services may include résumé and cover letter assistance, interview preparation, job-search guidance, alumni networking, and access to employment listings.

Some programs also provide licensure guidance, such as information about state requirements, examination preparation, supervised experience, and application procedures. Students should still verify all requirements directly with the licensing board in the state where they plan to practice.

Counseling, Wellness, and Accessibility Services

Graduate training can be demanding, so access to counseling and wellness resources may be valuable. Schools may offer remote mental health services, wellness programs, crisis support, or referrals to outside providers.

Students with disabilities should also review the institution’s accommodation process and confirm that online courses, clinical requirements, and learning platforms are accessible.

Peer and Faculty Connection

Online learning can feel isolating without regular interaction. Discussion groups, student organizations, cohort activities, faculty office hours, and virtual networking events can help students build relationships and feel more connected to the program.

These services do not replace program quality, but they can improve the online learning experience and help students manage academic, clinical, and professional requirements more effectively.

How to Become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

Becoming a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist generally requires graduate education, supervised clinical experience, an approved licensing examination, and authorization from a state licensing board. Exact requirements vary by jurisdiction, so students should review the rules for the state where they plan to practice.

1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

The first step is earning a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Common areas of study include psychology, counseling, social work, human services, and family studies, although MFT graduate programs may accept applicants from other academic backgrounds.

Students exploring undergraduate options may find these guides useful:

• Online Bachelor’s Degree in Counseling
• Online Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology
• Affordable Online Social Work Degrees

Students should review graduate admission requirements early because some programs require prerequisite coursework in areas such as psychology, human development, research methods, or statistics.

2. Complete a Qualifying Graduate Program

Most LMFT candidates earn a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy or a closely related field that meets their state’s educational requirements. Students can begin by researching a marriage and family counseling school and comparing its curriculum, accreditation, clinical training, and licensure disclosures.

Graduate training typically combines coursework in systemic therapy, assessment, ethics, human development, and treatment methods with supervised clinical practice. Choosing a COAMFTE-accredited program may make it easier to demonstrate that the program meets established MFT education standards, but students should still confirm state-specific eligibility before enrolling.

Related graduate-program guides include:

• Online MFT Programs in California
• Online Master’s Programs in Counseling
• Online Master’s in Counseling with No GRE Requirement

3. Complete Supervised Clinical Training

MFT students typically begin clinical training through a practicum or internship during graduate school. After graduation, many jurisdictions require additional supervised professional experience before candidates qualify for independent licensure.

Rules may specify:

• The total amount of supervised experience required
• The number of direct client-contact hours
• Who may serve as an approved supervisor
• How often supervision must occur
• Which clinical activities may count toward licensure

Candidates should confirm these requirements before beginning post-degree work. Hours completed under an unapproved supervisor or in an ineligible setting may not count.

4. Pass the Required Licensing Examination

Nearly all jurisdictions use the MFT National Examination developed by the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards as part of the licensing process. Some states may also require a separate jurisprudence, ethics, or state-law examination.

Candidates generally apply through their state licensing board or another designated authority before registering for the national exam.

5. Apply for State Licensure

After meeting the education, clinical-experience, and examination requirements, candidates submit an application to the appropriate state board. The process may also include:

• Official transcripts
• Verification of supervised experience
• Examination scores
• Supervisor documentation
• A background check
• Application and licensing fees

Some states issue an associate, intern, or provisional credential while a graduate completes post-degree supervised experience. Titles and requirements vary by jurisdiction.

6. Maintain the License

LMFTs generally must renew their licenses periodically and complete continuing education. States may require training in subjects such as ethics, legal standards, cultural competence, suicide prevention, or teletherapy.

Therapists who move, serve clients in another state, or provide teletherapy across state lines should verify whether they need additional authorization. An LMFT license issued by one state does not automatically permit practice in every other state.

Professional Development

Professional associations such as the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy can provide continuing education, networking, publications, supervision resources, and information about developments in the profession.

Because licensing rules can change, students and graduates should rely on the licensing board in their intended state of practice for current requirements.

LMFT Careers and Further Education

An MFT degree can prepare graduates for clinical work with individuals, couples, and families, as well as roles in supervision, education, research, administration, and related behavioral health settings. The opportunities available depend on the graduate’s degree level, licensure status, experience, and any additional credentials required by an employer or state.

What Can You Do With an MFT Degree?

The most direct career path is becoming a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. LMFTs may work in settings such as:

• Private practices
• Community mental health agencies
• Hospitals and healthcare organizations
• Substance use treatment programs
• Residential treatment facilities
• Schools and educational settings
• Government or social service agencies
• Employee assistance programs

Marriage and family therapists assess and treat mental, emotional, behavioral, and relationship concerns through a systemic lens. Their work may involve individuals, couples, families, or groups.

Some graduates pursue related roles in clinical administration, program management, community outreach, or behavioral health consulting. Experienced LMFTs may also qualify to supervise newer clinicians, subject to state requirements.

Therapist vs. Psychologist: What’s the Difference?

“Therapist” is a broad term that may refer to several types of licensed mental health professionals, including LMFTs, licensed professional counselors, clinical social workers, and psychologists.

LMFTs generally earn a master’s degree and receive specialized training in relationships, family systems, and systemic therapy. Psychologists typically hold a PhD or PsyD and complete doctoral-level clinical training.

Both may provide psychotherapy, but psychologists may also receive extensive training in psychological testing, assessment, research, and diagnosis. Scope-of-practice rules vary by state, credential, and professional setting.

The better path depends on a student’s interests. Someone who wants to focus on relational and family-based treatment may prefer MFT training, while a student interested in psychological assessment, doctoral research, or certain specialized areas may prefer psychology.

Career Advancement

With experience and any required credentials, LMFTs may advance into roles such as:

• Clinical supervisor
• Program director
• Behavioral health administrator
• Consultant
• Graduate-level instructor
• Researcher
• Practice owner

Some roles, particularly tenure-track university positions or research-intensive careers, may require a doctoral degree.

Advanced Education Opportunities

MFT professionals who want to deepen their clinical expertise or expand their career options may pursue additional education after completing a master’s degree.

Doctoral Degrees

A PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy generally emphasizes research, theory development, teaching, and scholarship. A Doctor of Marriage and Family Therapy, or DMFT, typically places greater emphasis on advanced clinical practice, leadership, and the application of research in professional settings.

Program emphasis varies, so applicants should review the curriculum and intended career outcomes rather than relying only on the degree title.

Postgraduate Certificates

Postgraduate certificates can provide focused study in areas such as:

• Trauma
• Addiction
• Child and adolescent therapy
• Medical family therapy
• Sex therapy
• Couples therapy
• Clinical supervision

A certificate may strengthen a therapist’s knowledge but does not necessarily create a new license or expand the therapist’s legal scope of practice.

Clinical Supervision Credentials

Experienced LMFTs may pursue training or credentials that qualify them to supervise interns, associates, or other clinicians. Requirements vary by state and professional organization.

Continuing Education

Licensed therapists generally complete continuing education to renew their credentials. Continuing education may address ethics, legal requirements, cultural competence, teletherapy, clinical techniques, or population-specific needs.

LMFT Salary and Job Outlook

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for marriage and family therapists was $63,780 in May 2024. Median pay represents the point at which half of workers earned more and half earned less.

Actual earnings vary by location, experience, work setting, schedule, specialization, and whether the therapist is salaried or self-employed. Private-practice revenue should not be treated as take-home pay because practice owners may be responsible for expenses such as office space, insurance, billing, technology, taxes, and unpaid administrative time.

Employment of marriage and family therapists is projected to grow 13% from 2024 to 2034, which the BLS classifies as much faster than the average for all occupations. Approximately 7,700 openings per year are projected over that period, including openings created by employment growth and the need to replace workers who leave the occupation.

These national figures provide a broad benchmark. Students should also review employment conditions, reimbursement patterns, and licensing requirements in the state where they intend to work.

Resources for MFT Students and Graduates

Professional resources can help MFT students and graduates navigate education, clinical training, licensure, continuing education, and career development. The most useful resources will depend on a student’s program stage and intended state of practice.

Professional Associations

Professional associations can provide networking opportunities, continuing education, publications, conferences, ethics resources, and updates about the MFT profession.

The American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy is a major professional organization for marriage and family therapists. Students may also benefit from state-level MFT associations and local professional groups.

State Licensing Boards

State licensing boards are the primary source for current licensure requirements. Their websites typically explain:

• Educational requirements
• Supervised experience rules
• Approved examinations
• Application procedures
• Renewal requirements
• Continuing education standards
• Teletherapy and interstate-practice rules

Because requirements vary and may change, students should verify information directly with the board in the state where they plan to practice.

Examination Resources

Candidates preparing for licensure should review official information about the MFT National Examination, including eligibility, registration, testing procedures, and score reporting.

Study guides, preparation courses, and peer study groups may also be useful, but they should supplement rather than replace official examination information.

Research Journals and Publications

Academic journals help students and clinicians stay informed about new research, treatment approaches, ethical issues, and developments in family therapy.

The Journal of Marital and Family Therapy is one prominent publication in the field. University libraries may also provide access to databases containing research in counseling, psychology, social work, and behavioral health.

Continuing Education

Continuing education helps licensed therapists maintain their credentials and develop new areas of competence. Courses may focus on:

• Ethics and legal standards
• Trauma treatment
• Couples therapy
• Child and adolescent therapy
• Cultural responsiveness
• Teletherapy
• Suicide prevention
• Clinical supervision

Before enrolling, therapists should confirm that a course is accepted by their licensing board.

Career Services and Professional Networking

University career centers may offer résumé support, interview preparation, job listings, alumni connections, and guidance for entering private practice or agency work.

Conferences, workshops, professional associations, supervision groups, and online communities can also help students and graduates build professional relationships and learn about employment opportunities.

Clinical and Supervisory Support

Students and early-career therapists may benefit from consultation groups, peer supervision, mentorship, and additional clinical training. These resources can provide support when working through complex cases, ethical questions, or career decisions.

Therapists should protect client confidentiality when discussing clinical work and follow all applicable ethical and legal requirements.

Using Resources Effectively

Students and graduates should prioritize official and primary sources for licensure, examination, and regulatory information. Professional organizations, universities, journals, and continuing education providers can then supplement that guidance with training, networking, and career support.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there degree programs specifically for marriage and family therapy?

Yes. Marriage and family therapy programs are commonly offered at the master’s level as a Master of Arts, Master of Science, or Master of Marriage and Family Therapy. Doctoral and post-degree clinical training programs are also available.

Students planning to pursue licensure should confirm that a program satisfies the educational requirements of the state where they intend to practice.

Is an MFT degree the same as a counseling degree?

No. Although the fields overlap, an MFT degree focuses on relationships, family systems, and systemic approaches to treatment. A counseling degree may prepare students for broader or different areas of practice, such as clinical mental health, school, rehabilitation, or addiction counseling.

The licenses associated with these degrees also differ. Students should choose a program based on the professional credential they intend to pursue.

How much does an MFT degree cost?

The total cost varies considerably by school, degree type, program format, residency status, and enrollment pace. Students should consider more than advertised tuition when comparing programs.

Possible expenses include:

• Tuition and institutional fees
• Books and technology
• Travel or residency requirements
• Background checks
• Professional liability insurance
• Clinical placement expenses
• Supervision costs
• Examination and licensing fees

Prospective students should request a full program-cost estimate and review available scholarships, grants, assistantships, employer benefits, and federal financial aid.

Will I be licensed after graduating from an MFT program?

No. Graduation is an important step, but it does not automatically grant an LMFT license.

Candidates generally must also complete required supervised experience, pass an approved licensing examination, submit an application, and meet any additional requirements imposed by their state licensing board.

How long does it take to become licensed?

A full-time master’s program commonly takes two to three years. Many states then require post-degree supervised experience before independent licensure, which may take another one to three years or longer.

The total timeline depends on the program, state requirements, employment setting, availability of supervision, and how quickly the candidate accumulates qualifying hours.

Is an online MFT program as credible as an on-campus program?

An online program can provide rigorous academic and clinical preparation, but quality varies by institution. Students should review accreditation, faculty qualifications, clinical placement support, graduation outcomes, and state licensure compatibility.

Even when coursework is fully online, supervised clinical training is typically completed in person at an approved site.

What is the difference between a marriage and family therapist and a counselor?

Marriage and family therapists receive specialized training in relationship dynamics, family systems, and systemic treatment. Counselors may be trained in a broader range of individual and group counseling approaches or specialize in areas such as mental health, schools, careers, rehabilitation, or addiction.

Both may provide psychotherapy, but their education, licenses, and legal scopes of practice differ by state.

Are MFT and LMFT the same thing?

Not exactly. MFT may refer to the profession, the degree field, or a marriage and family therapist generally. LMFT specifically means Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.

Some states use different credential titles, such as associate or provisional designations, while a graduate completes supervised experience.

Do licensed MFTs earn more than unlicensed graduates?

Licensed therapists generally have access to more roles and may practice independently where permitted, which can increase earning potential. Pay still varies according to experience, location, work setting, specialization, schedule, and whether the therapist is salaried or self-employed.

How long does an online MFT program take?

Most full-time master’s programs take about two to three years. Part-time study may take longer.

The timeline may also be affected by course sequencing, clinical placement availability, residency requirements, and whether the program offers classes throughout the year.

What skills are important for an LMFT?

Effective marriage and family therapists need strong skills in:

• Active listening
• Empathy
• Verbal and written communication
• Assessment and treatment planning
• Critical thinking
• Conflict management
• Cultural responsiveness
• Ethical decision-making
• Professional boundaries
• Emotional resilience

They must also be able to understand individual concerns within broader relationship, family, and social systems.

Can LMFTs diagnose mental health conditions?

LMFTs are trained to assess and diagnose mental and emotional disorders when permitted by their state’s scope-of-practice laws. Their clinical approach often considers how symptoms interact with relationships and family systems.

Because legal authority varies, therapists should follow the rules of the jurisdiction where they practice.

Can LMFTs prescribe medication?

No. LMFTs do not prescribe medication. Prescribing authority is generally limited to appropriately licensed medical professionals and certain other healthcare providers whose state-defined scope of practice includes medication management.

LMFTs may collaborate with psychiatrists, physicians, and other prescribers when medication is part of a client’s treatment plan.