Walden University : MS in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling (CACREP Accredited) Walden University : PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision, Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling (HLC Accredited)
Liberty University : MA: Marriage and Family Therapy (Online with required intensives)
Grand Canyon University : Master's Degree in Counseling (As a private university, GCU has the same in-state and out-of-state tuition.)
National University : Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy (Accredited. No GRE. Scholarships Available) National University : Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy (Accredited. No GRE. Scholarships Available)
Pepperdine University : Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology Degrees (GRE scores are not required to apply, and you can earn your degree in as few as 27 months. LPC/MFT emphases available.)
University of Wisconsin – Superior : MSE Counseling - Marriage & Family Therapy Track (100% Online, No GRE Required)
Lamar University : Master of Education in Counseling & Development - Marriage Couple & Family Counseling (100% Online, Affordable Tuition, Study on Your Time)The MFT Field
Marriage and family therapy (MFT) is a specialized area within counseling that focuses on helping individuals, couples, and families address relational and emotional challenges. Unlike general counseling, MFT emphasizes understanding and improving interpersonal relationships, examining issues from a systemic perspective that considers family dynamics, communication patterns, and social influences. This field encompasses a broad range of therapeutic practices, focusing on issues like conflict resolution, family structure, mental health, and the effects of trauma on relationships.
Marriage and family therapists are trained to approach counseling with an understanding of these relationship dynamics, equipping them to help clients improve communication, resolve conflicts, and develop stronger relationships. The MFT field includes various roles, from entry-level counselors working under supervision to fully licensed practitioners who may operate their own private practices.
Unlicensed Marriage and Family Therapists
“MFT” can also refer to unlicensed therapists. Also referred to as MFT Associates, these therapists typically work under the supervision of a licensed professional. In these support roles, they may engage in clinical practice to build necessary skills and fulfill required supervised hours, but they cannot practice independently or advertise themselves as licensed therapists.
Consider a Featured Online Counseling Program
| School and Program Information | Online Program? Entry Requirements |
Course Information |
|---|---|---|
| Walden University
MS in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling
 CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
|
Learn how to support the well-being of your students as they cope with complex personal and family challenges. Explore human sexual development as well as the relationships and family dynamics impacting young people’s lives today. Build the cross-cultural competencies and skills required to understand family structures, life-cycle dynamics, intergenerational influences, and healthy family functioning. The optional accelerated track is designed for students who are interested in taking three courses per quarter and potentially finishing their program in a shorter time frame. The accelerated track has the same curriculum, residencies, and field experience requirements as the general track, but requires a strong time commitment and is best suited for students who can dedicate themselves full time to their studies. Learn More |
| Walden University
PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision, Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling
HLC Accredited |
✔ Online
|
In the PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision with a specialization in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling, you’ll look at human sexuality and empirically supported treatments and techniques for promoting the well-being of couples. Build competencies for working effectively with children and adolescents. You’ll also learn how to assess procedures for evaluating research in this area—and how to apply these findings to your practice. Learn More |
| Liberty University
MA: Marriage and Family Therapy
SACSCOC |
✔ Online
Online with required intensives |
A Liberty University marriage and family therapy master’s program online can prepare you to help individuals, couples, and families find healing through counseling. Online and on campus. Training Champions for Christ since 1971. Learn More |
| Grand Canyon University
Master's Degree in Counseling
HLC and NASAC Accredited |
✔ Online
|
Clinical Mental Health Counseling master's degree emphases include: Childhood and Adolescence Disorders, Christian Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, and Trauma. Designed to meet the academic requirements of the National Board for Certified Counselors for the National Certified Counselor credential, the Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor credential and the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners. As a private university, GCU has the same in-state and out-of-state tuition. Learn More |
| National University
Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy
COAMFTE Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE Scores Not Required |
Earn your masters in Marriage and Family Therapy at National University. COAMFTE and IACSTE accredited. Learn More |
| National University
Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy
COAMFTE Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE Scores Not Required |
Earn your Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy at National University. COAMFTE and IACSTE accredited. Learn More |
| Pepperdine University
Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology Degrees
LPC/MFT emphases available. |
✔ Online
No GRE Required. Bachelor's Degree Required. |
Choose your path at Pepperdine: pursue licensure as either an LMFT or LPC and serve diverse clients with our online master’s in clinical psychology. GRE scores are not required to apply, and you can earn your degree in as few as 27 months. Take the next step toward creating a positive social impact today. Learn More |
| University of Wisconsin – Superior
MSE Counseling - Marriage & Family Therapy Track
|
✔ Online
100% Online, No GRE Required |
Aligned to state law and accreditation standards, our programs equip you with the academic and professional development that will prepare you for the Wisconsin and/or Minnesota counseling licensure exams. Expand your expertise in three major areas: the prevention of personal and interpersonal problems, fostering optimal human development, and addressing existing social-emotional-developmental concerns that affect individuals as well as their families. Learn More |
| Lamar University
Master of Education in Counseling & Development - Marriage Couple & Family Counseling
AAQEP Accredited |
✔ Online
Minimum 3.0 Undergrad GPA |
Learn how to diagnose mental and emotional disorders and resolve marriage and family conflicts related to divorce, mediation, child rearing, family violence and more. Learn More |
*Sponsored Counseling Programs
Online CACREP Accredited programs | Online MPCAC Accredited programs
The LMFT Professional Role
An LMFT, or Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, is a credentialed professional who has completed the necessary education, training, and licensing exams to provide therapeutic services independently. Unlike a general MFT, who may be working towards full licensure, an LMFT has met specific state requirements to practice autonomously or within a clinical team, often providing counseling to individuals, couples, and families with a focus on relational and emotional health.
Educational Path
To become an LMFT, individuals typically need to complete a master’s or doctoral degree in marriage and family therapy or a closely related field. Accredited programs often provide coursework on family systems, therapy techniques, ethics, and cultural competency, alongside supervised clinical experience. The LMFT path ensures that professionals are well-equipped to handle a variety of cases in settings ranging from private practices to community agencies.
Licensing Requirements
LMFT licensing requirements vary by state but generally include a graduate degree, supervised clinical hours, and passing a state or national licensing exam. This license confirms that therapists are qualified to diagnose, treat, and manage issues related to family dynamics, relationship conflicts, and mental health within a therapeutic context.
How to Become an LMFT
Pursuing a career as an LMFT requires a structured path involving formal education, supervised experience, and passing licensing exams. Here’s a closer look at each step:
Education
The journey to becoming an LMFT begins with the completion of a graduate degree in marriage and family therapy or a closely related field. This program typically includes coursework on psychology, counseling theories, family systems, and ethics, with a strong emphasis on understanding relational dynamics and therapeutic techniques.
Program Types
Most LMFT candidates complete either a master’s or doctoral degree. Master’s programs are more common, generally taking two to three years to complete, while doctoral programs are often pursued by those interested in advanced practice, research, or academic roles. For anyone seeking to become a marriage counselor, this step is essential.
Specializations and Curriculum
Many LMFT programs offer specializations that allow students to focus on specific populations or types of therapy, such as child and adolescent therapy, trauma therapy, or couples therapy. Core curricula usually include courses on cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, and multicultural counseling. Additionally, students complete supervised clinical hours, where they practice counseling under the guidance of licensed professionals.
Accreditation
Choosing an accredited program is crucial for LMFT candidates. Accredited programs, such as COAMFTE accredited MFT programs, meet the educational standards required for licensure in most states. Accreditation not only ensures program quality but also simplifies the process of meeting licensing requirements after graduation.
Formats
Many universities offer flexibility in program delivery, with options for full-time, part-time, and online learning formats. While traditional in-person programs allow for direct interaction with faculty and peers, online or hybrid formats can be beneficial for working professionals or those balancing family responsibilities.
Licensing and Certification Requirements
Once educational requirements are completed, aspiring LMFTs must fulfill additional state licensing requirements, which typically include:
- Supervised Clinical Experience: Candidates usually need between 2,000 and 4,000 hours of supervised post-graduate experience, with exact requirements varying by state.
- Licensing Exams: Most states require LMFT candidates to pass a national or state-specific exam, such as the National MFT Exam administered by the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB).
Meeting these requirements allows candidates to apply for full licensure as an LMFT, enabling them to practice independently or in clinical settings.
Job Outlook and Salary for Counselors
The demand for mental health professionals, including marriage and family therapists (MFTs), continues to grow as awareness of mental health needs and services expands across the United States. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of marriage and family therapists is projected to increase by 16 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.
The median annual wage for marriage and family therapists was $58,510 as of May 2023. Wages can vary widely depending on factors such as location, work setting, and experience. The top 10 percent of MFTs earned more than $104,710 annually, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $39,090.
In addition, wage data from the BLS highlights common work environments and their respective median wages:
- State government, excluding education and hospitals: $86,030
- Outpatient care centers: $61,390
- Individual and family services: $50,700
- Offices of other health practitioners: $49,190
Marriage and family therapists can find employment in diverse settings, including private practices, hospitals, community agencies, and outpatient centers. This growing field offers rewarding opportunities for those passionate about supporting individuals, couples, and families through complex emotional and relational challenges.
Walden University - MS in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Liberty University - MA: Marriage and Family Therapy (SACSCOC Accredited)
Grand Canyon University - Master's Degree in Counseling (NASAC Accredited)
National University - Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy (COAMFTE Accredited)
National University - Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy (COAMFTE Accredited)
Pepperdine University - Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology Degrees
University of Wisconsin – Superior - MSE Counseling - Marriage & Family Therapy Track
Lamar University - Master of Education in Counseling & Development - Marriage Couple & Family CounselingFAQ on MFT vs LMFT
What is the primary difference between MFT and LMFT?
The main difference is that “MFT” usually refers to the broader field of marriage and family therapy, encompassing the various roles, responsibilities, and therapeutic approaches that professionals in this discipline utilize. “LMFT” stands for Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, a credential that allows practitioners to provide therapy services independently, often without supervision, depending on state regulations.
How long does it take to become an LMFT?
The journey to becoming an LMFT typically takes between six to eight years. This includes completing a bachelor’s degree, a master’s or doctoral degree in marriage and family therapy or a related field, and the supervised clinical hours required for licensure. State requirements vary, so it’s essential to verify specific timelines with your state’s licensing board.
What types of programs should I consider to become an LMFT?
Aspiring LMFTs should look for COAMFTE accredited MFT programs or programs accredited by CACREP (the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs). Accreditation ensures that the program meets high standards, which may help in securing licensure post-graduation.
Can I become a marriage counselor without an LMFT license?
In most states, providing independent marriage and family counseling services requires an LMFT license. However, some individuals may work under supervision as they pursue licensure or in roles that support licensed counselors, which can still provide valuable experience.
Is an LMFT license recognized nationwide?
While the LMFT credential is recognized across the U.S., licensure requirements vary significantly by state. Some states may have different titles or additional requirements, so it’s essential to review the rules specific to your location or any states where you might consider practicing.
Summary
Marriage and family therapy offers unique opportunities to support individuals, couples, and families through challenging times. Understanding the difference between MFT as a field and LMFT as a professional designation can help prospective students make informed decisions about their career paths. An LMFT credential allows practitioners to work independently and often opens doors to advanced career roles and leadership opportunities. By choosing accredited programs, understanding state licensure requirements, and following a focused educational path, students can build a rewarding career in this impactful field.
List of Programs
Walden University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Walden University 🗹 Online 🗗 Doctorate
Liberty University 🗹 Online
Grand Canyon University 🗹 Online
National University 🗹 Online Courses Start Weekly
National University 🗹 Online Courses Start Weekly
Pepperdine University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
University of Wisconsin – Superior 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Lamar University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Colorado Christian University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
University of West Alabama 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Campbellsville University 🗹 Online Masters
