Grand Canyon University : Master's Degree in Counseling (Affordable Program with No Out of State Tuition)
Northwestern University : Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy (Complete your COAMFTE-accredited MFT online program in as few as 21 months. No GRE required.)
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.)
Liberty University : MA: Marriage and Family Therapy (Online with required intensives)
University of Wisconsin – Superior : MSE Counseling - Marriage & Family Therapy Track (100% Online, No GRE Required)
National University : Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy (Accredited. No GRE. Scholarships Available)
Colorado Christian University : Clinical Mental Health Counseling, M.A. - Marriage & Family Therapy (100% online, or hybrid format. ) National University : Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy (Accredited. No GRE. Scholarships Available)The Relevance and Requirements of a Career in Marriage and Family Therapy
The Growing Need for Specialists
In our modern society, the demand for marriage and family therapy counselors is increasing. These experts assist individuals, couples, and families in navigating various challenges affecting their emotional well-being and relationships. A career as a marriage and family therapist can be incredibly fulfilling, often beginning with the question: how does one become qualified in this field?
Pathway to Becoming a Licensed Therapist
To succeed as a therapist, several steps must be followed. The journey typically begins with obtaining a quality education in counseling, often through a master's degree program from an accredited institution. Once the educational criteria are met, aspiring therapists must seek licensure from their respective state boards. This license serves as proof that you are qualified to practice, ensuring that you meet all state-required standards for providing services to the public.
Clinical Effectiveness of MFT
Marriage and family therapy is not just a form of counseling; it is a proven method for treating various clinical issues. According to the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), this form of therapy has been found effective in treating adult schizophrenia, mood disorders, anorexia in young adult women, as well as marital and child-parent conflicts.
The Impact of MFT in Modern Society
The importance of marriage and family therapy extends beyond individual treatment plans. It has a broader societal impact by addressing relationship challenges, improving the well-being of children and communities, and offering mental health support. Understanding the ever-changing family structures is essential, as it enables therapists to provide personalized services tailored to individual and familial needs.
Steps to Become an MFT Counselor
As an aspiring MFT counselor, there are several steps you must take and pass to be recognized to practice counseling services. How to become a marriage counselor should be the first step you have to look into by exploring industry requirements and determining if you are the best fit to become a therapist.
Here are some of the steps you have to pass to become an MFT counselor:
Complete Relevant Bachelor's Degree
The first step of becoming an MFT counselor is to obtain a bachelor's degree in counseling-related programs. MFT programs help to equip students with skills and knowledge to prepare them for industry practices.
The chosen degree program should meet the minimum standards for licensure. It is important to note that different states have different requirements that should be met for a potential MFT therapist to be fully recognized and licensed to practice.
For any interested candidate seeking to pursue a career in marriage and family counseling, it is best to check on the university minimum requirements to be enrolled in the degree program.
MFT programs can be offered both in person and online for students who might find the study mode convenient. The duration for completing this program can vary from two to three years, depending on the mode of study.
Enroll in an Accredited Master's Program in MFT
After completing a bachelor's degree program, you can enroll in a master's program in MFT at an accredited institution. Accrediting bodies such as the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE) help to promote best practices for marriage and family therapy.
COAMFTE provides a clear framework and guidelines. This helps to improve the accreditation standards and policies to ensure MFT students get quality education.
Fulfill Supervised Clinical Experience Requirements
Like other programs, having undergone a supervised clinical experience is essential to determine a student's suitability to practice counseling. Also, most states require students to undergo several supervised clinical hours as part of their training.
To gain practical experience, you will need to work under the supervision of a licensed MFT practitioner. A supervised clinical experience will help improve your counseling skills, which you can apply in real-world situations.
Pass the National MFT Exam
After completing both your bachelor's master's degree program and supervised clinical experience, you will need to pass the national MFT examinations. These examinations are usually administered by the Association of Marriage and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB).
The AMFTRB governs the regulation of LMFTs by developing and administering the MFT national examinations used by jurisdictions as the requirements to license candidates.
Obtain State Licensure
Before practicing as an MFT counselor, you must obtain a state licensure. However, licensure requirements vary from state to state. Typical requirements for obtaining licensure are submitting your educational transcripts and supervised clinical hours' documentation.
Pursue Continuing Education and Specialization
MFT, like any other field, is continuously evolving. Continuing your education and specialization in this field would be important in keeping you up to date with current industry trends and practices. This can be achieved by attending workshops and conferences or enrolling in advanced training in different MFT areas.
Consider a Featured Online Counseling Program
| School and Program Information | Online Program? Entry Requirements |
Course Information |
|---|---|---|
| Grand Canyon University
Master's Degree in Counseling
HLC and NASAC Accredited |
✔ 100% Online
Over 14 Specializations Available |
Affordable with No Out of State Tuition Learn More |
| Northwestern University
Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy
COAMFTE Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE Not Required Bachelor's Required |
The COAMFTE-accredited MFT@Northwestern is offered by The Family Institute at Northwestern University. Full-time students can complete the program in as few as 21 months. No GRE is required, but applicants must hold an undergraduate degree. Full and part-time tracks available. 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 |
| 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 |
| 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 |
| 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 |
| Colorado Christian University
Clinical Mental Health Counseling, M.A. - Marriage & Family Therapy
 CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
Bachelor's Degree |
Taught by Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), preparing you for licensure as a LMFT in a clinical environment. Required to attend a five-day on-campus residency held each summer of the program. 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 |
*Sponsored Counseling Programs
Online CACREP Accredited programs | Online MPCAC Accredited programs
Why Become an MFT Counselor?
Becoming an MFT counselor can be as rewarding as other professions. You can make a difference in society with proper counseling skills and knowledge.
The following are some of the reasons to become an MFT counselor:
- The difference MFT counselors make in lives
- The increasing demand for family and marriage therapy
- Flexible work environment
- Wide-ranging skill set
Where Do MFT Counselors Work?
MFT counselors can generally seek opportunities in various facilities or institutions nationwide.
MFT counselors can work in the following places:
- Private practices
- Hospitals
- Mental health clinics
- Schools and Universities
- Social Service Agencies
MFT Counselor Salary
An MFT therapist's salary depends on several factors, such as experience. Also, where one intends to practice will significantly influence the compensation they get from their profession.
Average Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average salary for marriage and family therapists is $56,570 as of 2022.
Highest MFT Counselor Salary
The highest MFT counselor salary varies based on several factors, such as location of practice, education, experience, and specialization of an MFT therapist. Top earners among marriage and family therapists have annual salaries approaching $100,000, according to the BLS. Highly skilled and experienced MFT counselors practicing in private facilities will likely be paid more than the average.
Highest Paying States for MFT Counselors
MFT counselors' salaries differ from state to state. Factors such as cost of living, demand for MFT therapists, population, regulation, and licensing requirements primarily influence this.
Top paying states for marriage and family therapists, according to the BLS, are:
- Utah (annual mean wage, $88,980)
- New Jersey ($83,590)
- Maryland ($81,320)
- Wyoming ($80,330)
- Virginia ($75,990)
MFT Counselor Career and Job Growth
The field of MFT is continuously evolving. This brings with it new concepts that MFT counselors should be current with.
- Trends in the field. As time progresses, MFT has witnessed several changes. Many people are becoming aware of MFT and how it can be an effective treatment plan for the different challenges they experience.
- Projected job growth rate. According to the BLS, the employment of MFTs is projected to grow 15 percent from 2022 to 2032. This projection is believed to be faster than the average for all occupations. Data from the BLS shows that roughly 71,200 opportunities for marriage and family therapists are projected annually over the decade.
Degrees for MFT Counselors
As an interested MFT counseling candidate, having the right education qualifications and meeting the minimum practice requirements can make you a suitable match for an LMFT role.
Bachelor's Degree (Prerequisite)
As you venture into family therapy and counseling, obtaining a bachelor's degree in psychology or counseling is the first step to consider. A bachelor's degree is essential to properly understand human behavior and psychology, which is necessary to provide relationship guidance and counseling services.
Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy
After completing your bachelor's degree, you can choose to complete a master's MFT degree program. Depending on your learning mode, you can complete this program either through in-person learning or an online counseling program.
Doctoral Degrees (For advanced research and clinical work)
For many, a master's degree in MFT is sufficient to practice therapy and counseling services. Some students may prefer to continue with their studies by pursuing doctoral degrees for careers in advanced clinical work and research.
Grand Canyon University - Master's Degree in Counseling (NASAC Accredited)
Northwestern University - Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy (COAMFTE Accredited)
Pepperdine University - Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology Degrees
Liberty University - MA: Marriage and Family Therapy (SACSCOC Accredited)
University of Wisconsin – Superior - MSE Counseling - Marriage & Family Therapy Track
National University - Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy (COAMFTE Accredited)
Colorado Christian University - Clinical Mental Health Counseling, M.A. - Marriage & Family Therapy National University - Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy (COAMFTE Accredited)
MFT Counselor FAQ
What Degree Do I Need to Become an MFT Counselor?
A master’s degree is the first step to becoming an MFT counselor. Many universities across the nation offer MFT programs.
What do MFT Counselors Do?
The primary work of MFT counselors is to provide psychotherapy and mental health support services to people or families affected or undergoing relationship problems. MFT specialists provide guidance and assistance to individuals or couples who might be experiencing relationship problems.
How Long Does It Take to Become an MFT Counselor?
Becoming an MFT counselor takes about 2 to 3 years, particularly for full-time students. However, if you are undertaking the program online, the completion duration can vary depending on your school. The duration is also influenced by the number of clinical hours and different settings required to prove your competency as a therapist.
How Much Do MFT Counselors Earn?
The salary of an MFT counselor varies from state to state as it depends on several factors, such as your education, experience in the profession, and specialization. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage of an MFT counselor is $56,570 as of 2022.
What Skills are Essential for MFT Counselors?
As an MFT counselor, you need to possess a wide range of skills to ensure best practices. Some skills essential for practice are a great understanding of family therapy, counseling psychology, and mental health counseling. Furthermore, you should have excellent communication and problem-solving skills and assessment and diagnosis skills.
Are There Internship Opportunities for MFT Students?
Yes. Like other fields, there are internship opportunities for MFT students. Internship opportunities help students advance their education and training to gain hands-on experience in the best industry practices. Some internship opportunities for MFT students include clinical practice, couples, family counseling centers, and private practice internships.
What Are the Licensing Requirements for MFT Counselors?
After completing a master’s degree in MFT and gaining the required clinical hours, you will need to pass a state licensure exam to become a licensed MFT counselor. Licensing requirements may vary from state to state, so it’s essential to check the specific requirements for the state where you intend to practice.
Can I Specialize in a Specific Area as an MFT Counselor?
Yes, specialization is possible within the field of MFT. Some common specializations include trauma therapy, adolescent counseling, substance abuse counseling, and marital therapy. Specialization often requires additional training and certification.
Are There Continuing Education Requirements for MFT Counselors?
To maintain licensure, MFT counselors generally need to fulfill continuing education requirements. These typically involve a specific number of hours of approved coursework or workshops every couple of years.
What are the Pros and Cons of Online MFT Programs?
Online MFT programs offer the convenience of studying from anywhere and often allow you to progress at your own pace. However, you’ll need to ensure that the program you choose is accredited and meets the licensing requirements of your state. Also, some online programs might not offer as much hands-on clinical experience as traditional programs.
How Do I Choose the Right MFT Program?
When selecting an MFT program, consider factors such as accreditation, faculty credentials, curriculum, and available resources for students. You should also consider the program’s placement rates, as this can give you an idea of how successful graduates are in finding employment in the field.
What Types of Settings Do MFT Counselors Typically Work In?
MFT counselors can work in various settings, including private practice, mental health clinics, hospitals, and schools. Some also work in corporate settings, focusing on work-life balance and organizational behavior.
How is the Job Market for MFT Counselors?
The job market for MFT counselors is generally favorable. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of marriage and family therapists is projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations.
By addressing these additional questions, potential students and aspiring MFT counselors can gain a more comprehensive understanding of what the field entails.
Sources
About Marriage and Family Therapists: This resource from the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy includes general information about marriage and family therapy, statistics, and the importance of using MFTs.
Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics: This resource from the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics provides information about marriage and Family therapists’ employment rates and salaries.
Marriage and Family Therapists: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics source provides an occupational outlook for MFTs. The source also provides statistics about job growth and pay.
