8 Steps To Become a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT)

Our families and spouses are the people we love most. They are the ones we turn to for consistent support and understanding.

Yet it is also true that personal relationships can be complicated. When miscommunication occurs with loved ones, it may lead to pain and anger.

Sometimes the discord that seems insurmountable can be overcome by bringing in a fresh perspective from someone who can help define the root of the issues and assist in paving a path forward.

What Does a Family and Marriage Counselor Do?

As a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), you can help couples and families examine their conflicts and work to repair the bonds they hold so dearly.

Through listening, discussing, and advising, you could help your clients find ways to make their relationships and families thrive. If you're eager to learn more, read on to discover how to become a marriage counselor.

Services Offered by Marriage and Family Therapists

While specializing in relationships, marriage and family therapists help in many ways.

• They diagnose and address emotional and mental disorders within families, couples, and marriages.
• LMFTs provide psychotherapy, including group, family, and couples therapy.
• As per the AAMFT, therapy provided by marriage and family therapists is typically solution-focused and goal-oriented, often spanning short-term interventions, typically around 12 sessions.

Disorders and Challenges Addressed by Marriage and Family Therapists

Marriage and family therapists are equipped to address a diverse range of disorders and challenges impacting relationships.

Examples highlighted by the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) include:

• adolescent drug abuse
• alcoholism
• anxiety
• child-parent problems
• dementia
• depression
• individual psychological problems
• marital distress
• obesity

Marriage and Family Therapist Licensure Criteria

While each state maintains distinct requirements for licensure, marriage and family therapists generally need to fulfill 2,000 to 4,000 documented hours of clinical services.

These hours, overseen by an approved supervisor such as a licensed marriage and family therapist, licensed clinical social worker, licensed professional clinical counselor, or licensed psychologist are crucial for licensure.

Completion of mandatory education courses, clinical hours, and successful passage of state board exams are prerequisites for licensure, though specific conditions vary by state. Prospective therapists should consult the relevant state board for precise information.

Post-licensure, adherence to board regulations is imperative for marriage and family therapists, who are also required to accumulate continuing education unitsExternal link:open_in_new (CEUs) to sustain an active professional status.

Becoming a Marriage and Family Therapist: Unraveling the 8 Essential Steps

Unlock the path to becoming a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) with these crucial steps for a fulfilling career.

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor's Degree

Embark on your journey by earning a bachelor's degree in counseling, psychology, social work, or sociology. Explore fieldwork opportunities to showcase your interest in the therapy profession.

Step 2: Earn a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy

Delve into a master's program in marriage and family therapy or a related mental health field. Consider COAMFTE or CACREP-accredited programs for quality standards and increased post-graduation employment prospects.

Marriage and Family Therapy Program

Unveil the intricacies of human cognition and behavior by learning techniques for psychotherapy and gaining expertise in diagnosing mental health disorders. Fulfill the COAMFTE requirements, including a 500-hour internship with AAMFT-approved supervision.

Mental Health Counseling

Explore an alternative track with a master's in mental health counseling, ensuring it includes MFT components for licensure recognition.

Step 3: Complete Additional Hours of Supervised Clinical Experience

After graduation, accumulate 2,000 to 4,000 supervised clinical hours, categorized into direct and indirect contact. Fulfill state-specific requirements and gain a temporary professional license.

Step 4: Pass the Required Licensing Exams

Conquer the Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) National Examination and any state-specific exams. Secure approval from your state before registering with AMFTRB for the MFT exam.

Step 5: Apply for Licensure

Apply for an independent practice license, such as Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), aligning with your state's requirements. Explore the extensive list of state licensure boards for detailed instructions.

Step 6: Complete Continuing Education

Adhere to state-specific continuing education requirements, ensuring professional improvement and staying updated on field developments. Explore online resources like AAMFT, Aspira Continuing Education, and Professional Development Resources.

Step 7: Explore Certifications

Enhance your expertise with certificates in areas like Expressive Art Therapy, EMDR, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, DBT, Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Sandtray Therapist, or PCIT.

Step 8: Understand the Career Outlook

Witness the dynamic career outlook with 14% projected growth from 2021 to 2031, offering flexibility in various industries. Explore diverse workplaces, including hospitals, clinics, schools, private practice, and government settings.

MFT Internships and Clinical Training

Every state mandates that marriage and family therapists (MFTs) undergo supervised, on-site training at an approved clinical counseling facility to meet licensure requirements.

The American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) suggests an average of approximately two years for MFTs to complete supervised clinical experience, encompassing 1,500 to 4,000 hours, before becoming eligible for licensure.

Certain states may issue a provisional MFT intern license to graduates of master's programs, allowing them to work towards fulfilling their internship and residency requirements.

The Transformative Role of Marriage and Family Therapists

Our families and relationships form the core of our lives. As a licensed marriage and family therapist, you'll guide individuals through challenges, fostering growth, and creating meaningful change.

The journey to becoming an MFT is a profound exploration that opens doors to a fulfilling career dedicated to making a positive impact on people's lives.

Ready to start your transformative journey? Explore accredited online programs and take the first step toward becoming a marriage and family therapist today.