How to Become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Georgia 2025
To become a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) in Georgia, you need a master's degree in marriage and family therapy or a related field, 2,500 hours of supervised professional experience (including 1,000 hours of direct client contact), 200 hours of supervision from an approved supervisor, Georgia board approval, and must pass the national AMFTRB exam. The entire process typically takes 6-8 years from undergraduate to licensure, with median salaries of $63,290 annually in Georgia.
Marriage and family therapists play a vital role in Georgia's mental health landscape, helping individuals, couples, and families navigate relationship challenges, mental health concerns, and life transitions. With Georgia's growing population and increasing awareness of mental health needs, the demand for qualified LMFTs continues to rise, with median salaries reaching $63,290 annually. If you're considering a career helping families build stronger relationships and healthier communication patterns, understanding Georgia's specific licensure requirements is your first step toward this rewarding profession.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about becoming a licensed marriage and family therapist in Georgia, including education pathways, clinical training requirements, examination details, costs, salary expectations, and career outlook based on the latest 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What is a Marriage and Family Therapist?
A marriage and family therapist is a licensed mental health professional who specializes in treating individuals, couples, and families within the context of their relationships and family systems. Unlike other mental health professionals who may focus primarily on individual psychology, MFTs bring a unique relational perspective to treatment, recognizing that a person's mental health is deeply connected to their family dynamics and relationship patterns.
MFTs are trained to evaluate how family roles, communication patterns, and relationship dynamics affect their clients' mental health and well-being. Even when treating an individual client, an MFT considers the broader family system and how changes in one family member can create positive ripple effects throughout the entire family unit.
What MFTs treat:
- Marital and relationship conflicts
- Parent-child communication problems
- Blended family adjustments
- Divorce and separation issues
- Infidelity and trust rebuilding
- Premarital counseling
- Mental health concerns within family context (depression, anxiety, trauma)
- Family-based substance abuse treatment
- Life transitions affecting the family unit
Work settings in Georgia: MFTs in Georgia work in diverse settings including private practice, community mental health centers, hospitals, substance abuse treatment facilities, employee assistance programs, schools, family service agencies, and religious organizations. Many experienced MFTs in Georgia establish thriving private practices, particularly in metropolitan areas like Atlanta, Augusta, Savannah, and Columbus.
Education Requirements in Georgia
Georgia's licensing board has specific educational requirements that you must meet before you can pursue LMFT licensure. The Georgia Composite Board of Professional Counselors, Social Workers, and Marriage and Family Therapists oversees these requirements to ensure all licensed professionals meet rigorous academic and clinical standards.
Master's Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy
The primary pathway to Georgia LMFT licensure is earning a master's degree specifically in marriage and family therapy. These programs provide specialized training in family systems theory, relational dynamics, and therapeutic interventions designed for couples and families.
Ideal candidates for MFT-specific programs: Students who know from the start they want to work with couples and families should pursue a master's in MFT. These programs typically include 60 credits and integrate clinical training throughout the curriculum, preparing you directly for the specialized work of family therapy.
Alternative Related Master's Degrees
Georgia also accepts master's degrees in related fields, provided you complete additional coursework to meet MFT-specific requirements. Related degrees that may qualify include:
- Clinical Social Work
- Professional Counseling
- Applied Psychology
- Pastoral Counseling
- Applied Sociology
Additional coursework required: If you complete a related master's degree instead of a degree specifically in MFT, you must complete either:
- Option A: Three graduate courses in clinical content areas relevant to marriage and family therapy, OR
- Option B: Two graduate courses in clinical content areas plus an approved internship or practicum that includes at least 500 hours of direct clinical experience
Required Core Courses
Regardless of your specific degree path, Georgia requires all LMFT applicants to complete five specific courses:
- Two courses in marriage and family therapy - Focus on therapeutic techniques, interventions, and treatment modalities specific to couples and families
- Two courses in marriage and family studies - Cover family systems theory, family development, cultural considerations, and research in family dynamics
- One course in marriage and family therapy ethics - Addresses ethical decision-making, professional boundaries, confidentiality in family therapy, and Georgia-specific legal requirements
These five courses are required in addition to any other coursework needed to meet the clinical content requirements if you're coming from a related field rather than a dedicated MFT program.
Accreditation Considerations
While not legally required in Georgia, completing a degree from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE) offers significant advantages. COAMFTE accreditation ensures your program meets national standards for MFT education and is recognized across all U.S. states, making it easier if you ever want to pursue licensure in another state.
Clinical Experience Requirements
Georgia requires extensive supervised clinical experience to ensure you've developed the practical skills necessary to work effectively with clients. This hands-on training is where you'll apply your academic knowledge in real-world therapeutic settings.
Total Experience Required: 2,500 Hours
You must accumulate a minimum of 2,500 hours of post-graduate supervised professional experience. Georgia's requirements break down as follows:
| Experience Component | Hours Required | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Total Professional Experience | 2,500 hours | Combined direct and indirect professional activities |
| Direct Client Contact | 1,000 hours minimum | Face-to-face therapy sessions with clients |
| Other Professional Activities | Up to 1,500 hours | Case documentation, treatment planning, consultation, professional development |
| Time Requirement | 24 months minimum | At least 2 years must be spent accumulating experience |
| Maximum Time Frame | 3-5 years | Part-time practitioners have up to 5 years to complete hours |
Understanding the hour breakdown: While 1,000 hours must be direct client contact (face-to-face therapy sessions), the remaining 1,500 hours can include other essential professional activities such as clinical documentation, treatment planning, case consultation with supervisors or colleagues, attending staff meetings, completing assessments, and participating in professional development activities related to your clinical work.
Practicum Experience
Up to one year of your required professional experience can come from an approved practicum program completed either before or after receiving your master's degree. To count toward licensure, this practicum must include:
- Minimum of 500 hours of professional experience (including direct clinical contact)
- Experience in clinical social work, professional counseling, or marriage and family therapy
- Proper supervision by a qualified clinical supervisor
- Integration with your academic program (if completed during your degree)
Understanding the Experience Timeline
Georgia's experience requirements are designed to ensure thorough clinical development:
Full-time practitioners: If you work full-time in a clinical setting (30+ hours per week), you can typically complete the 2,500-hour requirement in approximately 2-3 years. Remember that 1,000 hours must be direct client contact, with the remaining hours coming from other professional activities.
Part-time practitioners: Those working part-time must complete their hours within a time frame of no less than three years but no more than five years. This flexibility allows you to build professional experience while managing other responsibilities.
Quality over speed: While it might be tempting to rush through your required hours, remember that this supervised professional experience is where you'll develop the therapeutic skills that will define your entire career. Take the time to work with diverse client populations, various presenting problems, and gain experience in both direct clinical work and the essential professional activities that support quality therapy.
Supervision Requirements
All clinical experience must be properly supervised to count toward licensure. Georgia requires 200 hours of supervision concurrent with your documented clinical experience.
Who can supervise you: Your supervisor must be one of the following licensed professionals:
- Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in Georgia
- Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Georgia
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Georgia
- Licensed Psychologist in Georgia
- Licensed Psychiatrist in Georgia
Supervision structure:
- At least 100 hours must be provided by a supervisor approved by either the Georgia board or the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT)
- At least 100 hours must be individual supervision (one-on-one with your supervisor)
- Up to 100 hours can be group supervision (with multiple supervisees)
- Up to 100 hours of supervision may be obtained during an approved practicum program
What happens in supervision: Supervision sessions typically involve reviewing your clinical work, discussing challenging cases, examining therapeutic recordings (with client consent), exploring ethical dilemmas, and receiving feedback on your developing therapeutic skills. Quality supervision is invaluable to your growth as a therapist.
Examination Requirements
After completing your education and clinical training, you must pass a national examination to demonstrate your competency as a marriage and family therapist.
The National MFT Examination
Georgia requires all LMFT applicants to pass the National Marriage and Family Therapy Examination administered by the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB). This computer-based exam is offered year-round at testing centers throughout Georgia and nationwide.
Exam format:
- 200 multiple-choice questions
- 4 hours to complete
- Covers six major content domains: practice of systemic therapy, theoretical foundations, assessment and treatment planning, collaboration and case management, professional identity and ethics, and scientific foundations
- Tests knowledge of family systems theory, therapeutic techniques, ethical standards, and clinical decision-making
When to take the exam: You must receive approval from the Georgia Composite Board before you're eligible to register for the national AMFTRB exam. The board reviews your educational credentials and confirms you meet the requirements to sit for the examination. Most candidates apply for exam approval after completing their master's degree and begin the exam process while accumulating their supervised experience hours. You don't need to finish all 2,500 professional hours before taking the exam, which allows you to complete this requirement while continuing to build your clinical experience.
Exam preparation: The AMFTRB offers study materials including practice exams and content outlines. Many candidates also use study groups, review courses, and commercial prep materials. Taking a structured approach to exam preparation significantly increases your chances of passing on the first attempt.
Pass rates and retaking: The national pass rate for the MFT exam typically ranges from 60-75%. If you don't pass on your first attempt, you can retake the exam after a waiting period. Review your score report carefully to identify areas for additional study.
Georgia State Requirements
Beyond the national exam, Georgia's licensing board reviews your entire application to ensure you meet all state-specific requirements. While Georgia doesn't have a separate state exam, your application review is thorough and includes verification of:
- Academic transcripts showing completed coursework
- Supervised experience documentation
- Supervision hours and supervisor qualifications
- Professional references
- Background check results
- National exam scores
Application Process
Once you've completed your education, clinical experience, supervision, and passed the national exam, you're ready to apply for Georgia LMFT licensure.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
- Create an online account: Visit the Georgia Secretary of State's licensing portal and create an account for the Composite Board
- Complete the application: Fill out the LMFT licensure application thoroughly, ensuring all information is accurate and complete
- Submit official transcripts: Request official transcripts from all graduate institutions sent directly to the board
- Document supervised experience: Submit detailed logs of your 2,500 professional hours (including verification of 1,000+ direct client contact hours) and 200 supervision hours using the board's required forms
- Provide supervisor verification: Your supervisor(s) must complete verification forms confirming your professional training and supervision
- Obtain board approval for examination: The board reviews your credentials and, if approved, provides authorization to register for the AMFTRB exam
- Take and pass the national exam: Register for and pass the AMFTRB national MFT examination
- Submit exam scores: Request your official AMFTRB exam scores be sent to the Georgia board
- Undergo background check: Complete fingerprinting and background check through the Georgia Bureau of Investigation
- Submit professional references: Provide references from supervisors or colleagues who can attest to your professional competence
- Pay application fee: Submit the required application and licensure fees
- Wait for board review: The board typically reviews applications within 4-8 weeks, though timelines can vary
Processing Time
Once you submit a complete application, the Georgia Composite Board estimates a processing time of approximately 4-6 weeks for initial review. However, actual processing times can vary significantly based on application volume, board meeting schedules, and completeness of your submission. Some applicants experience delays of 8-12 weeks or longer, particularly during peak application periods.
Incomplete applications or missing documentation will significantly delay the process. The board may also request additional information, clarification, or supplemental documentation, which can extend the timeline by several weeks.
Pro tip: Submit your application as soon as you complete all requirements. Don't wait until you need your license to start working. Many employers require active licensure before extending job offers. Build in extra time for potential delays, especially if you have a specific employment start date.
License Renewal and Continuing Education
Georgia LMFT licenses must be renewed every two years. Renewal requirements include:
- 40 hours of continuing education every two years
- At least 6 of these hours must be in ethics
- Renewal fee payment
- Confirmation that you remain in good standing with no disciplinary actions
Staying current with continuing education keeps your skills sharp and ensures you're providing the highest quality care to Georgia families.
Costs and Investment
Understanding the financial investment required for LMFT licensure helps you plan your educational and career path realistically.
Education Costs
Master's degree programs: Tuition for MFT master's programs in Georgia varies significantly:
- Public universities (in-state): $25,000-$45,000 for the entire program
- Public universities (out-of-state): $50,000-$80,000
- Private universities: $40,000-$100,000+
- Online programs: $30,000-$60,000 (often more affordable than on-campus options)
Additional costs include textbooks ($1,500-$3,000 over two years), technology fees, student fees, and living expenses during your program.
Licensure-Related Costs
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| National MFT Exam | $350-$400 | Fee set by AMFTRB; includes exam administration |
| Georgia Application Fee | $150-$300 | Initial licensure application processing |
| Background Check | $50-$75 | Fingerprinting and GBI check |
| Transcript Fees | $20-$50 | Per institution; official copies required |
| Initial License Fee | $100-$200 | Two-year license period |
| Professional Liability Insurance | $300-$800/year | Required for practice; costs vary by coverage |
Financial Aid and Support
Many students fund their MFT education through:
- Federal student loans and grants (FAFSA)
- Graduate assistantships at universities
- Scholarships from professional associations like AAMFT
- Employer tuition reimbursement programs
- Income from practicum sites (some offer paid positions)
The return on investment for LMFT licensure is strong, with median salaries in Georgia allowing most graduates to manage education debt while building rewarding careers.
Timeline to Licensure
Understanding the realistic timeline from starting your education to earning your LMFT license helps you plan your career transition effectively.
Complete Timeline Breakdown
| Phase | Duration | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Degree | 4 years | Complete bachelor's degree (psychology, social work, or related field recommended) |
| Master's Program | 2-3 years | Complete MFT or related master's degree; includes practicum/internship |
| Supervised Experience | 2-3 years | Accumulate 2,500 clinical hours under supervision (often overlaps with final year of master's) |
| National Exam | 3-6 months | Study for and pass AMFTRB exam (can be done during supervised experience) |
| Application Processing | 2-3 months | Submit application, complete background check, await board approval |
| Total Timeline | 6-8 years | From starting undergraduate to receiving LMFT license |
Accelerated Pathways
Some students complete the process more quickly through:
- Accelerated master's programs: Some schools offer 18-month intensive programs
- Full-time clinical work: Working 40+ hours per week during supervised experience can reduce this phase to 18-24 months
- Combined programs: Some universities offer combined bachelor's/master's programs reducing overall time by 1-2 years
However, remember that rushing through your clinical training means less time to develop your therapeutic skills. Most successful MFTs emphasize the value of taking adequate time to build a strong clinical foundation.
Career Outlook and Salary Data in Georgia
Marriage and family therapy offers strong earning potential and excellent job prospects in Georgia, particularly as mental health awareness continues to grow and more families seek professional support.
Georgia LMFT Salaries (2024 Data)
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2024 Occupational Employment Statistics, marriage and family therapists in Georgia earn competitive salaries, though slightly below the national average:
| Percentile | Georgia Annual Salary | National Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $28,910 | $42,610 |
| 25th Percentile | $52,900 | $48,600 |
| Median (50th) | $63,290 | $63,780 |
| Mean (Average) | $67,960 | $72,720 |
| 75th Percentile | $76,970 | $85,020 |
| 90th Percentile | $98,100 | $111,610 |
Factors Affecting LMFT Salaries in Georgia
Geographic location: MFTs in Georgia's metropolitan areas typically earn higher salaries:
- Atlanta metro area: Highest earning potential due to larger population and more private practice opportunities
- Augusta and Savannah: Moderate to high earning potential
- Columbus and Macon: Mid-range salaries
- Rural areas: Lower salaries but also lower cost of living and potentially less competition
Practice setting:
- Private practice: Highest income potential ($70,000-$120,000+), but requires business management skills and client building
- Hospitals and medical centers: $55,000-$75,000, with benefits
- Community mental health centers: $45,000-$60,000, focus on underserved populations
- Employee assistance programs: $60,000-$80,000
- School-based settings: $50,000-$65,000, often with summers off
Experience level: New LMFTs in Georgia typically start at $45,000-$55,000, while experienced therapists with established practices can earn $80,000-$120,000 or more annually.
Specializations that command higher fees:
- Couples therapy intensive retreat programs
- Infidelity recovery specialists
- Gottman Method Certified Therapists
- Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) specialists
- Family business counseling
- Blended family specialists
Employment Growth and Job Outlook
The job outlook for marriage and family therapists nationwide is exceptionally strong. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of marriage and family therapists is projected to grow 14% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Why demand is growing:
- Reduced stigma around mental health treatment
- Insurance coverage expansion for mental health services
- Growing recognition that relationship health impacts overall wellbeing
- Increasing rates of divorce and blended families needing support
- Demand for family-based approaches to treating substance abuse and mental illness
- Georgia's population growth creating need for more mental health providers
Top Employers in Georgia
LMFTs in Georgia find employment with:
- Healthcare systems: Emory Healthcare, Piedmont Healthcare, WellStar Health System, Augusta University Health
- Behavioral health organizations: Skyland Trail, Peachford Hospital, Ridgeview Institute
- Community mental health centers: Georgia DBHDD-funded centers throughout the state
- Private practice: Solo practices or group practices specializing in couples and family therapy
- Military and VA facilities: Fort Benning, Robins Air Force Base, Atlanta VA Medical Center
- Universities: Counseling centers at Georgia universities and colleges
Many LMFTs in Georgia start in agency or hospital settings to build experience and clinical skills before transitioning to private practice, where income potential is highest but so are business responsibilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become an LMFT in Georgia?
The complete timeline from starting your undergraduate degree to earning your LMFT license typically takes 6-8 years. This includes 4 years for a bachelor's degree, 2-3 years for a master's program, and 2-3 years of supervised clinical experience (which can partially overlap with your master's program). Some students complete the process more quickly through accelerated programs or full-time clinical work.
Can I practice as a marriage and family therapist in Georgia without full licensure?
No, Georgia law requires full LMFT licensure to practice independently as a marriage and family therapist or to use the title "Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist." However, you can work under qualified supervision while accumulating your required 2,500 professional hours before becoming fully licensed. This supervised work is typically done under titles like "MFT Associate," "Registered MFT Intern," or similar designations, depending on your employer. During this pre-licensure period, you'll gain the 1,000 hours of direct client contact and additional professional experience needed for licensure.
Do I need a degree specifically in MFT, or can I use a counseling or social work degree?
Georgia accepts both MFT-specific master's degrees and related degrees in fields like professional counseling, clinical social work, applied psychology, or pastoral counseling. However, if you complete a related degree rather than an MFT-specific program, you must complete additional coursework including three clinical content courses (or two courses plus a 500-hour practicum) plus five required MFT-specific courses in family therapy, family studies, and ethics.
How much does the national MFT exam cost, and when should I take it?
The AMFTRB national MFT exam costs approximately $350-$400. You must first receive approval from the Georgia Composite Board to sit for the exam. Most candidates apply for exam approval after completing their master's degree and take the exam during their supervised experience period. You don't need to finish all 2,500 professional hours before taking the exam, which allows you to complete this examination requirement while continuing to build your clinical experience. Many candidates take the exam 1-2 years into their post-graduate supervised work.
What's the difference between an LMFT and an LPC in Georgia?
While both are licensed mental health professionals, Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) in Georgia typically focus on individual mental health treatment, while LMFTs specialize in treating individuals, couples, and families from a relational and family systems perspective. LMFTs are specifically trained in couples therapy and family therapy approaches. The education and licensing paths are similar but have different coursework and supervision requirements reflecting these different therapeutic focuses.
Can I get licensed in Georgia with a degree from an online program?
Yes, Georgia accepts degrees from accredited online programs as long as they meet all educational requirements. The program must be regionally accredited, and if it's an MFT program, COAMFTE accreditation is highly recommended. Many working professionals successfully complete online MFT programs while maintaining employment, then complete their in-person supervised clinical hours in Georgia after graduation.
What happens if I move to another state after getting licensed in Georgia?
If you become licensed in another state, you'll need to apply for licensure by endorsement (also called reciprocity) in that state. Requirements vary by state, but most accept Georgia's LMFT license if you've passed the national AMFTRB exam and met supervised experience requirements. Having a COAMFTE-accredited degree significantly simplifies interstate licensure. Some states have additional requirements like state-specific jurisprudence exams or extra supervision hours.
Do I need to carry professional liability insurance as an LMFT in Georgia?
While not legally required by the state, professional liability insurance is strongly recommended and often required by employers. If you open a private practice, malpractice insurance is essential to protect yourself from potential lawsuits. Most insurance policies for LMFTs cost $300-$800 annually depending on coverage limits and whether you practice individually or in a group setting.
Can I specialize in a specific area of marriage and family therapy?
Yes, many LMFTs in Georgia develop specializations through additional training and certification. Popular specializations include Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), trauma-focused family therapy, sex therapy, addiction and family recovery, and working with specific populations like military families or blended families. These specializations can increase your earning potential and help you attract specific client populations.
How do I find a qualified supervisor for my clinical hours in Georgia?
You can find approved supervisors through several methods: contact the Georgia Composite Board for a list of approved supervisors, reach out to AAMFT-Georgia chapter members, contact local mental health agencies and private practices that hire pre-licensed clinicians, or connect with your graduate program's alumni network. Many employers who hire pre-licensed MFTs provide on-site supervision as part of employment. Be sure to verify your supervisor meets Georgia's qualification requirements before beginning supervised hours.
Key Takeaways
Essential Points for Becoming an LMFT in Georgia
- Education first: You need a master's degree in marriage and family therapy or a related field with additional MFT-specific coursework (five required courses plus clinical content)
- Substantial professional training required: Georgia requires 2,500 hours of supervised professional experience, with at least 1,000 hours being direct client contact, completed over 2-5 years
- Comprehensive supervision needed: You must complete 200 hours of clinical supervision, with at least 100 hours from a board-approved supervisor and at least 100 hours in individual (one-on-one) format
- Board approval required for exam: You must receive Georgia Composite Board approval before you're eligible to take the AMFTRB national MFT examination demonstrating competency in family systems theory, therapeutic techniques, ethics, and clinical practice
- Realistic timeline: Expect 6-8 years total from starting undergraduate education to receiving your LMFT license, including all education and professional experience requirements
- Strong earning potential: Georgia LMFTs earn a median salary of $63,290 (2024 data), with experienced therapists in private practice earning $80,000-$120,000+ annually
- Excellent job growth: Employment of marriage and family therapists is projected to grow 14% through 2033, much faster than average for all occupations, driven by increasing mental health awareness and reduced treatment stigma
Ready to Start Your Career as a Marriage and Family Therapist in Georgia?
Becoming a licensed marriage and family therapist in Georgia requires significant education, clinical training, and dedication, but the rewards of helping couples and families build healthier relationships make this career path deeply fulfilling. With strong job growth, competitive salaries, and the flexibility to work in diverse settings or establish your own practice, Georgia offers excellent opportunities for aspiring MFTs.
Your first step is choosing the right master's program that fits your learning style, schedule, and career goals. Whether you pursue a traditional on-campus program or an online degree that allows you to continue working, ensuring your program meets Georgia's educational requirements sets you up for licensing success.
Start exploring accredited MFT programs accepting Georgia students today. The families in your community are waiting for a skilled, compassionate therapist like you to help them navigate life's challenges and build stronger connections.
Research Additional Mental Health Licensing Options in Georgia
- How to Become a Psychologist in Georgia
- How to Become a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia
- Georgia Social Work Licensing Process
- Learn More About Marriage and Family Therapist Careers
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job growth projections for Marriage & Family Therapists are based on state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed October 2025.
