How to Become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Idaho (2025)
To become a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) in Idaho, you'll need a board-approved master's or doctoral degree in marriage and family therapy (COAMFTE or CACREP accreditation is preferred but not legally required), complete 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience (including 2,000 hours of direct client contact, with 1,000 of those hours involving couples or families), and pass the AMFTRB national examination. The entire process typically takes 5-7 years, and MFTs nationally earn a median salary of $63,780 as of 2024.
From depression and anxiety to marital conflict and parent-child struggles, marriage and family therapists are licensed mental health professionals who provide solution-based therapy to individuals, couples, and families. MFTs address a wide range of mental health concerns using a systemic approach that considers how relationships and family dynamics influence individual well-being.
In Idaho, marriage and family therapists work in diverse settings throughout the state. You'll find MFTs lending their expertise at major health systems, such as Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center in Idaho Falls; regional mental health centers, like All Seasons Mental Health in Nampa; governmental agencies, like the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare in Boise; and in private practices across communities from Coeur d'Alene to Twin Falls.
If you're considering a career as a licensed marriage and family therapist in Idaho, understanding the state's specific education and licensing requirements is your first step. This comprehensive guide walks you through every phase of becoming an LMFT in Idaho, from choosing the right graduate program to maintaining your license.
Table of Contents
- Step 1: Complete Your Graduate Education
- Step 2: Complete Supervised Clinical Experience
- Step 3: Apply for Licensure with Idaho Board
- Step 4: Pass the National MFT Examination
- Step 5: Maintain Your Idaho LMFT License
- Idaho MFT Salary and Job Outlook
- Timeline and Costs: Your Path to Idaho LMFT
- Alternative Paths and Related Careers
- Frequently Asked Questions
Step 1: Complete Your Graduate Education
Your path to becoming a marriage and family therapist in Idaho begins with earning a graduate degree that meets state board requirements. Idaho law requires you to complete either a master's or doctoral degree in marriage and family therapy from a program approved by the Idaho Licensing Board of Professional Counselors and Marriage and Family Therapists.
While Idaho doesn't mandate specialty accreditation by law, choosing a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE) or the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) ensures your education meets rigorous national curriculum standards. These accredited programs are specifically designed to prepare you for state licensure and professional practice, streamlining your path to becoming licensed.
Your graduate coursework will cover essential topics, including:
- Human development across the lifespan
- Marriage and family studies and systems theory
- Assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning for mental health disorders
- Various therapeutic modalities and interventions
- Professional ethics and legal issues in therapy
- Multicultural counseling and diversity competence
- Clinical practicum and supervised fieldwork
Most master's programs in marriage and family therapy take two to three years to complete when attending full-time. Programs typically require between 48 and 60 credit hours, encompassing both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training through practicum experiences.
If your professional life or geographical location makes attending traditional on-campus classes challenging, many accredited MFT programs now offer hybrid or fully online formats. These programs combine the academic rigor of traditional education with the flexibility of distance learning, making an MFT career accessible even if you're working full-time or living in rural areas of Idaho. Keep in mind that even online programs will require some in-person components for clinical training and supervision.
Learn more about Idaho MFT degrees.
Alternative Path: If you already hold a master's degree or higher in a related field, such as psychology, social work, psychiatric nursing, or ministry, Idaho offers a non-standard route to licensure. You can complete a post-graduate training program specifically in marriage and family therapy to meet the educational requirements. Contact the Idaho board directly to discuss your specific situation and determine eligibility.
Step 2: Complete Supervised Clinical Experience
After earning your graduate degree, you'll need to complete substantial supervised clinical experience before you can apply for full licensure in Idaho. This hands-on training is where you'll develop and refine the practical skills that make you an effective therapist.
Idaho requires a minimum of 3,000 hours of supervised experience. These hours must include specific components that ensure you're gaining comprehensive clinical training:
| Requirement | Hours Required | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Client Contact | 2,000 hours minimum | Face-to-face therapy sessions with clients |
| Couples/Family Work | 1,000 hours minimum | Must be relational work with couples or families (part of the 2,000 direct hours) |
| Total Supervised Hours | 3,000 hours minimum | Includes direct contact plus indirect activities like documentation, case consultation, and supervision |
The remaining 1,000 hours (beyond direct client contact) can include activities like writing treatment plans, case documentation, attending case conferences, receiving supervision, and other professional development activities related to your clinical work.
Finding an Approved Supervisor: Your clinical supervisor must be a licensed mental health professional approved by the Idaho board. Most supervisees work with an LMFT, but licensed psychologists and clinical social workers may also provide supervision in some cases. Your supervisor will guide your clinical development, review your cases, and verify your hours when you apply for licensure.
Supervision itself is also regulated. You'll need regular supervision sessions throughout your training period. The Idaho board specifies minimum supervision requirements based on the number of client contact hours you're accumulating. Many supervisees meet with their supervisor on a weekly or biweekly basis for individual or group supervision.
Tracking Your Hours: Begin tracking your supervised hours from the start using a detailed log. Document the date, type of activity, client demographics (maintaining confidentiality), and supervisor verification. Accurate record-keeping now will make your licensure application much smoother later.
Most people complete their supervised hours in two to three years, though this timeline varies based on whether you're working full-time or part-time. You can begin accumulating hours during your graduate program if your school's practicum meets Idaho's requirements, which can shorten your overall timeline to licensure.
Step 3: Apply for Licensure with Idaho Board
Once you've completed your education and supervised experience, you're ready to apply for licensure through the Idaho Licensing Board of Professional Counselors and Marriage and Family Therapists. This state board oversees MFT licensure and ensures all applicants meet Idaho's professional standards.
Your application package will need to include:
- Official transcripts from your graduate program sent directly to the board
- Verification of your supervised clinical experience with detailed hour logs
- Supervisor documentation forms completed and signed by your clinical supervisor(s)
- Completed application form with all required information
- Application fee of $120
- Background check results (the board will provide instructions for this process)
Submit your application well in advance of your planned national exam date, as the board requires sufficient time to review your materials and approve you to take the examination. The review process typically takes several weeks; however, timing can vary depending on the board's workload and whether your application is complete.
Make sure every document is accurate and complete before submission. Missing information or unsigned forms will delay the processing of your application. The Idaho board staff can answer questions if you're unsure about any requirement, so don't hesitate to contact them directly at the board office in Boise.
Once the board reviews and approves your application materials, they'll authorize you to register for the national MFT examination. You can't take the exam until you receive this approval, so plan accordingly.
Step 4: Pass the National MFT Examination
The final hurdle before receiving your Idaho LMFT license is passing the national examination developed by the Association of Marital & Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB). This standardized test ensures that MFTs across the country meet consistent professional competency standards.
The AMFTRB exam covers the core knowledge areas essential to the practice of marriage and family therapy. You'll be tested on topics including family systems theory, human development, assessment and diagnosis, treatment planning and interventions, professional ethics and legal issues, and research and program evaluation. The exam is administered in a multiple-choice format via computer at testing centers.
After the Idaho board approves your application and authorizes you to test, you'll register directly with AMFTRB through their website. You'll select a testing date and location that works for your schedule. Testing centers are available throughout Idaho and neighboring states, so you can usually find a convenient option.
Preparing for the exam is important. While your graduate education has provided the knowledge base you need, many candidates find that focused exam preparation helps them perform their best. Consider using AMFTRB's official study materials, joining a study group with other MFT candidates, or taking a preparation course. Allow yourself sufficient time to review the material before your test date, rather than cramming at the last minute.
When you pass the exam, AMFTRB reports your results directly to the Idaho board. The board will then issue your license to practice marriage and family therapy in Idaho. You'll receive official notification and can begin practicing as a fully licensed MFT.
Step 5: Maintain Your Idaho LMFT License
Earning your LMFT license isn't the end of your professional development. Idaho requires licensed marriage and family therapists to complete continuing education to maintain their licenses and stay current with advances in the field.
Idaho LMFTs must complete at least 20 continuing education units (CEUs) every year. These CEUs ensure that you keep your knowledge and skills up to date throughout your career. Of these 20 annual CEUs, at least 3 units must focus specifically on law and ethics topics relevant to mental health practice in Idaho.
You can earn CEUs through various activities including:
- Workshops and conferences offered by professional associations
- Online courses from approved providers
- College or university courses related to therapy practice
- Presentations you give at professional conferences
- Certain professional reading and research activities
The Idaho board maintains a list of approved continuing education providers, though they'll also consider courses from other sources if they meet the board's quality standards. Keep certificates of completion for all your continuing education activities, as you may need to provide documentation during license renewal.
You'll renew your Idaho LMFT license according to the board's schedule. The renewal process includes submitting verification that you've completed your required CEUs, paying the renewal fee, and confirming that you haven't had any ethical violations or disciplinary actions. Mark your renewal deadline on your calendar well in advance to avoid letting your license lapse.
Idaho MFT Salary and Job Outlook (2025)
Marriage and family therapists in Idaho enjoy strong career prospects and competitive salaries. Understanding the financial outlook for this career can help you plan your educational investment and future. While Idaho-specific salary data for MFTs is not available from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, national salary data provides a helpful benchmark for expectations.
As of May 2024, marriage and family therapists nationally earned the following annual salaries according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:
| Percentile | Annual Salary | What This Means |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $42,610 | Entry-level or part-time positions |
| 25th Percentile | $48,600 | Early career professionals |
| Median (50th) | $63,780 | Typical mid-career salary |
| 75th Percentile | $85,020 | Experienced practitioners |
| 90th Percentile | $111,610 | Top earners with specialization or private practice |
Your actual salary as an Idaho MFT will depend on several factors. Experience matters significantly - therapists with 10+ years in practice typically earn substantially more than those just starting out. Your work setting also influences compensation. MFTs in private practice often earn more than those in community mental health centers, though they also bear more business expenses. Geographic location within Idaho plays a role, too, with urban areas like Boise and Idaho Falls generally offering higher salaries than rural communities.
The job outlook for Idaho MFTs is exceptionally strong. According to Idaho Department of Labor projections, the number of marriage and family therapist positions in Idaho is projected to grow by 25% between 2020 and 2030. This growth rate far outpaces the national projected growth of 14% for the same profession, making Idaho one of the better states for MFT career opportunities.
During the ten-year period ending in 2030, Idaho is expected to have approximately 70 annual job openings for marriage and family therapists. These openings result from a combination of new job creation, retirements, and natural workforce turnover. The strong demand reflects Idaho's growing population and increasing recognition of the importance of mental health services.
Timeline and Costs: Your Path to Idaho LMFT
Understanding the full timeline and financial investment required to become an LMFT in Idaho helps you plan your career transition realistically.
Complete Timeline from Start to Licensure:
| Phase | Duration | Key Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Graduate Education | 2-3 years | Complete master's or doctoral program in MFT |
| Supervised Clinical Hours | 2-3 years | Accumulate 3,000 hours including 2,000 direct client contact |
| Application & Exam | 2-4 months | Submit application, get board approval, take and pass AMFTRB exam |
| Total Timeline | 5-7 years | From starting graduate school to full licensure |
You can potentially shorten this timeline if you complete some supervised hours during your graduate program's practicum experiences. Some students also choose to work full-time during their supervised hours phase, which can extend that portion of the timeline but provides income while you're building experience.
Cost Considerations:
The financial investment varies significantly based on your choices. Graduate program tuition ranges widely depending on whether you attend a public or private institution, in-state or out-of-state, and whether you choose an online or on-campus format. In-state public universities typically cost less than private institutions.
Beyond tuition, you'll need to budget for the Idaho board application fee of $120 and the AMFTRB examination fee. Factor in costs for required textbooks, liability insurance during your supervised hours phase, and continuing education after licensure. If you're working in a supervised position that pays below market rate while accumulating hours, consider that opportunity cost in your planning.
Many MFT students finance their education through a combination of federal student loans, scholarships, graduate assistantships, and part-time work. Some employers in mental health settings offer supervision and reduced-cost employment to graduate students, which can help offset costs while you're gaining required hours.
Alternative Paths and Related Careers in Idaho
Marriage and family therapy is one of several rewarding mental health career paths available in Idaho. Understanding how MFT compares to related professions can help you choose the best fit for your interests and goals. If you're exploring what MFTs actually do day-to-day, learning about various work settings and career paths can help you decide if this profession aligns with your interests.
If you already hold a master's or doctoral degree in psychology, social work, psychiatric nursing, ministry, or another related field, you may qualify for Idaho MFT licensure through a non-standard route. This pathway requires completing post-graduate training specifically in marriage and family therapy to supplement your existing education. Contact the Idaho Licensing Board directly to discuss your credentials and determine what additional training you'd need.
Licensed Psychologist: In Idaho, psychologists must earn a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD), complete supervised experience, and pass national and state examinations. Clinical and counseling psychologists in Idaho earn higher median salaries than MFTs, with the national median at approximately $96,100 as of 2024. The 75th to 90th percentile for psychologists ranges significantly higher. Becoming a psychologist requires more education (typically 5-7 years of graduate school) but offers broader diagnostic and assessment privileges. If you're interested in psychological testing, neuropsychology, or research, psychology may be a better path for you.
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC): LPCs in Idaho also require a master's degree, but their training focuses more broadly on mental health counseling rather than specifically on systemic and relational therapy. Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in Idaho earn a national median of approximately $53,830 as of 2024, with experienced counselors in the 75th to 90th percentile earning between $61,270 and $79,470. The education timeline is similar to MFT (master's degree plus supervised hours), but the clinical focus differs. LPCs often work more with individual clients on various mental health concerns, while MFTs specialize in relational and family issues.
Clinical Social Worker: Licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) earn a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree and complete supervised clinical hours. Mental health and substance abuse social workers nationally earn a median of approximately $58,320 as of 2024, with the 75th to 90th percentile earning between $68,030 and $83,080. Child, family, and school social workers earn a median annual salary of approximately $56,180, with experienced professionals in the 75th to 90th percentile earning between $64,480 and $81,270. Social work education encompasses broader training in case management, community resources, and systems navigation, in addition to therapy skills. If you're drawn to connecting clients with resources and working in medical or school settings, social work might appeal to you.
Choosing between these paths depends on your specific interests. If you're passionate about relationships, family dynamics, and systemic approaches to mental health, MFT is likely your best fit. If you want to conduct psychological testing or research, consider a career in psychology. If you prefer working with individuals on various mental health concerns, explore professional counseling. If you're interested in case management and connecting people with community resources, consider a career in social work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I practice therapy while completing my supervised hours?
Yes, you can provide therapy services during your supervised hours phase, but you'll typically work under titles like "MFT Associate," "Therapist in Training," or similar designations that indicate you're not yet fully licensed. You must always work under the supervision of a qualified licensed professional, and clients must be informed of your supervisory status. Many community mental health centers, group practices, and hospitals employ therapists completing their supervised hours.
Does Idaho offer reciprocity for out-of-state MFT licenses?
Idaho does not offer automatic reciprocity for out-of-state MFT licenses. Instead, the state evaluates licenses from other states on a case-by-case basis through an endorsement process. If you're already licensed as an MFT in another state, contact the Idaho Licensing Board to discuss your specific situation. They'll review your education, supervised experience, and examination credentials to determine what, if any, additional requirements you need to meet for Idaho licensure. Having a license from a state with similar or higher standards typically makes the endorsement process smoother. If you're considering moving to Idaho from another state or might relocate in the future, you can compare licensing requirements across all states to understand how processes differ.
What's the difference between an LMFT and an LPC in Idaho?
While both LMFTs and Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) provide therapy services, their training and approach differ. MFTs receive specialized education in family systems theory and relational therapy, focusing on how family dynamics and relationships affect individual well-being. LPCs receive broader training in individual mental health counseling across various theoretical orientations. MFTs are specifically trained to work with couples and families, although they can also provide individual therapy. Some insurance panels and employers may prefer one credential over the other for certain positions.
How long does the Idaho board application process take?
The application review process typically takes several weeks once you submit a complete application with all required documentation. Incomplete applications take longer as the board will request missing materials. Plan to submit your application at least 2-3 months before you hope to take the national exam, allowing sufficient time for review and any follow-up the board may require. The board processes applications in the order they are received, so submitting earlier means faster approval.
Can I complete my supervised hours part-time?
Yes, you can accumulate supervised hours on a part-time basis. This approach extends your overall timeline to licensure but allows you to maintain other employment or balance family responsibilities. Some supervisees complete hours at 20 hours per week or less. The key is maintaining consistent supervision throughout the process and ensuring your supervisor can adequately oversee your work despite the part-time schedule. Working part-time might mean it takes 3-5 years to accumulate 3,000 hours, rather than the usual 2-3 years.
What if my graduate program isn't COAMFTE or CACREP accredited?
Idaho doesn't absolutely require COAMFTE or CACREP accreditation by law, but the board must approve your program. If your degree is from a non-accredited program, the board will review your transcripts to ensure your coursework covered all required content areas for MFT practice. You may need to provide detailed course descriptions and syllabi. Some applicants from non-accredited programs are approved without issues, while others may need to complete additional coursework. Contact the board early in your education to verify your program meets Idaho's standards.
Are there temporary or provisional licenses available in Idaho?
Idaho's licensing structure emphasizes the supervised hours phase leading to full licensure, rather than offering formal provisional licenses. During your supervised hours, you'll work under supervision with a title that indicates you're in training. Once you complete all requirements and pass the AMFTRB exam, you receive full LMFT licensure. Some states offer provisional or associate licenses with specific scopes of practice, but Idaho's approach centers on completing all requirements before receiving your license.
What specializations can Idaho MFTs pursue after licensure?
After becoming licensed, many Idaho MFTs pursue additional training in specialized areas. Common specializations include trauma and PTSD treatment, substance abuse and addiction counseling, child and adolescent therapy, sex therapy, discernment counseling for couples considering divorce, or specific treatment modalities like Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) or Gottman Method couples therapy. These specializations typically involve post-graduate training, workshops, and sometimes separate certifications from professional organizations. Specializing can increase your marketability and allow you to work with specific populations that interest you.
Key Takeaways
- Education Requirement: You'll need a master's or doctoral degree from a COAMFTE or CACREP-accredited program (or board-approved equivalent), typically taking 2-3 years to complete.
- Supervised Experience: Idaho requires 3,000 supervised clinical hours, including 2,000 hours of direct client contact with at least 1,000 hours working with couples or families, typically completed in 2-3 years.
- Examination: You must pass the AMFTRB national examination after the Idaho board approves your application.
- Timeline to Licensure: Expect 5-7 years total from starting graduate school to receiving your Idaho LMFT license.
- Strong Career Outlook: Idaho's MFT jobs are projected to grow by 25% between 2020 and 2030, far exceeding the 14% national growth rate, with approximately 70 annual job openings.
- Competitive Salaries: The national median salary for MFTs is $63,780, with experienced practitioners earning $85,020-$111,610 annually.
- Continuing Education: Maintain your license by completing 20 CEUs annually, including 3 units in law and ethics.
Ready to Start Your MFT Career in Idaho?
Take the first step toward becoming a licensed marriage and family therapist by exploring accredited graduate programs accepting Idaho students. Quality education sets the foundation for your entire career.
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job growth projections for Clinical and Counseling Psychologists, Industrial-Organizational Psychologists, School Psychologists, Psychologists-All Other; Psychiatric Techs; Psychiatrists; Substance Abuse, Behavioral Health and Mental Health Counselors; Marriage & Family Therapists; and Social Workers are based on state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed October 2025.
Schools with MFT Degree Programs Accepting Students from Idaho
