How to Become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois
To become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in Illinois, you need a COAMFTE-accredited master's or doctoral degree in marriage and family therapy, 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience (including 1,000 hours of direct client contact), and must pass the AMFTRB national examination. The complete process typically takes 8-10 years and leads to a median salary of $60,140 in Illinois (May 2024 BLS data).
Marriage and family therapy represents one of the most rewarding careers in mental health, focusing on helping individuals, couples, and families navigate relationship challenges and emotional disorders. In Illinois, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs) work across diverse settings, from major hospital systems like Rush University Medical Center in Chicago to community mental health centers and private practices throughout the state.
The path to becoming an LMFT in Illinois involves rigorous graduate education, extensive supervised clinical training, and successful completion of a national licensing examination. This comprehensive guide outlines every step of the journey, from selecting your undergraduate major through obtaining full licensure, along with current salary data, career outlook information, and answers to frequently asked questions about the profession.
Whether you're a psychology undergraduate exploring career options, a working professional considering a career change, or an out-of-state therapist planning to practice in Illinois, understanding the specific requirements and timeline will help you make informed decisions about your professional future.
Table of Contents
Education Requirements for Illinois LMFTs
The educational pathway to becoming a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois begins with earning your bachelor's degree and progresses through graduate-level training in marriage and family therapy.
Bachelor's Degree Foundation
Your undergraduate education provides the foundation for graduate studies in marriage and family therapy. While Illinois doesn't mandate a specific undergraduate major, the following fields prepare you well for graduate-level coursework:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Human Development
- Social Work
- Counseling
- Family Studies
Strong performance in undergraduate courses related to human behavior, research methods, and statistics will strengthen your graduate school applications. Many successful MFT candidates also gain relevant experience through internships at mental health agencies, crisis hotlines, or family services organizations during their undergraduate years.
Graduate Degree Requirements
To earn licensure as an LMFT in Illinois, you must complete a master's or doctorate degree program in marriage and family therapy. The Illinois Marriage and Family Therapy Licensing and Disciplinary Board recognizes two primary pathways:
Option 1: COAMFTE-Accredited Programs
The Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE) provides specialized accreditation for MFT programs. Degrees from COAMFTE-accredited institutions automatically meet Illinois educational requirements. These programs typically include:
- 60+ semester hours of graduate coursework
- Core courses in marriage and family therapy theory
- Human development and family systems
- Research methods and ethics
- Supervised clinical practicum experiences
- Specialized coursework in diverse populations
Option 2: Equivalent MFT Curriculum
If your graduate program isn't COAMFTE-accredited, it must be approved directly by the Illinois Marriage and Family Therapy Licensing and Disciplinary Board or hold regional institutional accreditation with a curriculum equivalent to COAMFTE standards. This pathway requires documentation that your program covered all required content areas.
Alternative Pathways
Illinois recognizes an additional route for individuals who already hold graduate degrees in related fields. If you have a master's or doctorate in psychology, social work, psychiatric nursing, or ministry, you can become eligible for LMFT licensure by completing a post-graduate training program in marriage and family therapy. This option provides flexibility for career changers with existing mental health credentials.
Online and Hybrid Program Options
Many accredited institutions now offer online MFT degree programs in hybrid or fully online formats, making graduate education more accessible for working professionals. These programs maintain the same rigorous standards as traditional on-campus programs while offering scheduling flexibility. When evaluating online programs, verify COAMFTE accreditation status and confirm that Illinois accepts the program format for licensure purposes.
[xyz-ihs snippet="MFT-Degree-IL"]| Degree Pathway | Duration | Accreditation Requirement | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master's in MFT (COAMFTE) | 2-3 years | COAMFTE accredited | Direct path to licensure |
| Doctoral program in MFT | 4-6 years | COAMFTE or Board-approved | Research or academic careers |
| Related degree + post-grad training | 1-2 years additional | Board-approved program | Career changers with existing credentials |
Supervised Clinical Experience Requirements
After completing your graduate degree, you'll need to accumulate 3,000 hours of supervised clinical work before you can take the licensing examination. This post-graduate experience represents the most substantial time commitment in the licensure process and typically takes 2-3 years to complete.
Hour Requirements Breakdown
Illinois structures the 3,000-hour requirement with specific mandates for different types of clinical work:
Total Supervised Hours: 3,000
Within these 3,000 hours, you must complete:
- 1,000 hours of direct client contact: Face-to-face therapy sessions with individuals, couples, or families
- 350 hours must involve relational therapy: Working with couples or families together (not individual therapy)
- 350 hours with a single client system: Ongoing therapeutic relationship demonstrating continuity of care
- Remaining hours: Can include case documentation, treatment planning, case consultation, and other professional activities
Supervision Requirements
All 3,000 hours must be completed under the supervision of a state-approved supervisor. The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation maintains specific requirements for supervisors:
- Must hold current LMFT licensure in Illinois or equivalent credentials
- Cannot have disciplinary actions against their license
- Must complete supervisor training approved by recognized MFT organizations
- Supervision must occur regularly (typically weekly or biweekly)
Supervision sessions involve case review, discussion of therapeutic techniques, ethical considerations, and professional development. Most supervisors meet with supervisees for 1-2 hours per week to review cases and provide guidance.
Finding an Approved Supervisor
Locating a qualified supervisor is crucial to beginning your post-graduate clinical work. Effective strategies include:
- Contact the Illinois Marriage and Family Therapy Licensing Board: The board maintains lists of approved supervisors
- Network through your graduate program: Many programs maintain relationships with supervisors and can make connections
- Reach out to local mental health agencies: Community mental health centers, hospitals, and group practices often employ supervisors
- Join professional organizations: The Illinois Association for Marriage and Family Therapy connects members with supervision opportunities
- Consider private practice supervisors: Some experienced LMFTs offer supervision specifically for licensure candidates
Timeline and Practical Considerations
Most MFT candidates complete their 3,000 supervision hours over 2-3 years while working in clinical settings. Working full-time in a mental health position, you can typically accumulate 1,200-1,500 countable hours per year. Part-time work extends the timeline proportionally.
During this period, you'll gain experience across various clinical situations, develop your therapeutic approach, and build professional competence under expert guidance. Many supervisees find this intensive period of supervised practice invaluable for developing confidence and clinical skills.
Costs of Supervision
Supervision represents both a learning opportunity and a financial investment. Costs vary depending on your employment situation:
- Agency-employed positions: Many mental health agencies include supervision as part of employment, meaning you don't pay out-of-pocket
- Private supervision arrangements: Expect to pay $75-$150 per supervision session, with weekly or biweekly meetings
- Group supervision: Some supervisors offer group supervision at reduced rates ($40-$75 per session)
Over the course of your 2-3 year supervision period, private supervision costs can range from $8,000 to $20,000, though many candidates offset these costs by working in agencies that provide supervision as part of compensation packages.
The AMFTRB Examination
The final step in becoming a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois is passing the national examination administered by the Association of Marital & Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB).
Exam Overview
The AMFTRB examination tests knowledge and competency across the domains essential to marriage and family therapy practice:
- Practice of Marriage and Family Therapy
- The Therapeutic System
- Therapist's Professional Identity and Role
- Ethical and Legal Issues
The computer-based exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions administered over four hours. The exam uses a scaled scoring system, with passing scores determined by psychometric analysis rather than a fixed percentage.
Application Process
Before taking the AMFTRB exam, you must apply for approval through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). The application process involves:
- Submit application: Complete the LMFT license application through IDFPR
- Pay the application fee: $100 application fee
- Provide documentation: Submit transcripts showing completion of the approved graduate program
- Verify supervision hours: Documentation from your approved supervisor(s) confirming 3,000 hours
- Receive approval: IDFPR reviews your application and determines exam eligibility
- Schedule exam: Upon approval, register directly with AMFTRB to schedule your exam
Exam Preparation
Most candidates spend 2-4 months preparing for the AMFTRB examination. Effective preparation strategies include:
- Review the AMFTRB exam content outline and study guides available on their website
- Take practice exams to familiarize yourself with the question format and timing
- Join study groups with other exam candidates
- Review core MFT theories, therapeutic approaches, and ethical standards
- Focus on areas where you feel less confident
Pass rates for the AMFTRB exam vary, but most well-prepared candidates who have completed comprehensive graduate programs and supervision successfully pass on their first attempt.
After Passing the Exam
Once you successfully pass the AMFTRB examination and IDFPR approves your application, you'll receive your Illinois LMFT license. Your license allows you to practice independently, use the LMFT title, diagnose and treat mental and emotional disorders, and bill insurance for your services.
Timeline and Costs to Become an LMFT in Illinois
Understanding the complete timeline and financial investment helps you plan effectively for your career transition into marriage and family therapy.
Complete Timeline Breakdown
The path from beginning your undergraduate education to obtaining full LMFT licensure typically spans 8-10 years:
| Stage | Duration | Key Activities | Estimated Costs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's Degree | 4 years | Undergraduate education, prerequisites, and relevant internships | $40,000-$100,000 |
| Master's/Doctoral Program | 2-4 years | Graduate coursework, practicum placements, and research | $30,000-$80,000 |
| Supervised Clinical Practice | 2-3 years | 3,000 clinical hours, supervision, skill development | $0-$20,000 (if paying for supervision) |
| Examination & Licensing | 2-4 months | Exam preparation, AMFTRB exam, license application | $400-$800 |
| Total Timeline | 8-10 years | Complete education through independent practice | $70,000-$200,000 |
Cost Considerations and Financial Planning
The total investment in becoming an LMFT varies significantly based on your educational choices and circumstances:
Tuition and Education Costs
- In-state public universities: Lower tuition costs ($30,000-$50,000 for graduate programs)
- Private institutions: Higher tuition ($50,000-$80,000+ for graduate programs)
- Online programs: Often comparable to on-campus options with added flexibility
During the Supervision Period
Many candidates work in paid clinical positions during their supervision period, earning $35,000-$50,000 annually while accumulating hours. This income helps offset supervision costs and supports living expenses during this training phase.
Licensing and Exam Fees
- AMFTRB exam registration: $300
- Illinois license application: $100
- Background checks and additional documentation: $50-$100
Financial Aid and Funding Options
Graduate students can access various funding sources:
- Federal student loans and grants
- Graduate assistantships (research or teaching)
- University scholarships and fellowships
- Loan forgiveness programs for work in underserved areas
- Employer tuition reimbursement (if working while studying)
Illinois LMFT Salary Data
Marriage and family therapists in Illinois earn competitive salaries that reflect their advanced education and specialized training. The current May 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data provides comprehensive salary information for the profession.
Illinois LMFT Salaries by Percentile
| Percentile | Illinois Annual Salary | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry-level) | $50,210 | $42,610 |
| 25th Percentile | $54,340 | $48,600 |
| Median (50th Percentile) | $60,140 | $63,780 |
| 75th Percentile | $71,190 | $85,020 |
| 90th Percentile (Experienced) | $102,850 | $111,610 |
The median annual salary for marriage and family therapists in Illinois stands at $60,140 as of May 2024. Illinois currently employs approximately 840 marriage and family therapists across various settings. The mean annual wage is $66,640, indicating that experienced professionals often earn above the median salary.
Factors Affecting LMFT Salaries
Several factors influence earnings potential for licensed marriage and family therapists in Illinois:
Experience Level
Entry-level LMFTs typically start near the 25th percentile ($54,340) as they build their client base and professional reputation. With 5-10 years of experience, many therapists reach or exceed the median. Highly experienced practitioners with 15+ years in the field often earn in the 75th to 90th percentile range ($71,190-$102,850).
Geographic Location
Metropolitan areas, particularly the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin region, often offer higher salaries due to the increased cost of living and greater demand for mental health services. Rural areas may have lower salary ranges but can offer lower living costs and less competition.
Practice Setting
- Hospital systems and medical centers: Often higher salaries with benefits
- Private practice: Variable income depending on client volume and specialization
- Community mental health agencies: Moderate salaries with strong benefits
- School systems: Competitive salaries with academic calendar schedules
- Government agencies: Structured pay scales with excellent benefits
Specialization Areas
Therapists who specialize in high-demand areas like trauma treatment, couples therapy for specific populations, or evidence-based approaches like Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) may command premium rates.
Comparison to National Averages
Illinois LMFT salaries sit slightly below the national median ($63,780 nationally vs. $60,140 in Illinois), though this varies by experience level. Entry-level positions in Illinois ($50,210) exceed the national 10th percentile ($42,610) by nearly $8,000, suggesting strong opportunities for new graduates. The 90th percentile in Illinois ($102,850) remains competitive with national figures ($111,610).
Career Outlook in Illinois
The employment outlook for marriage and family therapists in Illinois reflects broader national trends toward increased mental health service utilization and growing recognition of relationship and family systems in overall wellbeing.
Job Growth Projections
Employment of marriage and family therapists in Illinois is projected to grow by 7% between 2020 and 2030, consistent with national growth trends for the profession. This growth rate exceeds many other occupational categories and indicates strong, steady demand for MFT services.
During the ten-year period through 2030, Illinois expects approximately 210 annual job openings for marriage and family therapists. These openings result from a combination of:
- New positions created through employment growth
- Retirements of experienced practitioners
- Career transitions to other roles
- Geographic mobility of existing therapists
Factors Driving Demand
Several trends support continued growth in MFT employment:
Increased Mental Health Awareness
Growing recognition of mental health importance and reduced stigma around therapy services leads more individuals and families to seek professional help. The COVID-19 pandemic particularly accelerated acceptance of mental health treatment and teletherapy options.
Insurance Coverage Expansion
Improved mental health parity in insurance coverage makes therapy services more accessible to broader populations. Many insurance plans now cover marriage and family therapy at rates comparable to individual therapy.
Relationship and Family Complexity
Modern families face unique challenges, including blended family dynamics, geographic separation, work-life balance pressures, and digital communication issues. These complexities create ongoing demand for specialized family therapy expertise.
Prevention and Early Intervention
Healthcare systems increasingly recognize the value of preventive mental health services. Marriage and family therapy's focus on systemic issues and prevention aligns with this shift toward early intervention.
Employment Settings in Illinois
Licensed marriage and family therapists in Illinois work across diverse professional environments:
Healthcare Systems
Major hospital networks like Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, Northwestern Medicine, and University of Illinois Hospital employ LMFTs within integrated behavioral health programs. These positions often provide competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration.
Community Mental Health Centers
Organizations like Douglas County Mental Health Center in Tuscola and similar agencies throughout the state hire LMFTs to serve community populations. These positions focus on accessible care for diverse clients.
Private Practice
Many experienced LMFTs establish private practices, either independently or in group settings. Private practice offers flexibility, autonomy, and potential for higher earnings, though it requires business management skills and client development efforts.
Educational Institutions
Schools and universities employ marriage and family therapists to provide counseling services to students and families. These positions often align with academic calendars and offer different work-life balance options.
Government and Social Services
State and local government agencies, including the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, employ LMFTs to support families involved with protective services or seeking social support.
LMFT vs. Other Mental Health Credentials in Illinois
Understanding how LMFT licensure compares to other mental health credentials helps you make informed career decisions and recognize the unique value of marriage and family therapy training.
Comparing Major Mental Health Licenses
| Credential | Education Required | Clinical Hours | Primary Focus | IL Median Salary (2024) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LMFT (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist) | Master's/Doctorate in MFT | 3,000 hours | Couples, families, relationship systems | $60,140 |
| LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) | Master's in Counseling | 3,000 hours | Individual mental health, broad populations | $47,700 |
| LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) | Master's in Social Work (MSW) | 3,000 hours | Social services, case management, therapy | $57,010 |
| Licensed Psychologist | Doctoral degree (PhD/PsyD) | 1,500-2,000 hours | Assessment, diagnosis, therapy | $79,140 |
Unique Aspects of LMFT Training
Marriage and family therapy education emphasizes several distinctive elements:
Systems Theory Foundation
MFT training centers on understanding individuals within their relational contexts. Rather than focusing solely on individual pathology, LMFTs assess how family patterns, communication dynamics, and relationship structures influence individual well-being.
Relational Focus
LMFTs receive specialized training in couples therapy, family therapy, and multi-person therapeutic interventions. This training prepares therapists to work effectively when multiple family members attend sessions together.
Shorter-Term, Solution-Focused Approaches
Marriage and family therapy often emphasizes brief, goal-oriented treatment models designed to create meaningful change efficiently. This approach aligns with modern healthcare's emphasis on effective, time-limited interventions.
Scope of Practice Similarities
All master's-level mental health licenses in Illinois (LMFT, LPC, LCSW) authorize holders to:
- Diagnose mental and emotional disorders
- Provide psychotherapy services
- Bill insurance for services
- Practice independently
- Maintain client records
- Work with diverse age groups and populations
The primary differences lie in training emphasis and theoretical orientation rather than the legal scope of practice.
Choosing Between Credentials
Consider pursuing LMFT licensure if you're particularly interested in:
- Working with couples and families as primary client systems
- Relationship dynamics and communication patterns
- Systems-based understanding of mental health
- Brief, solution-focused therapy approaches
- Specializing in relationship and family issues
Other credentials may be more appropriate if your interests align more closely with individual psychotherapy, social services and case management, or psychological assessment and testing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become an LMFT in Illinois?
The complete timeline from starting your bachelor's degree to obtaining LMFT licensure typically takes 8-10 years. This includes 4 years for your bachelor's degree, 2-3 years for your master's program in marriage and family therapy, 2-3 years completing your 3,000 supervised clinical hours, and several months for exam preparation and licensure processing. Those who already hold bachelor's degrees can complete the process in 4-6 years.
Can I complete my MFT degree online?
Yes, many COAMFTE-accredited programs offer hybrid or online formats that Illinois recognizes for licensure. These programs maintain the same rigorous standards as on-campus programs while providing flexibility for working professionals. When evaluating online programs, verify COAMFTE accreditation status and confirm that the program format meets Illinois requirements. Most online programs require some in-person components for clinical training and supervision.
How much does it cost to become an LMFT in Illinois?
Total costs range from $70,000 to $200,000, depending on your educational choices. This includes undergraduate tuition ($40,000-$100,000), graduate program costs ($30,000-$80,000), supervision fees if you pay privately ($0-$20,000), and examination and licensing fees ($400-$800). Many students use financial aid, scholarships, and assistantships to offset costs. Working in agency settings that provide supervision as part of employment significantly reduces out-of-pocket expenses.
What's the difference between COAMFTE and CACREP accreditation?
COAMFTE (Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education) provides specialized accreditation specifically for marriage and family therapy programs. CACREP (Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs) accredits counseling programs more broadly. For Illinois LMFT licensure, COAMFTE accreditation is the gold standard and automatically meets educational requirements. Some CACREP-accredited counseling programs with marriage and family therapy specializations may qualify, but you'll need Board approval confirming the curriculum meets LMFT standards.
Can I practice while completing my supervision hours?
Yes, most MFT candidates work in clinical positions while accumulating their 3,000 supervision hours. You can provide therapy services under supervision, which is how most candidates complete their hour requirements. You cannot practice independently or call yourself an LMFT until you complete all requirements and receive your license, but supervised clinical practice is expected and encouraged during the training period.
How do I find an approved supervisor in Illinois?
Start by contacting the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, which maintains lists of approved supervisors. Your graduate program's faculty often have connections with supervisors and can make introductions. Join the Illinois Association for Marriage and Family Therapy to network with potential supervisors. Many mental health agencies, hospitals, and group practices employ approved supervisors. You can also search for private practice supervisors who specialize in training licensure candidates.
What's the pass rate for the AMFTRB exam?
The AMFTRB doesn't publish exact pass rates, but most well-prepared candidates who completed comprehensive graduate programs and supervision successfully pass on their first attempt. Thorough preparation using AMFTRB study materials, practice exams, and review of core MFT theories significantly improves your chances. Most candidates spend 2-4 months preparing for the examination.
Do I need to complete 3,000 hours before applying to take the exam?
Yes, Illinois requires completion of all 3,000 supervised clinical hours before you're eligible to take the AMFTRB examination. You must submit documentation from your approved supervisor(s) verifying your hours as part of your license application. The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation reviews this documentation and approves your exam eligibility before you can register with AMFTRB.
Can I transfer my LMFT license from another state to Illinois?
Illinois offers licensure by endorsement for LMFTs licensed in other states. You must meet Illinois educational and supervision requirements, which are generally consistent with other states. Contact the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation for specific endorsement requirements. In most cases, if you hold an active LMFT license in another state and have passed the AMFTRB exam, Illinois will grant licensure by endorsement after reviewing your credentials.
How much do entry-level LMFTs earn in Illinois?
Entry-level marriage and family therapists in Illinois typically earn between $50,210 and $54,340 annually (10th to 25th percentile ranges based on May 2024 BLS data). Your starting salary depends on your practice setting, geographic location, and whether you work full-time. Many new LMFTs start in agency settings or group practices where they build their clinical skills and client base before potentially transitioning to higher-paying positions or private practice.
Where do most LMFTs work in Illinois?
Illinois LMFTs work across diverse settings, including hospital behavioral health departments, community mental health centers, private practices (individual or group), family service agencies, school systems, government social service agencies, and university counseling centers. The Chicago metropolitan area employs the largest concentration of marriage and family therapists, though opportunities exist throughout the state in both urban and rural communities.
How often do I need to renew my Illinois LMFT license?
Illinois LMFT licenses renew every two years. You must complete continuing education requirements during each renewal period to maintain your license in active status. Renewal involves submitting a renewal application through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation and paying the renewal fee. The department sends renewal notices before your expiration date, but you're responsible for ensuring timely renewal.
What continuing education is required for license renewal?
Illinois requires 30 hours of continuing education every two years for LMFT license renewal. These hours must be obtained from Board-approved providers and cover topics relevant to marriage and family therapy practice. Requirements typically include ethics training and may include specific content areas. Keep documentation of your continuing education completion as the Board may audit renewal applications.
What's the difference between LMFT and LPC in Illinois?
Both LMFTs and LPCs require master's degrees and 3,000 supervised clinical hours, but LMFTs specialize in marriage, family, and relational therapy, while LPCs receive broader training in individual counseling across various populations. LMFTs are trained specifically in systems theory and working with couples and families together in therapy. LPCs may work with couples and families, but don't receive the same depth of relational systems training. Illinois LMFTs earn a median salary of $60,140 compared to $47,700 for LPCs, reflecting the specialized nature of MFT training.
Can I specialize in marriage and family therapy?
Yes, many LMFTs develop specializations in areas like trauma-informed couples therapy, divorce mediation, premarital counseling, parent-child relationship therapy, LGBTQ+ affirming family therapy, military family services, or specific therapeutic modalities like Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) or Gottman Method Couples Therapy. Specialization typically involves additional training and certification beyond basic licensure and can increase your earning potential and professional reputation.
Key Takeaways
- Illinois LMFT licensure requires a COAMFTE-accredited master's or doctoral degree in marriage and family therapy, though alternative pathways exist for those with related graduate degrees who complete post-graduate MFT training.
- You must complete 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience, including 1,000 hours of direct client contact and 350 hours of relational therapy with couples or families, typically taking 2-3 years under Board-approved supervision.
- The AMFTRB national examination is the final requirement before licensure, testing knowledge across practice domains, therapeutic systems, professional identity, and ethical standards.
- Illinois LMFTs earn a median annual salary of $60,140 (May 2024), with entry-level positions starting around $50,210 and experienced therapists earning $71,190 to $102,850 at the 75th-90th percentiles.
- The complete process from beginning your bachelor's degree to obtaining full LMFT licensure typically takes 8-10 years and costs between $70,000-$200,000, though financial aid and employment during supervision can offset expenses.
- Job growth for marriage and family therapists in Illinois is projected at 7% through 2030, with approximately 210 annual job openings driven by increased mental health awareness, insurance coverage expansion, and growing recognition of relationship-focused therapy.
Explore Related Mental Health Careers in Illinois
As you consider your path to becoming a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, you may also want to explore related mental health professions in Illinois:
Clinical Psychologist: Requires a PhD or PsyD degree with extensive training in assessment and diagnosis. Clinical and counseling psychologists in Illinois earned a median salary of $79,140 as of May 2024, with experienced professionals earning $125,950 to $178,550 at the 75th-90th percentiles. Learn more about becoming a psychologist in Illinois.
Licensed Professional Counselor: Requires a master's degree with a focus in counseling specialties. Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in Illinois earned a median salary of $47,700 as of May 2024, with top earners (75th-90th percentile) making approximately $64,970 to $82,290. Learn more about Licensed Professional Counselor requirements in Illinois.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker: Requires a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree. Child, family, and school social workers in Illinois earned a median salary of $57,010 as of May 2024, with the highest earners (75th-90th percentile) making $74,460 to $92,550. Mental health and substance abuse social workers in Illinois earned a median salary of $46,610 as of May 2024, with top practitioners earning $64,620 to $83,470. Learn more about becoming a social worker in Illinois.
Ready to Start Your Journey to Becoming an LMFT?
Explore accredited marriage and family therapy programs in Illinois that match your educational goals and career aspirations.
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.
