How to Become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Maryland
To become a licensed marriage and family therapist in Maryland, you'll need a master's or doctoral degree in MFT (60+ graduate credits), 2,000 hours of supervised clinical experience, and you must pass the AMFTRB national examination. The process typically takes 6-8 years, with median salaries of $65,300 statewide. MFTs in the DC-VA-MD-WV metro region earn higher at $95,100 median.
Marriage and family therapists play a vital role in helping families navigate complex relational challenges. These licensed professionals work with couples, families, and individuals to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen relationships. Whether addressing substance abuse, marital stress, parent-child conflicts, or mental health concerns, marriage and family therapists use evidence-based techniques to support their clients' well-being.
If you're considering this rewarding career path in Maryland, you'll need to meet specific educational, clinical, and examination requirements. This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of becoming a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) in Maryland, from degree requirements to salary expectations.
Table of Contents
Educational Requirements for Maryland MFTs
The Maryland Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists requires applicants to hold an advanced degree specifically in marriage and family therapy from a regionally accredited college or university. You have two educational pathways to choose from:
Master's Degree Path: A master's degree in marriage and family therapy that includes a minimum of 60 graduate semester hours or 90 graduate quarter hours. This is the most common route for aspiring MFTs.
Doctoral Degree Path: A doctoral degree in marriage and family therapy that includes at least 90 semester hours or 135 graduate quarter credits.
Your program must originate from an institution approved by the Maryland Board of Higher Education. Programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE) are widely recognized and meet these standards. However, non-COAMFTE-accredited programs may also qualify if they meet the board's coursework requirements and come from regionally accredited institutions. You can explore Maryland MFT degree programs that meet these accreditation requirements.
Required Coursework
Beyond the total credit hours, Maryland mandates specific coursework to ensure you're prepared for the complexities of marriage and family therapy practice. Your degree program must include at least three graduate credit hours in each of the following core areas:
- Sexual Issues in Marriage and Family Therapy - Understanding sexuality's role in relationships and how to address sexual concerns therapeutically
- Diagnosis and Treatment of Mental and Emotional Disorders - Learning to assess, diagnose, and treat psychological conditions within a systemic framework
- Couples Theory, Therapy, and Techniques - Mastering evidence-based approaches to working with couples, including cognitive behavioral therapy and emotionally focused therapy
- Legal, Ethical, and Professional Responsibilities - Understanding the ethical standards, legal requirements, and professional boundaries that guide MFT practice
These specialized courses ensure you develop the clinical knowledge and ethical framework necessary to practice safely and effectively. Make sure your program explicitly covers these areas, as the Maryland board reviews transcripts carefully during the licensing application process.
Supervised Clinical Experience Requirements
Substantial hands-on experience is required before you can practice independently. Maryland's supervised clinical experience requirements differ based on your degree level:
For Master's Degree Holders (60 credits): You must complete a minimum of 2,000 hours of supervised clinical experience in marriage and family therapy over at least two years. These hours must be obtained after you receive your master's degree.
For Doctoral Degree Holders: You must complete two years of practice as a marriage and family therapist with a minimum of 2,000 hours of direct client contact in marriage and family therapy settings. Doctoral candidates may accumulate hours before or after degree completion; however, some hours may be required post-degree, depending on the program structure.
During your supervised experience, you'll work under the guidance of a board-approved supervisor who monitors your clinical development, provides feedback, and ensures you're gaining competence across various therapeutic modalities. This crucial phase enables you to apply classroom learning to real-world situations, thereby building confidence in your clinical skills.
Your supervision must include regular individual or group supervision sessions where you discuss cases, receive guidance on treatment planning, and refine your therapeutic techniques. Documentation of all supervision hours is required for your license application.
Examination Requirements
Once you've completed your education and clinical hours, you must pass a national examination to demonstrate your competency. Maryland requires all MFT license applicants to pass the examination developed by the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB).
The AMFTRB exam tests your knowledge across the full spectrum of marriage and family therapy practice. According to AMFTRB, the exam covers core competency areas including theoretical foundations, assessment and diagnosis, treatment planning and therapeutic interventions, professional ethics, and legal responsibilities. The computer-based test consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering these domains.
You can register for the exam through the AMFTRB website after your education and supervised experience are complete. Many candidates find exam preparation courses and study materials helpful for reviewing key concepts and test-taking strategies.
Application Process and Fees
When you're ready to apply for your Maryland MFT license, you'll submit a comprehensive application to the Maryland Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists. The application process includes several components:
- Completed application form with detailed information about your education and clinical experience
- Official transcripts from your graduate program showing completion of required coursework
- Verification of supervised clinical hours documented by your approved supervisor
- Passing AMFTRB exam scores are sent directly from the testing organization
- Application fee as required by the board (fees vary, check current rates)
- Background check to verify good moral character
Maryland takes professional ethics seriously. To receive your license, you must demonstrate good moral character and agree to comply with the board's code of ethics. Any history of professional misconduct, criminal convictions, or license discipline in other states may affect your application.
The board reviews applications on a rolling basis. Processing times vary depending on application volume, but you can expect several weeks to a few months from submission to approval. Ensure all documentation is complete and accurate to avoid delays.
License Renewal Requirements
Your Maryland MFT license isn't permanent. It expires two years from the date of issuance and must be renewed to maintain your legal right to practice. License renewal requirements include:
- Submission of a renewal application before your expiration date
- Payment of the renewal fee
- Completion of continuing education requirements as mandated by the board
- Continued compliance with the board's ethical standards
Maryland requires licensed MFTs to complete continuing education credits during each renewal period. These courses help you stay current with evolving therapeutic techniques, emerging research, ethical standards, and best practices in the field. The board specifies the number of required hours and acceptable course providers.
Mark your renewal date on your calendar and start the process early. Practicing with an expired license is illegal and can result in disciplinary action. If you're unable to renew on time, please contact the board to discuss your options, which may include inactive status or reinstatement procedures.
Career Outlook and Salary in Maryland
The career outlook for marriage and family therapists in Maryland is exceptionally favorable. The field is experiencing strong growth as more insurance companies expand mental health coverage and families increasingly recognize the value of professional therapeutic support.
According to the latest data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024), Maryland employs 360 licensed marriage and family therapists. However, salary varies significantly depending on your location within the state and your level of experience.
Maryland MFT Salary Data (2024)
| Location | Employment | Median Salary | Mean Salary | Entry Level (10th %ile) | Experienced (90th %ile) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maryland (Statewide) | 360 | $65,300 | $84,900 | $48,550 | $141,420 |
| Baltimore-Columbia-Towson Metro | 230 | $61,210 | $78,730 | $48,550 | $126,470 |
| DC-VA-MD-WV Metro | 320 | $95,100 | $89,080 | $52,730 | $127,390 |
| National Average | 65,870 | $63,780 | $72,720 | $42,610 | $111,610 |
These figures show that Maryland MFTs earn competitive salaries. Those working in the broader Washington, D.C.-Virginia-Maryland-West Virginia metropolitan area (which includes parts of Maryland) command the highest compensation, with a median salary of $95,100. Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential, with the greater DC metro region offering substantially higher median salaries than the Baltimore area or the statewide averages in Maryland.
Several factors contribute to the positive job outlook for Maryland MFTs. Insurance companies are increasingly covering family therapy services as part of mental health benefits, making treatment more accessible to clients. Additionally, marriage and family therapists typically charge lower rates than psychiatrists or clinical psychologists while providing specialized relational expertise, making them an attractive option for many families and couples.
The field offers diverse practice settings, including private practice, community mental health centers, hospitals, schools, employee assistance programs, and substance abuse treatment facilities. You can also specialize in areas such as couples therapy, child and adolescent family therapy, divorce mediation, or substance abuse counseling.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become an MFT in Maryland?
The complete process typically takes 6 to 8 years. This includes 2-3 years for a master's degree, 2+ years for supervised clinical experience (2,000 hours), and several months for exam preparation and licensure processing. If you pursue a doctoral degree, the timeline extends to 8-10 years.
Can I practice with an out-of-state MFT license in Maryland?
Maryland does not offer automatic license reciprocity. However, if you hold an active MFT license from another state, you may be eligible for licensure by endorsement. You'll still need to meet Maryland's education and experience requirements and pass the AMFTRB exam if you haven't already. Contact the Maryland Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists to determine your eligibility.
What's the difference between an LMFT and other therapy licenses in Maryland?
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs) specialize in systemic, relational approaches to therapy, focusing on how family systems and relationships impact individual well-being. This differs from Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors (LCPCs), who typically focus on personal mental health, and Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), who emphasize social services and community resources. Each license has distinct training requirements and a scope of practice.
Do I need malpractice insurance to practice as an MFT in Maryland?
While Maryland law doesn't explicitly require malpractice insurance, it's strongly recommended and often required by employers or facility credentialing processes. Most private practitioners carry professional liability insurance to protect themselves from potential lawsuits or claims related to their professional services.
Can I open a private practice immediately after getting licensed?
Yes, once you receive your Maryland LMFT license, you can legally open a private practice. However, many newly licensed therapists choose to gain additional experience in an established setting before starting solo practice. You'll also need to consider business aspects such as office space, billing systems, marketing, and business insurance.
What are the best-paying areas for MFTs in Maryland?
The Washington, D.C.-Virginia-Maryland-West Virginia metropolitan area (which includes Maryland counties near DC) offers the highest salaries for MFTs, with a median annual salary of $95,100 across the entire metro region. This is significantly higher than the median income in the Baltimore-Columbia-Towson area ($61,210) or the statewide median income in Maryland ($65,300). Cost of living should also factor into your location decisions.
Key Takeaways
- Maryland requires a master's degree (60 credits) or doctoral degree (90 credits) in marriage and family therapy from an accredited institution.
- You must complete 2,000 hours of supervised clinical experience over at least two years after receiving your degree.
- All applicants must pass the AMFTRB national examination to demonstrate clinical competency.
- Your license must be renewed every two years, with a continuing education requirement.
- Maryland MFTs earn a median salary of $65,300 statewide, with those in the broader DC-VA-MD-WV metro region earning up to $95,100
- The career outlook is strong due to increasing insurance coverage and growing recognition of the value of family therapy.
- The entire licensing process, from starting your degree to obtaining licensure, typically takes 6-8 years.
Schools with MFT Degree Programs Accepting Students from Maryland
Ready to Start Your MFT Career in Maryland?
Becoming a licensed marriage and family therapist in Maryland is a significant commitment, but the personal and professional rewards are substantial. You'll have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people's lives, help families build stronger relationships, and enjoy a fulfilling career with strong earning potential, particularly in the greater Washington, DC metropolitan region.
Find MFT Programs in Maryland
Research Additional Psychology Professional Licenses in Maryland
- Maryland Psychologist Licensing
- Maryland Social Work Licensing
- Maryland Mental Health Counselor Licensing
- Learn More About The Career of an LMFT
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.
