How to Become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Mississippi
To become a licensed marriage and family therapist in Mississippi, you'll need an accredited master's or doctoral degree in marriage and family therapy, complete a 500-hour practicum and 1,000 hours of post-graduate clinical experience, receive 200 hours of supervision, and pass the national MFT exam. The process typically takes 6-8 years, with licensed MFTs in Mississippi earning a median salary of $51,480 annually.
Marriage and family therapists provide essential mental health services to individuals, couples, and families struggling with relationship challenges, communication breakdowns, and behavioral issues. In Mississippi, becoming a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) requires meeting specific educational, clinical, and examination requirements set by the Mississippi State Board of Examiners for Social Workers and Marriage & Family Therapists.
This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of the Mississippi MFT licensing process, from choosing an accredited program to passing your licensure exam and launching your career. Whether you're just starting your bachelor's degree or already working toward your graduate education, understanding these requirements will help you plan your path to becoming a licensed MFT in Mississippi.
Table of Contents
Educational Requirements for Mississippi MFTs
The foundation of your MFT career begins with earning the proper educational credentials. Mississippi requires marriage and family therapists to complete graduate-level education from an accredited institution before they can pursue licensure.
Required Degree Level and Accreditation
To qualify for Mississippi MFT licensure, you must obtain either a master's degree or a doctoral degree specifically in marriage and family therapy. Mississippi accepts programs accredited by either the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE) or the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), provided the program meets all required MFT competencies.
Programs with COAMFTE or CACREP accreditation meet national standards for MFT education, including required coursework in family systems theory, human development, research methods, and clinical practice. If you're considering a program with candidacy status from either accrediting body, verify with the Mississippi Board that it will meet licensure requirements.
Mississippi residents have several options for completing their MFT education, including accredited MFT programs in Mississippi and neighboring states, as well as online and hybrid MFT degree options that provide flexibility for working students.
Core Coursework Areas
Your COAMFTE-accredited program will include comprehensive coursework covering these essential areas:
- Marital and Family Systems: Understanding family dynamics, systems theory, and relational patterns
- Marital and Family Therapy: Evidence-based therapeutic approaches and intervention strategies
- Individual Development: Human growth and development across the lifespan
- Professional Ethics and Law: Ethical standards, legal responsibilities, and professional boundaries
- Research Methods: Understanding and evaluating clinical research in the field
- Assessment and Diagnosis: Clinical evaluation, DSM criteria, and treatment planning
These courses prepare you for the hands-on clinical work you'll complete during your practicum and post-graduate training.
Clinical Practicum Experience
While completing your graduate degree, you'll need to fulfill specific practicum requirements that give you supervised clinical experience working directly with clients. Mississippi's practicum requirements ensure you're prepared for independent practice after graduation.
Practicum Duration and Structure
Your clinical practicum must last for a minimum of 12 months and take place during your graduate program. This extended timeframe allows you to develop clinical skills progressively and work with diverse client populations across different presenting issues.
While the practicum doesn't need to be completed in 12 consecutive months, it should provide regular, consistent client contact over an extended period rather than concentrated bursts of intensive work.
Required Clinical Hours
During your practicum, you must complete a minimum of 500 face-to-face clinical contact hours with clients. These hours involve direct therapeutic work with individuals, couples, and families under supervision.
Of these 500 total hours, at least 200 hours must be relational contact hours spent working specifically with couples or families together in therapy sessions. This requirement ensures you gain substantial experience with the systemic and relational aspects of marriage and family therapy, not just individual counseling.
Supervision Requirements During Practicum
Throughout your practicum, you'll receive ongoing clinical supervision to guide your professional development. Mississippi requires supervision at a ratio of at least one hour of supervision for every six hours of clinical client contact.
Your practicum supervisor must be approved by the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), meet Mississippi Board standards, or be qualified according to your graduate program's requirements. This ensures you receive quality guidance from experienced professionals who understand the MFT model and can support your clinical development.
| Practicum Requirement | Minimum Hours | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 12 months | During graduate program (not necessarily consecutive) |
| Total Clinical Contact | 500 hours | Face-to-face client contact hours |
| Relational Hours | 200 hours | Must be with couples or families together |
| Supervision | 83+ hours | 1 hour supervision per 6 hours client contact |
Post-Graduate Supervision and Experience
After completing your graduate degree and practicum, you'll need to accumulate additional supervised clinical experience before you're eligible for full licensure in Mississippi. This post-graduate phase allows you to apply your knowledge independently while still receiving professional guidance.
Developing Your Supervision Plan
Before beginning your post-graduate clinical work, you must develop and submit an approved supervision plan to the Mississippi State Board. This plan outlines where you'll be working, who will provide your supervision, and how you'll meet the required hours for licensure.
Your supervision plan should be detailed and specific, addressing the clinical setting, client populations you'll serve, supervision frequency and format, and timeline for completing requirements. The Board reviews your plan to ensure it meets all regulatory standards before you begin accruing hours.
Required Post-Graduate Clinical Experience
Mississippi requires two years of documented clinical experience after you've completed your qualifying graduate degree. This experience must include at least 1,000 hours of face-to-face client contact.
These hours can be completed in various clinical settings, including community mental health centers, private practices, hospitals, social service agencies, and other environments where you provide marriage and family therapy services.
The two-year timeframe allows you to develop clinical competence gradually while working under supervision. Most candidates complete this requirement while working as an associate marriage and family therapist or in similar supervised positions.
Post-Graduate Supervision Requirements
During your post-graduate experience, you must complete 200 hours of marriage and family therapy supervision. This supervision helps you refine your clinical skills, navigate ethical challenges, and develop your professional identity as an MFT.
At least 50 of these supervision hours must be individual supervision, meaning sessions with fewer than two supervisees present. Individual supervision is defined as having less than two supervisees or associates during the 50-minute supervision hour.
The remaining 150 hours can be completed through group supervision, where multiple supervisees meet together with a qualified supervisor. Both formats offer valuable learning opportunities, with individual supervision providing personalized feedback and group supervision offering peer learning and diverse perspectives.
Your supervisor must be a licensed marriage and family therapist or other qualified mental health professional approved by the Mississippi Board. They should have substantial experience in the field and be qualified to provide clinical supervision according to AAMFT standards or equivalent guidelines.
| Post-Graduate Requirement | Minimum Required | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Clinical Experience | 2 years | After completing a graduate degree |
| Client Contact Hours | 1,000 hours | Face-to-face therapeutic contact |
| Total Supervision | 200 hours | Throughout the post-graduate period |
| Individual Supervision | 50 hours | One-on-one with supervisor |
Licensing Examination Requirements
Once you've completed your education, practicum, and post-graduate supervised experience, you'll need to pass the national MFT licensing examination to demonstrate your clinical competence and readiness for independent practice.
The National MFT Examination
Mississippi uses the national MFT examination developed by the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB). This comprehensive exam tests your knowledge of marriage and family therapy theory, clinical practice, ethics, and professional standards.
The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering assessment and diagnosis, treatment planning and intervention, family systems theories, ethics and professional responsibility, and legal and regulatory issues. You'll have four hours to complete the examination.
Most candidates take the exam after completing their supervised hours or shortly before finishing their post-graduate requirements. The Board will provide specific instructions about when you're eligible to sit for the exam based on your individual circumstances.
Exam Registration and Preparation
You'll register for the national MFT exam through the AMFTRB website after receiving authorization from the Mississippi Board. The exam is offered year-round at testing centers throughout Mississippi and across the country, giving you flexibility in scheduling.
Many candidates invest several months in exam preparation, using study guides, practice tests, and review courses to ensure success. The exam pass rate varies, but thorough preparation significantly increases your likelihood of passing on your first attempt.
Additional Requirements for Licensure
Beyond the examination, you'll need to meet several additional requirements before the Board grants your license:
- Background Check: Complete a criminal background check as part of your application
- Application Fees: Submit required fees for application processing and initial licensure
- Professional References: Provide references from supervisors and colleagues attesting to your clinical competence
- Documentation: Submit all required verification of education, supervised experience, and examination scores
How to Apply for Your Mississippi MFT License
After you've completed all education, experience, supervision, and examination requirements, you're ready to submit your formal application for Mississippi MFT licensure.
Gathering Required Documentation
Your application will require extensive documentation of your qualifications. Start organizing these materials well before you plan to submit your application:
- Official transcripts from your COAMFTE-accredited graduate program
- Detailed documentation of practicum hours, including specific hours with couples and families
- Verification of post-graduate supervised experience, signed by your supervisor(s)
- Documentation of all supervision hours, both individual and group
- Official score report from the national MFT examination
- Completed background check results
- Professional references (typically 2-3 references from supervisors or colleagues)
Submitting Your Application
Submit your completed application along with all supporting documentation to the Mississippi State Board of Examiners for Social Workers and Marriage & Family Therapists. The Board reviews applications on a rolling basis, though processing times can vary depending on application volume and the completeness of your submission.
You can find current application forms, fees, and detailed instructions on the Mississippi Board's official website.
Timeline and Processing
Most complete applications are processed within 6-12 weeks, though this timeline can extend beyond 12 weeks depending on application volume, Board meeting schedules, and the completeness of your submission. If the Board needs additional information or clarification about your qualifications, processing time will be longer. You can check your application status by contacting the Board directly.
Once approved, you'll receive your official Mississippi LMFT license, allowing you to practice independently as a licensed marriage and family therapist throughout the state.
Mississippi MFT Salary and Career Outlook
Marriage and family therapists in Mississippi enjoy rewarding careers helping individuals, couples, and families navigate relationship challenges and mental health concerns. Understanding salary expectations and job prospects can help you plan your career path.
Current Salary Data for Mississippi MFTs
According to the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024), Mississippi currently employs approximately 180 licensed marriage and family therapists across the state. This represents significant growth in the profession and increased recognition of the value MFTs bring to mental health care.
Mississippi MFTs earn competitive salaries, with the annual mean wage reaching $51,480 as of May 2024. However, salaries vary based on experience level, work setting, geographic location within the state, and specialization areas.
| Salary Percentile | Annual Salary | What This Means |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $34,890 | Entry-level MFTs typically start here |
| 25th Percentile | $42,950 | Early-career professionals with 2-3 years of experience |
| Median (50th) | $51,480 | Middle of salary range, typical for established MFTs |
| 75th Percentile | $59,280 | Experienced MFTs with specialized skills |
| 90th Percentile | $72,300 | Top earners, often in private practice or leadership roles |
Common Employment Settings
Mississippi MFTs work in diverse settings across the state, each offering unique opportunities and salary ranges:
- Individual and Family Services Agencies: Community-based organizations providing therapy to diverse populations
- Healthcare Practitioner Offices: Group practices and integrated healthcare settings
- Outpatient Mental Health Clinics: Specialized mental health treatment facilities
- Hospitals and Medical Centers: Providing therapy in medical settings, often with higher salaries
- Private Practice: Self-employment with flexible scheduling and potentially higher earnings
- Schools and Universities: Providing counseling services to students and families
Career Growth and Outlook
The demand for marriage and family therapists continues to grow nationwide as awareness of mental health services increases and insurance coverage expands. Several factors contribute to positive job prospects for Mississippi MFTs:
- Increased recognition of the importance of relationship and family dynamics in mental health
- Growing insurance coverage for marriage and family therapy services
- A rising population is creating a greater need for mental health professionals
- Shortage of mental health providers in rural areas creates opportunities
- Expansion of telehealth services ,allowing broader access to therapy
The field is expected to see continued growth in the coming years, with opportunities for advancement into clinical supervision, program administration, private practice ownership, and specialized treatment areas.
If you're interested in exploring what an MFT career looks like beyond Mississippi, you can learn more about MFT careers and compare licensing requirements in other states.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mississippi MFT Licensing
How long does it take to become a licensed MFT in Mississippi?
The complete process typically takes 6-8 years from the start of your bachelor's degree. This includes four years for a bachelor's degree, 2-3 years for your COAMFTE-accredited master's program (including practicum), and 2 years of post-graduate supervised experience. Some students complete the process faster by entering graduate school earlier or working full-time during their post-graduate phase.
Can I practice as an MFT in Mississippi while completing my supervised hours?
Yes, you can work as an associate marriage and family therapist or similar position while completing your post-graduate supervised experience hours. You must work under the supervision of a qualified supervisor with an approved supervision plan on file with the Board. You cannot practice independently or represent yourself as a licensed MFT until you've completed all requirements and received your license.
Does Mississippi offer reciprocity for MFT licenses from other states?
Mississippi offers licensure by endorsement (not blanket reciprocity) for MFTs licensed in other states. To qualify, you must demonstrate that you meet substantially equivalent education, experience, and examination requirements to Mississippi's standards. The Board reviews each application individually and may require additional documentation, supervision hours, or other state-specific requirements to ensure you meet Mississippi's standards. Contact the Board directly to discuss your specific situation and determine what requirements you'll need to fulfill.
What's the difference between an MFT and other mental health professionals in Mississippi?
Marriage and family therapists are specifically trained in systemic and relational therapy approaches, focusing on couples and family dynamics. While licensed professional counselors (LPCs) and social workers (LCSWs) also provide mental health services, MFTs receive specialized training in working with relationship systems. Each profession has unique training requirements, theoretical orientations, and areas of expertise, though there's also significant overlap in the populations served.
How much does it cost to get licensed as an MFT in Mississippi?
Total costs vary significantly depending on your educational path, but expect to invest $50,000-100,000 or more in graduate education, plus additional expenses for the licensing exam (approximately $300-400), application fees (typically $200-400), background checks ($50-100), and supervision costs during your post-graduate phase. Many candidates work while completing supervised hours, which helps offset these costs. Financial aid, scholarships, and employer tuition assistance can help reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.
Do I need to take continuing education courses to maintain my Mississippi MFT license?
Yes, Mississippi requires licensed MFTs to complete continuing education hours to renew their license, though specific requirements may change. Contact the Mississippi State Board of Examiners for Social Workers and Marriage & Family Therapists for current continuing education requirements, approved providers, and renewal procedures. Maintaining your license also requires payment of renewal fees and adherence to ethical standards throughout your career.
Can I earn my MFT degree online and still qualify for Mississippi licensure?
Yes, you can complete your MFT degree through online or hybrid programs as long as the program is accredited by COAMFTE or CACREP and meets all of Mississippi's educational requirements. Many accredited programs now offer online coursework combined with in-person clinical training and practicum experiences. Make sure any online program you consider has proper accreditation and provides opportunities to complete the required practicum hours with appropriate supervision.
Key Takeaways
- Mississippi MFT licensure requires a COAMFTE or CACREP-accredited master's or doctoral degree specifically in marriage and family therapy, not just any counseling degree.
- You must complete 500 practicum hours during your graduate program, with at least 200 hours of direct work with couples or families together.
- After graduation, you'll need two years of post-graduate experience, including 1,000 client contact hours and 200 supervision hours (50 individual, 150 group).
- Licensed MFTs in Mississippi earn a median salary of $51,480 annually, with the highest earners making upwards of $72,300.
- The complete licensure process typically takes 6-8 years from starting your bachelor's degree to receiving your LMFT license.
- Mississippi's growing population and increased demand for mental health services create positive job prospects for licensed marriage and family therapists.
Ready to Start Your MFT Career in Mississippi?
Explore COAMFTE-accredited marriage and family therapy programs that meet Mississippi's licensure requirements.
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.
