How to Become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in New Hampshire

Written by Dr. Julian Navarro, PhD, LCSW, Last Updated: October 7, 2025

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Overview of the Licensure Process

Becoming an LMFT in New Hampshire involves four major steps that typically take 6-8 years to complete, with most candidates completing the process in about 7 years on average. Understanding this roadmap helps you plan your educational and professional journey effectively.

Step	Requirement	Typical Timeline
1. Education	Complete master's or doctoral degree in MFT (preferably COAMFTE-accredited or equivalent)	2-3 years
2. Practicum	300 hours of face-to-face client contact during the graduate program	During degree
3. Supervised Experience	3,000 hours post-graduate supervised experience, including 1,000 direct client hours and 200 supervision hours	2-4 years
4. Examination	Pass AMFTRB national written examination (no oral or clinical exam required)	3-6 months to prepare

It's important to note that while licensure requirements vary by state, New Hampshire's standards align with national best practices established by the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) and the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE).

Education Requirements

New Hampshire's Board of Mental Health Practice accepts several educational pathways to LMFT licensure. While COAMFTE accreditation is the preferred and most straightforward route, regionally accredited programs meeting coursework requirements are also accepted. All pathways require graduate-level education with specific coursework in marriage and family therapy theory and practice.

Approved Degree Pathways

Applicants can qualify for New Hampshire LMFT licensure through one of the following educational routes:

Pathway	Degree Requirement	Accreditation
Option 1 (Preferred)	Master's or doctoral degree in Marriage and Family Therapy	COAMFTE-accredited program
Option 2	Master's or doctoral degree in another mental health field + post-graduate MFT training	COAMFTE-approved post-graduate training
Option 3	Master's or doctoral degree with an MFT concentration	Regionally accredited institution meeting NH coursework requirements
Option 4	AAMFT Clinical Membership Pathway	Accepted as an alternative verification of MFT training

Most students pursue Option 1 through New Hampshire MFT degree programs or nearby COAMFTE-accredited institutions. For working professionals, many online or hybrid MFT programs offer flexible schedules while meeting accreditation standards.

Required Coursework

Regardless of which educational pathway you choose, your program must include comprehensive coursework in the following areas per NH Administrative Rule Mhp 302.02:

Family Development and Interaction (Minimum 3 Courses):

Theories of family development
Family life cycle stages
Family and marriage sociology
Families under stress and crisis intervention
Families in social and cultural contexts
Contemporary family structures and dynamics
Aging and multigenerational family issues
Cross-cultural and diverse family systems
Interpersonal relationships (siblings, parents, marital partners)
Family subsystems and boundaries

Family Therapy Theory and Methods (Minimum 3 Courses):

Family assessment and evaluation methods
Treatment and intervention strategies
Family therapy methodology and techniques
Major clinical theories include:
- Contextual theory
- Communications theory
- Strategic family therapy
- Object relations theory
- Systemic theory
- Transgenerational theory
- Structural family therapy

Human Development (Minimum 3 Courses):

Personality theory and development
Human development across the lifespan
Psychopathology and mental disorders
Human sexuality
Behavior pathology and abnormal psychology

Diagnosis (1 Course Required):

Mental health diagnosis using DSM criteria
Diagnostic assessment for individuals, couples, and families
Differential diagnosis and treatment planning

Professional Studies (1 Course Required):

Family law and legal issues
Ethics in marriage and family therapy
Interprofessional cooperation and collaboration
Independent practice management
Legal responsibilities and risk management
Professional socialization and identity

Research Methods (1 Course Required):

Statistics and data analysis
Research methodology
Research design and evaluation
Evidence-based practice

Practicum Requirements During Graduate Program

All MFT students must complete a supervised practicum or internship before earning their graduate degree. New Hampshire requires:

Minimum 300 hours of direct, face-to-face client contact
At least 150 hours must be with couples and families (not solely individual therapy)
Supervision must be provided by an AAMFT-approved supervisor
Duration: Typically completed over one academic year
Settings: Clinical placements in community mental health centers, private practices, family service agencies, or university counseling centers

Students who complete COAMFTE-accredited programs can apply up to 100 hours of practicum supervision toward their post-graduate supervised experience requirement, potentially reducing the time needed after graduation.

Supervised Experience Requirements

After completing your graduate degree, you must accumulate substantial supervised clinical experience before you're eligible for full licensure in New Hampshire. This post-graduate supervision ensures you develop the advanced clinical skills needed for independent practice.

Experience Hour Requirements

New Hampshire mandates a minimum of two years of post-graduate supervised experience per NH Administrative Rule Mhp 302.02, with the following specifications:

Requirement Type	Hours Needed	Details
Total Experience	3,000 hours minimum	Completed over 2-4 years
Direct Client Contact	1,000 hours minimum	Face-to-face therapy with clients (required per Mhp 302.02)
Annual Minimum	1,500 hours per year	Each year must span 12-24 months
Individual Supervision	Minimum 1 hour weekly	One-on-one with approved supervisor
Total Supervision	200 hours minimum	From an AAMFT or board-approved supervisor (required per Mhp 302.02)

Supervision Requirements

Clinical supervision must meet strict standards to ensure quality training:

Supervisor Qualifications: Must be an AAMFT-approved supervisor or alternate supervisor approved by the New Hampshire Board of Mental Health Practice
Frequency: At least one hour of individual supervision per week is required throughout your supervised experience
Documentation: Supervisors must document your clinical hours, case consultations, and skill development
Group Supervision: While individual supervision is required, many supervisees also participate in group supervision for additional learning

Credit for Practicum Supervision

If you graduated from a COAMFTE-accredited program, you may apply up to 100 hours of your practicum supervision toward the 200-hour post-graduate supervision requirement. This benefit can reduce your time to licensure by several months.

Types of Clinical Experience

Your supervised experience should include diverse clinical work with:

Individuals seeking therapy for relationship issues
Couples working on communication and conflict resolution
Families addressing systemic challenges and dynamics
Various presenting problems (anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions)
Diverse cultural backgrounds and family structures

Examination Requirements

The final major requirement for New Hampshire LMFT licensure is passing the national examination administered by the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB). New Hampshire only requires the national written exam—there is no separate oral or clinical examination.

About the AMFTRB Examination

The AMFTRB examination is a comprehensive test of marriage and family therapy knowledge, clinical skills, and ethical practice. Key details include:

Format: Computer-based examination
Questions: 200 multiple-choice questions
Duration: 4 hours
Content Areas:
- Assessment and treatment planning
- Systemic and relational theories
- Therapeutic techniques and interventions
- Professional ethics and legal issues
- Cultural competency and diversity
- Research and program evaluation
Passing Score: Set by the AMFTRB (typically around 68-72% correct)

Registration and Testing Process

To register for the AMFTRB examination:

Request Exam Packet: Contact the New Hampshire Board of Mental Health Practice to receive your examination authorization packet
Complete Application: Submit your completed packet to Professional Examination Service (PES), the testing administrator
Schedule Exam: Once approved, you'll receive authorization to schedule your test at a Prometric testing center
Select Date: Choose a testing date and location convenient for you
Take Exam: Arrive at the testing center with proper identification
Receive Results: The AMFTRB typically provides pass/fail notification within 2-4 weeks

Preparing for the Examination

Most candidates spend 2-4 months preparing for the AMFTRB exam. Effective preparation strategies include:

Using AMFTRB-approved study guides and practice tests
Joining study groups with other MFT candidates
Reviewing key theories and clinical approaches
Studying professional ethics codes (AAMFT Code of Ethics)
Taking practice exams to identify knowledge gaps
Consulting with recently licensed LMFTs about the exam

If You Don't Pass

Candidates may retake the exam after 90 days, following the AMFTRB retake policy. There's no limit on the number of times you can retake the exam, though you must pay the examination fee each time.

Application Process & Timeline

Once you've completed all education, experience, and examination requirements, you're ready to apply for full LMFT licensure in New Hampshire.

Application Steps

Gather Documentation: Collect transcripts, supervision verification forms, and examination scores
Complete Application: Submit the LMFT licensure application to the Board of Mental Health Practice
Background Check: Complete the required criminal background check and fingerprinting
Pay Fees: Submit all application and licensing fees (see costs section below)
Board Review: The board reviews your application (typically 4-8 weeks)
Receive License: If approved, you'll receive your LMFT license number

Estimated Timeline to Licensure

Phase	Duration	Cumulative Time
Master's degree completion	2-3 years	2-3 years
Post-graduate supervised experience	2-4 years	4-7 years
Exam preparation and testing	3-6 months	4.5-7.5 years
Application processing	1-2 months	5-8 years

Most individuals complete the entire process in 6-8 years from starting graduate school to receiving full licensure, with an average of about 7 years.

Costs & Investment

Understanding the financial investment required for LMFT licensure helps you plan effectively. While costs vary, here are typical expenses:

Education Costs

Master's Degree Tuition: $30,000-$120,000 (varies by institution, in-state vs. out-of-state)
Books and Materials: $2,000-$4,000 over 2-3 years
Technology and Software: $500-$1,500

Examination and Licensing Costs

AMFTRB Examination Fee: Approximately $450-$550
AMFTRB Practice Exams: $50-$150 (optional but recommended)
Study Materials: $100-$300
Initial License Application: $200-$400
Background Check: $50-$100

Ongoing Professional Costs

Supervision Fees (during post-graduate experience): $50-$150 per hour (200+ hours needed)
Professional Liability Insurance: $200-$500 annually
License Renewal (every 2 years): $200-$300
Continuing Education: $300-$800 per renewal period
Professional Association Memberships: $100-$300 annually (AAMFT, state associations)

Total Estimated Investment: $50,000-$150,000+ depending on program choice, supervision arrangements, and personal circumstances.

Career Outlook & Salary Data

New Hampshire offers promising career opportunities for LMFTs, with steady job growth and competitive salaries reflecting the state's recognition of mental health services.

Employment Outlook

The job outlook for marriage and family therapists remains strong both nationally and in New Hampshire:

National Job Growth: 14% from 2021-2031 (much faster than average according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics)
New Hampshire Employment: Approximately 220 LMFTs as of May 2024
Demand Drivers: Increased awareness of mental health importance, insurance coverage expansion, and growing acceptance of therapy services
Practice Settings: Private practice, community mental health centers, hospitals, schools, family service agencies, employee assistance programs

Salary Information (May 2024 BLS Data)

Marriage and family therapist salaries in New Hampshire are competitive, though slightly below the national average. Here's the current salary data:

Salary Metric	New Hampshire	National Average
Median Annual Salary	$57,220	$63,780
Mean Annual Salary	$60,490	$72,720
10th Percentile	$44,490	$42,610
25th Percentile	$44,490	$48,600
75th Percentile	$66,800	$85,020
90th Percentile	$80,300	$111,610

Factors Affecting Salary

Several factors influence how much you can earn as an LMFT in New Hampshire:

Experience Level: Early-career therapists typically earn $44,000-$50,000, while experienced clinicians can exceed $70,000+
Practice Setting: Private practice often offers higher earning potential than agency positions, but requires business development skills
Specialization: Specialized training in areas like trauma, eating disorders, or substance abuse can command higher rates
Geographic Location: Urban areas (Manchester, Nashua, Concord) typically offer higher salaries than rural regions
Insurance Panels: Accepting insurance vs. a cash-only practice impacts income and client volume
Additional Credentials: Board certification, AAMFT clinical membership, or specialized certifications increase marketability

Career Advancement Opportunities

LMFTs in New Hampshire can advance their careers through:

Opening a private practice or group practice
Supervising MFT trainees and interns
Specializing in high-demand treatment areas
Pursuing leadership roles in agencies or hospitals
Teaching at colleges or universities
Providing consultation and training to organizations
Writing, speaking, or developing therapy resources

License Renewal & Continuing Education

Maintaining your LMFT license in New Hampshire requires ongoing professional development and regular renewal.

License Renewal Requirements

Renewal Cycle: Every two years
Renewal Fee: Approximately $200-$300 (check current fee schedule with the board)
Continuing Education: 40 hours of board-approved continuing education every two years (per NH Admin Code Mhp 406.01)
Ethics Requirement: At least 3 hours must cover professional ethics
Renewal Deadline: Must renew before your license expiration date to avoid late fees

Continuing Education Requirements

New Hampshire requires 40 hours of continuing education (CE) per two-year renewal period with the following specifications:

Approved Providers: CE must come from board-approved providers (AAMFT, APA, NASW, state associations)
Relevant Content: Topics must relate to marriage and family therapy practice, ethics, or professional development
Format Options: In-person workshops, online courses, conferences, webinars, or professional publications
Home Study Allowance: CE may include up to 20 hours of home study or online coursework
Documentation: Keep certificates and records for at least 3 years in case of an audit
Ethics Courses: Minimum 3 hours on professional ethics required per renewal period

Finding Continuing Education

Quality CE opportunities are available through:

AAMFT national and state conferences
Online CE platforms specializing in marriage and family therapy
University-sponsored professional development programs
State mental health association workshops
Specialized training institutes (Gottman Institute, PACT, Emotionally Focused Therapy)

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to become an LMFT in New Hampshire?

The complete process typically takes 6-8 years from starting graduate school to receiving full licensure, with most candidates completing the process in about 7 years on average. This includes 2-3 years for your master's degree, 2-4 years of post-graduate supervised experience, and several months for exam preparation and application processing.

Can I practice as an MFT while completing my supervised hours?

Yes, but you must practice under supervision and cannot identify yourself as a fully licensed LMFT. You'll typically work as an "MFT Associate," "MFT Intern," or similar title while accumulating your 3,000 supervised hours. Always clearly identify your status to clients.

Does New Hampshire accept licenses from other states?

New Hampshire may offer licensure by endorsement for LMFTs already licensed in other states (per Mhp 303.02). Requirements vary, but you'll typically need to demonstrate that your original state's requirements met or exceeded New Hampshire's standards. Contact the Board of Mental Health Practice to discuss reciprocity options for your specific situation.

What's the difference between an LMFT, LPC, and LICSW in New Hampshire?

LMFTs (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists) specialize in relational and systemic therapy approaches. LPCs (Licensed Professional Counselors) provide general mental health counseling with various theoretical orientations. LICSWs (Licensed Independent Clinical Social Workers) focus on social services and clinical social work. All can provide therapy, but their training and theoretical frameworks differ.

Do I need to be an AAMFT member to get licensed in New Hampshire?

No, AAMFT membership is not required for New Hampshire licensure. However, if you have an AAMFT clinical membership obtained through the traditional track, this serves as an alternative pathway to verify your MFT training. Many LMFTs join AAMFT for professional development, networking, and CE opportunities.

How much does supervision cost during my post-graduate experience?

Supervision costs vary widely depending on your supervisor and setting. If you're employed at an agency, supervision may be included as part of your position. For private supervision, rates typically range from $50-$150 per hour. With a 200-hour minimum requirement, budget $10,000-$30,000 for supervision over 2-4 years.

Can I complete my degree online and still get licensed in New Hampshire?

Yes, New Hampshire accepts degrees from COAMFTE-accredited online and hybrid programs as well as regionally accredited programs meeting coursework requirements. The key is ensuring your program meets NH's educational standards, not whether it's online or in-person. Many working professionals successfully complete online programs while meeting all licensure requirements.

What happens if my license lapses?

If you miss your renewal deadline, you may face late fees and your license will enter inactive status. You cannot practice as an LMFT with a lapsed license. Contact the Board of Mental Health Practice immediately to understand reinstatement requirements, which may include additional fees, demonstrating current CE completion, and potential remedial education.

Is there a clinical exam in addition to the written AMFTRB exam?

No, New Hampshire only requires the national written AMFTRB examination—there is no separate clinical or oral examination. However, your supervised experience provides hands-on clinical evaluation by your approved supervisor.

How competitive is the job market for LMFTs in New Hampshire?

The job market is moderately competitive but growing. With approximately 220 LMFTs in the state as of 2024 and 14% projected national growth, opportunities exist especially for those willing to work in underserved rural areas or specialized treatment settings. Building a strong professional network during your training significantly improves job prospects.

Key Takeaways

Becoming an LMFT in New Hampshire requires a master's or doctoral degree in MFT (preferably COAMFTE-accredited or equivalent), 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience, including 1,000 direct client hours and 200 supervision hours, and passing the AMFTRB national written examination.
The complete licensure process typically takes 6-8 years from starting graduate school to receiving full licensure, with most completing the process in about 7 years on average.
New Hampshire LMFTs earn a median salary of $57,220 annually as of May 2024, with experienced practitioners and private practice owners earning significantly more.
Job growth for marriage and family therapists is projected at 14% through 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Maintaining licensure requires 40 hours of continuing education every two years, including at least 3 hours on professional ethics, with up to 20 hours allowed from home study or online courses.
The total financial investment for education, supervision, examination, and licensing typically ranges from $50,000-$150,000+.

Ready to Start Your MFT Journey?

Take the first step toward your marriage and family therapy career. Research accredited programs that align with your goals and schedule. The sooner you begin, the sooner you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of New Hampshire families.