How to Become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Your State
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs) must complete a master's degree in marriage and family therapy or a closely related field, accumulate 1,000-4,000 supervised clinical hours depending on state requirements, and pass the national AMFTRB examination. While COAMFTE accreditation is preferred, most states accept degrees from regionally accredited programs meeting specific curriculum standards. The supervision period typically takes 2-5 years post-degree. The national median salary for LMFTs is $63,780 (May 2024 BLS data).
Marriage and family therapy has emerged as one of the fastest-growing mental health specializations, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting 15% job growth from 2022 to 2032. This growth reflects increasing recognition that relationship and family dynamics significantly impact individual mental health, creating strong demand for qualified professionals who can address these complex interpersonal issues.
This comprehensive guide provides current licensure requirements for all 50 states and Washington, D.C., helping prospective LMFTs navigate the varying state-specific pathways to professional practice. Understanding these requirements is essential for planning your educational trajectory and choosing the optimal state for beginning your career.
Table of Contents
- What is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist?
- General LMFT Licensure Requirements
- Education Requirements
- Supervision and Clinical Hours
- National Examination Requirements
- State-by-State Requirements Table
- State Requirement Comparisons
- Salary and Career Outlook
- Find MFT Programs by State
- Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist?
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists are mental health professionals who specialize in treating individuals, couples, and families experiencing relational distress or dysfunction. Unlike individual-focused therapists, LMFTs view problems within the context of relationship systems, recognizing that family dynamics and interpersonal patterns significantly influence mental health outcomes.
MFTs work with clients experiencing diverse challenges, including marital conflict, parent-child relationship difficulties, blended family adjustments, divorce transitions, communication breakdowns, and behavioral issues. The profession requires specialized training in systems theory, family development, relationship dynamics, and evidence-based therapeutic interventions specifically designed for couples and families.
The LMFT credential distinguishes practitioners who have completed rigorous graduate education, accumulated extensive supervised clinical experience, and demonstrated competency through a national board examination. This professional designation ensures clients receive care from qualified therapists who meet established standards for marriage and family therapy practice.
General LMFT Licensure Requirements
While specific requirements vary by state, all LMFT licensure pathways share common foundational elements that ensure professional competency across jurisdictions. Understanding these general requirements helps prospective therapists plan their educational and professional development trajectory effectively.
Core Licensure Components
Every state requires completion of four essential elements before granting full LMFT licensure:
- Graduate Degree: Master's or doctoral degree in marriage and family therapy or a closely related field
- Supervised Experience: Post-degree clinical hours under qualified supervision (1,000-4,000 hours)
- National Examination: Passing score on AMFTRB examination or state-specific exam
- Background Check: Criminal background screening and professional reference verification
Most states also require applicants to complete coursework in professional ethics, state laws governing mental health practice, and substance abuse treatment. Continuing education requirements maintain professional competency after initial licensure, typically mandating 20-40 hours of approved training every two years.
Education Requirements
The educational foundation for LMFT licensure begins with a bachelor's degree, followed by specialized graduate training in marriage and family therapy. The quality and accreditation status of your graduate program significantly impact your licensure eligibility and career opportunities.
COAMFTE Accreditation
The Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE) establishes educational standards for MFT programs nationally. While most states don't mandate COAMFTE-accredited degrees, graduating from accredited programs offers substantial advantages, including streamlined licensure applications, enhanced professional credibility, and easier license portability between states. Some states may require additional coursework for graduates of non-COAMFTE programs.
COAMFTE-accredited programs require minimum curriculum components, including:
- Foundations of marriage and family therapy theory
- Systems perspectives and family development
- Individual development and psychopathology
- Professional ethics and legal responsibilities
- Research methods and program evaluation
- Diversity and multicultural competence
- Clinical assessment and diagnosis
- Therapeutic interventions with couples and families
Master's programs typically require 48-60 credit hours completed over 2-3 years, including substantial practicum and internship experiences. Doctoral programs (PhD or PsyD) require additional research training and advanced clinical specialization, typically spanning 4-6 years beyond the bachelor's degree.
Supervision and Clinical Hours
Post-graduate supervised clinical experience represents the most variable component of LMFT licensure requirements, with states mandating anywhere from 1,000 to 4,000 hours of supervised practice. This supervised period allows graduate-level clinicians to develop advanced clinical skills under the guidance of experienced licensed professionals.
Supervision Structure
Supervision requirements typically include specific components:
- Total Clinical Hours: Direct client contact hours (varies 1,000-4,000 hours by state)
- Supervision Hours: Minimum supervision sessions (typically 100-200 hours total)
- Group vs. Individual: Ratio of individual to group supervision varies by state
- Relational Hours: Minimum hours working with couples or families (typically 500+ hours)
- Supervisor Qualifications: Licensed LMFT or equivalent with specified years of experience
The supervision period typically ranges from 2-5 years, depending on whether clinicians pursue full-time or part-time clinical work. Many states allow supervision hours to begin during graduate internships, potentially reducing post-degree supervision time.
National Examination Requirements
The Association of Marital & Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB) administers the national MFT licensing examination used by most states. This computer-based exam assesses clinical knowledge, therapeutic skills, professional ethics, and systems-based practice competencies essential for independent MFT practice.
AMFTRB Examination Details
The national examination consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering six content domains:
- The Practice of Systemic Therapy (28%)
- Assessing, Hypothesizing, and Diagnosing (18%)
- Designing and Conducting Treatment (28%)
- Evaluating Ongoing Process and Terminating Treatment (8%)
- Managing the Therapeutic Process (8%)
- Applying Professional, Legal, and Ethical Standards (10%)
Examinations are offered year-round at designated testing centers, with results typically available within 2-4 weeks. The examination fee is approximately $395, with additional costs for study materials and preparatory courses. Passing rates vary but typically range from 70-80% for first-time test-takers from accredited programs.
Several states (California, Maryland, Texas) require additional jurisprudence examinations covering state-specific laws, regulations, and ethical standards governing mental health practice within their jurisdiction.
State-by-State Requirements Table
The following comprehensive table details specific licensure requirements for every U.S. state and Washington, D.C. Requirements include minimum education, supervised clinical hours, examination components, and links to state licensing boards. Click on state names to jump to detailed information or visit the licensing board directly.
| State | Education Requirement | Supervised Experience | Examination | Licensing Board |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
Two Years Post-Degree, Full Time | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | AL Board |
| Alaska | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
2 Years / 3,000 Post-Degree Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | AK Board |
| Arizona | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
3,200 Post-Degree Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | AZ Board |
| Arkansas | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
3 Years Post-Degree | National MFT Exam + Oral Exam | AR Board |
| California | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
2 Years / 3,000 Post-Degree Hours | LMFT Law & Ethics / LMFT Clinical | CA Board |
| Colorado | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
Two Years / 2,000 Post-Degree Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | CO Board |
| Connecticut | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
1,000 Hours of Direct Client Care | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | CT Dept |
| Delaware | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
1,600 Post-Degree Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | DE Board |
| Florida | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
Two Years / 1,500 Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | FL Board |
| Georgia | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
Three Years / 2,000 Clinical Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | GA Board |
| Hawaii | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
24 Months / 1,000 Hours in MFT | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | HI Dept |
| Idaho | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
Two Years / 3,000 Post-Degree Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | ID Board |
| Illinois | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
Two-Five Years / 3,000 Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | IL Board |
| Indiana | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
Two Years / 1,000 Post-Degree Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | IN Board |
| Iowa | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
Two Years / 3,000 Post-Degree Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | IA Board |
| Kansas | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
4,000 Clinical Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | KS Board |
| Kentucky | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
Two Years / 1,000 Post-Degree Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | KY Board |
| Louisiana | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
Two Years / 3,000 Post-Degree Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | LA Board |
| Maine | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
Two Years / 3,000 Post-Degree Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | ME Board |
| Maryland | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
Two Years / 2,000 Post-Degree Hours | AMFTRB Exam + MD Jurisprudence Exam | MD Board |
| Massachusetts | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
Two Years / 3,360 Post-Degree Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | MA Board |
| Michigan | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
1,000 Hours of Direct Client Contact | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | MI Board |
| Minnesota | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
4,000 Post-Degree Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | MN Board |
| Mississippi | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
Two Years / 1,000 Clinical Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | MS Board |
| Missouri | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
3,000 Post-Degree Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | MO Board |
| Montana | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
3,000 Post-Degree Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | MT Board |
| Nebraska | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
Two Years / 3,000 Post-Degree Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | NE Board |
| Nevada | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
Two Years / 3,000 Post-Degree Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | NV Board |
| New Hampshire | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
Two Years / 1,000 Post-Degree Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | NH Board |
| New Jersey | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
See State Requirements Page | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | NJ Board |
| New Mexico | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
Two Years / 1,000 Post-Degree Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | NM Board |
| New York | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
1,500 Post-Degree Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | NY Board |
| North Carolina | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
Two Years / 1,500 Post-Degree Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | NC Board |
| North Dakota | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
Two Years / 2,000 Post-Degree Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | ND Board |
| Ohio | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
Two Years / 1,000 Client Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | OH Board |
| Oklahoma | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
Two Years / 1,000 Post-Degree Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | OK Board |
| Oregon | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
Two Years / 2,000 Post-Degree Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | OR Board |
| Pennsylvania | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
See State Requirements Page | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | PA Board |
| Rhode Island | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
Two Years / 2,000 Direct Client Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | RI Board |
| South Carolina | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
Two Years / 1,500 Post-Degree Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | SC Board |
| South Dakota | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
Two Years / 1,700 MFT Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | SD Board |
| Tennessee | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
Two Years / 1,000 Post-Degree Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | TN Board |
| Texas | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
Two Years / 3,000 Post-Degree Hours | AMFTRB Exam + TX Jurisprudence | TX Board |
| Utah | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
4,000 Post-Degree Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | UT Board |
| Vermont | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
Two Years / 3,000 Post-Degree Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | VT Board |
| Virginia | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
See State Requirements Page | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | VA Board |
| Washington | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
Two Years / 3,000 Post-Degree Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | WA Dept |
| West Virginia | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
See State Requirements Page | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | WV Board |
| Wisconsin | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
Two Years / 3,000 Post-Degree Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | WI Dept |
| Wyoming | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
3,000 Clinical Hours | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | WY Board |
| District of Columbia | Bachelor's + Master's or PhD Find Schools |
See State Requirements Page | National MFT Exam (AMFTRB) | DC Dept |
State Requirement Comparisons
Licensure requirements vary substantially across states, with supervision hour requirements representing the most significant variation. Understanding these differences helps prospective LMFTs make informed decisions about where to pursue initial licensure and eventual practice.
Shortest Supervision Requirements
Several states offer more accessible licensure pathways with reduced supervision hours:
- Connecticut: 1,000 hours of direct client care specifically (the shortest direct clinical requirement nationally)
- Michigan: 1,000 hours of direct client contact
- Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Oklahoma, Tennessee: 1,000 post-degree hours (may include indirect hours)
- Florida: 1,500 hours over two years
- New York, North Carolina: 1,500 post-degree hours
These states offer faster pathways to independent practice, potentially reducing the supervised period to 18-24 months for full-time clinicians. Note that states specifying "direct client contact" or "direct client care" hours require face-to-face clinical work, while "post-degree hours" may allow a mix of direct and indirect clinical activities.
Most Extensive Requirements
States requiring the highest supervision hours include:
- Kansas, Minnesota, Utah: 4,000 post-degree hours (highest nationally)
- Arizona: 3,200 post-degree hours
- Massachusetts: 3,360 post-degree hours
- Alaska, Idaho, Louisiana, Maine, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, Texas, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin: 3,000 post-degree hours
These extensive requirements typically extend the supervised period to 3-5 years, particularly for clinicians working part-time or in settings with limited clinical hours. While more demanding, these rigorous requirements may produce more thoroughly prepared clinicians.
State Reciprocity and License Portability
License portability between states varies significantly. Most states offer licensure by endorsement for applicants licensed in other jurisdictions, but requirements differ substantially. Key considerations include:
- COAMFTE-accredited degrees facilitate interstate mobility
- Some states require additional supervision hours or examinations
- Jurisprudence examinations may be required even with existing licenses
- Continuing education from the original state may not transfer
Prospective therapists planning eventual relocation should research reciprocity agreements and consider pursuing initial licensure in states with requirements exceeding their intended practice location. This strategy ensures qualification for licensure transfer without additional supervised experience.
Salary and Career Outlook
Marriage and family therapy represents a growing professional field with strong employment projections and competitive compensation. Understanding salary ranges and career prospects helps prospective therapists assess the return on their educational and time investment.
National Salary Data
According to May 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, LMFTs earned the following nationally:
- National Median Salary: $63,780 annually
- Entry Level (10th Percentile): $42,610
- Experienced (75th Percentile): $85,020
- Top Earners (90th Percentile): $111,610+
Salary varies significantly based on geographic location, practice setting, specialization, and years of experience. Urban areas and states with higher costs of living typically offer higher compensation. Private practice LMFTs with established practices often exceed median salaries substantially, particularly when accepting insurance and offering specialized services.
Highest Paying States
Top-paying states for LMFTs based on May 2024 BLS data include:
- Connecticut: $76,930 median (highest nationally)
- Colorado: $69,990 median
- California: $63,780 median
- Alaska: $62,220 median
- New Jersey: Strong compensation in metropolitan areas
These states combine higher base salaries with strong demand for marriage and family therapy services, creating optimal earning potential for licensed professionals. Cost of living variations should be considered when evaluating salary competitiveness across states.
Employment Outlook
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 15% employment growth for marriage and family therapists from 2022 to 2032, significantly faster than the average for all occupations. This growth reflects several factors:
- Increased recognition of mental health
- Growing acceptance of therapy for relationship issues
- Insurance coverage expansion for mental health services
- An aging population requiring family caregiving support
- Rising demand for specialized couples and family interventions
Job prospects remain strongest in urban and suburban areas, community mental health centers, and integrated healthcare settings. Telehealth expansion has increased access to MFT services in underserved rural areas, creating new practice opportunities.
Find a Marriage and Family Therapy Degree in Your State
It's important to choose a school that offers the degree program that checks all the boxes for you, whether that's providing online courses or offering a combined master's and doctoral program. To get even more detail about degree program options in your area, find your state below. You may also consider online MFT degree options available from many accredited colleges & universities.
- AL Alabama
- AK Alaska
- AZ Arizona
- AR Arkansas
- CA California
- CO Colorado
- CT Connecticut
- DE Delaware
- FL Florida
- GA Georgia
- HI Hawaii
- ID Idaho
- IL Illinois
- IN Indiana
- IA Iowa
- KS Kansas
- KY Kentucky
- LA Louisiana
- ME Maine
- MD Maryland
- MA Massachusetts
- MI Michigan
- MN Minnesota
- MS Mississippi
- MO Missouri
- MT Montana
- NE Nebraska
- NV Nevada
- NH New Hampshire
- NJ New Jersey
- NM New Mexico
- NY New York
- NC North Carolina
- ND North Dakota
- OH Ohio
- OK Oklahoma
- OR Oregon
- PA Pennsylvania
- RI Rhode Island
- SC South Carolina
- SD South Dakota
- TN Tennessee
- TX Texas
- UT Utah
- VT Vermont
- VA Virginia
- WA Washington
- WV West Virginia
- WI Wisconsin
- WY Wyoming
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a licensed marriage and family therapist?
The complete path to LMFT licensure typically requires 6-9 years from bachelor's degree completion. This includes 2-3 years for a master's degree, plus 2-5 years of supervised clinical experience, depending on state requirements and full-time versus part-time work. The timeline varies based on program structure, supervision hour requirements, and individual circumstances.
Can I practice as an MFT while completing supervision hours?
Yes, but with restrictions. Most states offer associate or temporary licenses allowing supervised practice while accumulating required hours. Associate MFTs must work under qualified supervision and typically cannot practice independently, accept certain insurance panels, or represent themselves as fully licensed. Specific restrictions vary by state.
Do I need a COAMFTE-accredited degree to become licensed?
Not in all states, but COAMFTE accreditation offers significant advantages. While most states accept degrees from regionally accredited institutions meeting specific curriculum requirements, COAMFTE accreditation streamlines the licensure process, enhances professional credibility, and facilitates license portability between states. Some states strongly prefer or require COAMFTE accreditation.
What's the difference between LMFT and LPC licensure?
LMFTs specialize in relational and systemic therapy, viewing problems through the lens of family systems and relationship patterns. Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) typically focus on individual mental health treatment, though many work with couples and families. Educational programs differ significantly, with MFT programs emphasizing systemic theory and relational interventions while counseling programs focus more broadly on individual psychotherapy.
Can I transfer my LMFT license to another state?
Most states offer licensure by endorsement for therapists licensed in other jurisdictions, but requirements vary. Transfer typically requires verification of your original license, proof of supervised hours, and may require additional examinations or coursework. COAMFTE-accredited degrees and supervision hours exceeding minimum state requirements facilitate easier transfer. Always research specific state requirements before relocating.
What's the AMFTRB exam pass rate?
AMFTRB does not officially publish pass rates for the national examination. However, program-level data suggests first-time pass rates typically range from 70-80% for graduates of accredited programs. Success rates depend on preparation quality, educational program rigor, and clinical experience depth. The examination tests comprehensive knowledge of systemic therapy, ethics, assessment, treatment planning, and professional practice standards.
How much does LMFT licensure cost?
Total licensure costs vary significantly by state but typically include application fees ($100-$300), examination fees ($395 for AMFTRB), background check fees ($50-$100), and initial license fees ($150-$400). Additional costs include supervision fees during the pre-licensure period (often $75-$150 per supervision hour) and continuing education for license renewal. Total investment from degree completion to full licensure can range from $ 3,000 to over $10,000, depending on state and supervision arrangements.
What's the difference between LMFT and LCSW?
LMFTs specialize in relational therapy using systemic approaches, while Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs) apply broader biopsychosocial perspectives addressing individual, family, and environmental factors. LCSWs typically receive training in case management, community resources, and policy advocacy alongside clinical skills. Both can provide psychotherapy, but educational emphases and theoretical frameworks differ substantially.
Can I become an LMFT with a psychology degree?
Yes, but you'll need a specific graduate degree. While bachelor's degrees in psychology, social work, or related fields satisfy undergraduate requirements, you must complete a master's or doctoral program in marriage and family therapy or a closely related field meeting your state's specific curriculum requirements. Some states accept degrees in counseling or psychology with supplemental MFT coursework.
Do I need liability insurance during supervision?
Yes, professional liability insurance is essential during supervised practice. Most employers and supervisors require coverage, and many states mandate insurance for associate licensees. Professional liability insurance protects against malpractice claims and typically costs $200-$500 annually for associate-level coverage. Coverage should be maintained throughout your professional career.
Can I complete supervision hours part-time?
Yes, most states allow part-time accumulation of supervised hours, though this extends the timeline to full licensure. Part-time practice typically means the supervision period lasts 3-5 years rather than 2-3 years. Some states impose minimum or maximum timeframes for completing required hours, so verify your state's specific regulations.
Are online MFT degrees accepted for licensure?
Accredited online MFT programs are generally accepted, but verification of program accreditation is essential. COAMFTE-accredited online programs meet the same rigorous standards as on-campus programs and typically satisfy state educational requirements. Ensure any online program includes sufficient in-person clinical training components, as most states require substantial supervised face-to-face clinical experience.
What continuing education is required for license renewal?
Continuing education requirements vary by state but typically mandate 20-40 hours of approved training every two years. Common required topics include ethics, domestic violence, cultural competency, and substance abuse. Specific requirements vary significantly, so consult your state licensing board for exact mandates. Many professional associations offer continuing education programs satisfying state requirements.
Can I maintain licensure in multiple states simultaneously?
Yes, you can hold active licenses in multiple states by meeting each jurisdiction's requirements and paying respective fees. Multi-state licensure benefits therapists who provide telehealth services to clients in different states or maintain practice locations across state lines. Each state requires separate applications, renewal fees, and compliance with specific continuing education requirements.
What's required to supervise MFT associates or interns?
Supervisor qualifications vary by state but typically require holding an active LMFT license for 3-5 years minimum, completing approved supervisor training (often 30-40 hours), and maintaining clinical practice. Some states require specific supervisor credentials or additional examinations. Supervisor requirements ensure qualified oversight during critical professional development periods.
Key Takeaways
- LMFT licensure requires a master's degree in marriage and family therapy or a closely related field, 1,000-4,000 supervised clinical hours, depending on the state, and passing the national AMFTRB examination
- COAMFTE accreditation is preferred but not required in most states, though it streamlines licensure and enhances license portability
- Complete licensure timeline typically spans 6-9 years from bachelor's degree completion, with 2-5 years of post-graduate supervised experience
- National median salary for LMFTs is $63,780 (May 2024 BLS), with significant geographic variation, and Connecticut offering the highest median at $76,930
- Employment for marriage and family therapists is projected to grow 15% from 2022 to 2032, significantly faster than average for all occupations
- State requirements vary substantially, with Connecticut requiring 1,000 hours of direct client contact while Kansas, Minnesota, and Utah mandate 4,000 hours of supervision
- Most states offer licensure by endorsement for therapists licensed in other jurisdictions, though requirements and reciprocity agreements vary
Ready to Begin Your LMFT Career Journey?
Explore accredited marriage and family therapy programs that align with your career goals and state licensure requirements. Compare program options, specializations, and delivery formats to find the perfect educational pathway.
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.Important Disclaimer: Licensure requirements change periodically. While this guide provides current information as of October 2025, prospective therapists should verify all requirements directly with their state licensing board before making educational or career decisions. State boards represent the definitive authority on licensure policies and procedures.
