MFT Degrees, Schools, and Careers in Maine
Due to the small size of the population, there are not a large number of opportunities for individuals seeking graduate degrees specifically within marriage and family therapy (MFT) within the state of Maine. In fact, there are no programs that are recognized by the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy as “accredited” programs (see below)! However, this does not mean that interested individuals cannot pursue a career in MFT; non-accredited programs in MFT or programs accredited by other associations in related fields, such as counseling, may meet the state’s requirements for licensure.
The state does have a two universities, Husson University and the University of Southern Maine, that offer accredited counseling degrees that will almost certainly contain overlapping curriculum to that of an MFT program. But neither school has a specific MFT track as part of the larger counseling program. It may be worth checking with both or either school to see how much overlap is there and whether it might be worth enrolling.
Online MFT Degrees in Maine
There are no programs that are based in Maine that offer MFT training and are based completely online. However, two online-only programs are currently accredited by COAMFTE—Capella University, which offers a M.A. in MFT, and Northcentral University, which offers both a M.A. and PhD in MFT.
Learn more about an online MFT degree.
MFT Accreditation in Maine
MFT training programs are considered accredited when a given organization provides them with a “stamp of approval.” Within the field of marriage and family therapy, the main accrediting board is the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE). As stated previously, there are no COAMFTE-accredited programs within the state of Maine, but it is important to note that this does not mean that individuals cannot practice as licensed MFTs within the state.
The Maine Legislature’s requirements for licensure note that an individual simply must attend an “accredited institution or program approved by the board. Other programs in closely related fields, such as mental health counseling, may meet the designated requirements outlined by the government. In addition to the degree, all individuals with an MFT must demonstrate 2 years of clinical experience (1,000+ hours) after receiving their degree.
Career Opportunities for MFTs in Maine
Due to its smaller population, only 80 employees are currently working in Maine as licensed MFTs. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates a average salary of $57,280 among MFTs in Maine, which is slightly higher than the national average of $48,600. Overall, job prospects for MFTs within the US are extremely positive; job growth for MFTs is estimated to be around 20 percent over the next 10 years! So, students that are planning to graduate within the next several years with an MFT degree can count on having increased opportunities in settings ranging from hospitals and private practice, to schools and government positions. Read more about ME MFT licensure requirements.
Marriage and Family Therapists Salary in Maine
| Location | 10% | 25% | Median | 75% | 90% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | $33,140 | $39,130 | $51,340 | $68,020 | $92,930 |
| Maine | $35,140 | $39,460 | $57,150 | $65,080 | $95,820 |
| Portland-South Portland-Biddeford, ME | $25,760 | $27,860 | $50,930 | $58,010 | $62,240 |
Table data taken from 2020 BLS (http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes211013.htm)
