How Long Does It Take To Become a Marriage and Family Therapist in 2025?

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Marriage may be one of life's happiest moments, but it comes with a lot of responsibility and points of potential conflict. In times when intimate conversations are not enough to resolve marital issues, couples rely on marriage and family therapists (MFTs) to help them hurdle the biggest concerns. Research states that 70% to 90% of couples find the therapy these professionals provide beneficial.

This guide sheds light on the responsibilities of a marriage and family therapist and the time it normally takes aspirants to become one. In addition, the write-up offers information on the education and licensure requirements, relevant skills, salary projections, career advancement opportunities, and other areas learners will find useful.

Key Things You Should Know About Becoming a Marriage and Family Therapist in 2025

MFTs focus on understanding how personal issues are connected to relationships, using therapy to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and promote healthier dynamics.
Becoming a licensed MFT typically requires 6 to 8 years of education and training.
The total cost of becoming a marriage and family therapist can range from $75,000 to $100,000 on the lower end to $200,000 or more on the higher end.
The employment of marriage and family therapists is projected to increase by a notable 16% from 2023 to 2033.

What is a marriage and family therapist?
How long does it take to become a licensed marriage and family therapist?
What are the licensure requirements for aspiring marriage and family therapists?
Where does a marriage and family therapist work?
How much does it cost to become a marriage and family therapist?
What are the necessary skills to become a successful marriage and family therapist?
What are the career advancement opportunities for marriage and family therapists?
Is there a high demand for marriage and family therapists?
What are the legal and ethical considerations for marriage and family therapists?
How much does a marriage and family therapist make?
What are alternative careers for marriage and family therapists?
How Can Online Education Options Enhance Your MFT Career?
What are the common challenges faced by marriage and family therapists?
Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Marriage and Family Therapist

What is a marriage and family therapist?

As licensed mental health experts, marriage and family therapists empower individuals, couples, and families to cultivate greater emotional well-being and stronger relationships. Their specialized training equips them to deeply understand the intricate interplay of family dynamics, relationship patterns, and life's difficulties. By providing tailored support, insightful guidance, and effective tools, MFTs facilitate healing and clearer communication, recognizing the profound impact of healthy connections on overall mental and emotional health.

A common question by learners is, "What is the difference between MFT and LMFT?"

The primary difference between an MFT and an LMFT lies in licensure status. An MFT typically refers to someone who has completed the required master’s degree program in marriage and family therapy but has not yet fulfilled all state licensure requirements, including supervised clinical hours and passing the licensing exam. In contrast, an LMFT (licensed marriage and family therapist) is a professional who has met all these requirements, holds a state license, and is authorized to practice independently without supervision.

General Responsibilities of Marriage and Family Therapists

Conduct Mental Health Assessments: Marriage and family therapists assess clients’ emotional and psychological health by conducting interviews, observing behavior, and using diagnostic tools to identify patterns and underlying relational issues.
Provide Psychotherapy: They offer therapy sessions to individuals, couples, and families, using evidence-based methods to help clients address mental health concerns and improve their relationships.
Improve Communication and Conflict Resolution: MFTs teach clients effective communication skills and guide them in resolving conflicts, helping family members or partners understand each other and build stronger connections.
Develop and Monitor Treatment Plans: They collaborate with clients to set therapy goals, create personalized treatment plans, and regularly track progress to ensure meaningful outcomes.
Maintain Clinical Records: Marriage and family therapists keep accurate and confidential records of sessions, treatment plans, and client progress in accordance with legal and ethical standards.
Collaborate with Other Professionals: They work with other healthcare providers, such as psychiatrists, physicians, and school counselors, to ensure clients receive comprehensive, coordinated care.
Educate Clients and Families: MFTs provide education on mental health, coping skills, parenting techniques, and relationship-building strategies to empower clients outside of therapy sessions.
Uphold Ethical and Legal Standards: They are responsible for maintaining client confidentiality, obtaining informed consent, and following all professional codes of conduct and state licensing regulations.

How long does it take to become a licensed marriage and family therapist?

Becoming a licensed MFT typically requires 6 to 8 years of education and training. This includes earning a relevant bachelor’s and master’s degree, completing supervised clinical experience, and passing a national licensing exam. The process is structured to ensure that MFTs are well-prepared to support individuals, couples, and families in addressing emotional and relational challenges.

Here is a breakdown of each phase:

Obtain Bachelor’s Degree (4 years): Most aspiring MFTs begin with a bachelor’s degree, often in psychology, social work, or a related field. This foundational education provides essential knowledge about human behavior and development, preparing students for graduate-level study. You should, however, know the difference between a social work vs psychology degree so you could take on the best educational path for you.
Master’s Degree (2–3 years): Aspiring marriage and family therapists must obtain a master's degree in marriage and family therapy or a similar field. These programs are designed to provide a comprehensive education, combining theoretical coursework with supervised clinical experience to equip students with the specific skills and understanding needed to work with family systems and various therapy techniques. Those who prefer to study at home can choose from the best online MFT programs.
Supervised Clinical Experience (2 years or 2,000–4,000 hours): Candidates for MFT licensure are required to complete a supervised clinical experience after obtaining their master's degree. This provides the opportunity to translate classroom learning into practical skills within real-world settings, all under the guidance of experienced supervisors, ultimately fostering professional competence and assurance.
Licensing Exam (a few months): Candidates must pass a state-approved licensing exam, such as the National MFT Exam, before becoming fully licensed. Successfully passing this exam demonstrates that the therapist meets the professional standards required to provide safe and effective care. After completing the exam, candidates can apply for a license, which will soon be issued.

Learners who want to fast-track the education process can pursue accelerated MFT programs. However, keep in mind that the typical trade-off is heavier course loads per term.

According to Zippia, 39% of MFTs in the United States are psychology majors, 18% are family therapy majors, 9% are counseling psychology majors, and 5% are clinical psychology majors.

The chart below shows that a majority of MFTs are women.

What are the licensure requirements for aspiring marriage and family therapists?

The licensure process of how to become a licensed marriage and family therapist entails earning a master's degree, which explores the principles and practices of marriage and family therapy, and completing hours of clinical experience. Candidates must then pass a standardized exam before they can become licensed marriage and family therapists.

Here are the stages of the licensure process along with their corresponding requisites:

Earn a Master's Degree: Complete a master’s degree specifically in Marriage and Family Therapy or a closely related field (such as Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Psychology, or Social Work with an MFT specialization). The program must usually be accredited by COAMFTE or another recognized accrediting body. Aspirants must know what is the difference between MSW and MFT degree programs when picking a specialization that aligns with their goals.
Complete Supervised Clinical Hours: After graduation, candidates must complete 2,000 to 4,000 hours of postgraduate supervised clinical experience. This period allows new therapists to practice under the guidance of a licensed professional while developing advanced clinical skills.
Pass a National or State Exam: Most states require passing the National MFT Examination administered by the Association of Marital & Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB). Some states may also require an additional state-specific exam on laws and ethics.
Apply for State Licensure: Submit an application to the state’s licensing board, providing proof of education, supervised experience, and exam scores. A criminal background check and fingerprinting are often required as part of the application process.
Maintain Licensure Through Continuing Education: Once licensed, MFTs must complete continuing education (often 20–40 hours every 1–2 years, depending on the state) to keep their license active and stay updated on professional practices.

There is considerable demand for marriage and family therapy, which is why licensure candidates should complete their education and training. Besides the large share of couples who seek therapy, 40% of families in the country are projected to consult with therapists.

Where does a marriage and family therapist work?

MFTs can practice in a variety of settings, including organizations outside the healthcare sphere. After all, many organizations are big on creating inclusive environments that uphold the mental and social welfare of each employee. Professionals with a psychology specialization in MFT and who have earned experience in dealing with different types of clients can also open their own therapy firms.

Private Practices: Many MFTs run their own private practices or work within group practices, offering therapy to individuals, couples, and families on a flexible schedule.
Mental Health Clinics: They often work in community mental health centers, providing affordable therapy services to diverse populations dealing with a range of mental health concerns.
Hospitals and Healthcare Systems: Some MFTs are part of hospital behavioral health teams, helping patients cope with emotional issues related to medical conditions, trauma, or family crises.
Schools and Universities: MFTs can work in educational settings, offering counseling to students, supporting family-school relationships, or teaching in academic programs. Take note, however, that an MFT's work is different from that of an educational psychologist. In fact, there is also a difference between educational vs school psychology.
Social Service Agencies: They may be employed by agencies that focus on child welfare, family services, substance abuse treatment, or crisis intervention.
Residential Treatment Centers: In these centers, MFTs work with clients facing serious mental health or substance abuse issues, often providing both individual and group therapy.
Military and Veterans Organizations: Some MFTs specialize in working with military personnel and veterans, helping them and their families deal with the emotional impacts of service.
Corporate or Organizational Settings: Larger companies sometimes hire MFTs for employee assistance programs (EAPs) to provide counseling services that support workplace mental health.

How much does it cost to become a marriage and family therapist?

When combining the costs of undergraduate and graduate education, clinical experience, licensing exams, and ongoing professional development, the total cost of becoming a marriage and family therapist can range from $75,000 to $100,000 on the lower end to $200,000 or more on the higher end. Here is a breakdown of the possible costs:

Bachelor’s Degree: The cost of earning a bachelor’s degree varies significantly based on the type of institution. In-state public universities typically charge between $10,000 and $40,000 per year, while private colleges can range from $30,000 to $50,000 annually. Over four years, total expenses can range from approximately $40,000 to $200,000.
Graduate Degree (Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy): Tuition for a master’s program in marriage and family therapy depends on whether the school is public or private. Public universities generally charge between $15,000 and $30,000 per year, whereas private institutions may charge $30,000 to $60,000 annually. For a 2- to 3-year program, total costs can range from $30,000 to $180,000.
Supervised Clinical Experience: After graduation, candidates must complete supervised clinical hours, which are often unpaid or low-paying, potentially resulting in lost income during this 1- to 2-year period.
Licensing Exam Fees: To become licensed, candidates must pass the licensing exam administered by the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB), which typically costs between $250 and $350.
Continuing Education and License Renewal: Maintaining licensure requires ongoing professional development, with continuing education costs usually ranging from $200 to $500 per year depending on chosen courses or workshops.
Additional Expenses: Other costs throughout the process include textbooks, study materials, licensure application fees, and professional organization memberships, which generally add up to between $1,000 and $2,000.

The visual below shows the industries that employ the highest number of MFTs.

What are the necessary skills to become a successful marriage and family therapist?

To become successful MFTs, aspirants need a balance of clinical, interpersonal, and organizational skills. The idea is to make the clients comfortable enough to share their concerns before analyzing scenarios and providing ideal courses of action. The skills aspirants need to develop include the following:

Active Listening: Marriage and family therapists must listen attentively to what clients say and what remains unspoken, capturing subtle cues to fully grasp their concerns and emotions.
Empathy and Compassion: It is vital to show genuine understanding without judgment. Empathy fosters trust and helps create a safe, supportive space for clients to share.
Strong Communication Skills: Therapists clearly convey ideas, provide constructive feedback, and skillfully guide conversations to encourage openness, self-reflection, and meaningful progress.
Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: MFTs analyze complex family interactions and emotional challenges, crafting tailored treatment plans that effectively address each client’s unique needs.
Conflict Resolution Abilities: Because many clients seek help with relationship struggles, therapists must be adept at mediating disputes and teaching healthy communication techniques.
Cultural Competency: Successful therapists respect and adapt to diverse cultural, religious, and individual backgrounds, ensuring their approach is inclusive and relevant to each client.
Patience and Emotional Resilience: Therapy often unfolds gradually and can be emotionally demanding. MFTs must remain patient, composed under stress, and capable of managing their own feelings.
Ethical Judgment: Protecting client confidentiality, maintaining professional boundaries, and upholding ethical standards are essential for building trust and ensuring responsible care.
Organizational and Documentation Skills: Keeping thorough client records, managing appointments, and handling administrative tasks efficiently are critical, especially for those in private practice.
Commitment to Ongoing Learning: The mental health field is constantly evolving, so effective MFTs pursue continuous education through workshops, certifications, and staying current with research.

These skills are also similar to the ones social workers need. Check out social worker requirements if you are interested in focusing more on social work than in counseling.

The skills that appear most often on the CVs of US-based MFTs are social work (36.4%), patients (9.4%), crisis intervention (6.2%), substance abuse (4.6%), and mental illness (3.9%).

What are the career advancement opportunities for marriage and family therapists?

Marriage and family therapists have several career advancement opportunities as they gain experience, specialize, and pursue additional education or certifications. They can also become business owners, which potentially expands their returns while gaining experience as professionals. Here are the main paths for career growth:

Private Practice Ownership: Many experienced MFTs open their own private practices, allowing them to set their own schedules, specialize in preferred areas (like couples therapy or trauma counseling), and potentially increase their income.
Clinical Supervision and Training: Licensed and experienced MFTs can become clinical supervisors, mentoring and overseeing new therapists as they complete their required supervised hours for licensure.
Specialization in Niche Areas: Therapists can specialize in areas like sex therapy, addiction counseling, trauma-focused therapy, child and adolescent therapy, or military family counseling to deepen their expertise and attract specific client groups.
Leadership and Administrative Roles: Some MFTs move into leadership positions, such as clinical directors, program managers, or executive directors in mental health organizations, healthcare systems, or nonprofit agencies.
Teaching and Academia: With additional credentials or a doctoral degree, MFTs can teach at colleges and universities, train future therapists, and conduct research in the field of marriage and family therapy.
Earning a Doctorate (PhD or DMFT): Earning a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or Doctorate of Marriage and Family Therapy (DMFT) can open doors to advanced clinical roles, research positions, consulting, and university faculty appointments.
Integration into Healthcare Teams: A significant trend in healthcare is the increasing inclusion of MFTs in integrated teams, where they partner with physicians, nurses, and social workers to deliver holistic patient care.
Writing, Speaking, and Consulting: Experienced therapists can also build careers as authors, public speakers, corporate consultants, or workshop facilitators, sharing their expertise with wider audiences.

Is there a high demand for marriage and family therapists?

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of marriage and family therapists is projected to increase by a notable 16% from 2023 to 2033, dwarfing the national average (4%). This will bring the number of MFTs in the country from 76,000 in 2023 to 88,200 by 2033.

In the given period, aspirants and other job seekers can expect about 7,500 openings for MFTs each year. This is a conservative projection compared to Indeed's job portal, which states that there are currently over 27,000 openings for marriage and family therapists in the country.

Some industries afford far more opportunities than others. According to the BLS, the sectors that employ the highest number of MFTs are offices of other health practitioners (20,920), individual and family services (20,370), outpatient care centers (9,540), state government offices (3,940), and residential intellectual and developmental disability and mental health facilities (1,970).

Meanwhile, the US states with the highest employment levels for MFTs are California (30,890), Minnesota (4,230), New Jersey (3,900), Pennsylvania (2,640), and Tennessee (2,130).

What are the legal and ethical considerations for marriage and family therapists?

Marriage and family therapists must navigate a framework of legal obligations and ethical standards to safeguard client welfare and maintain professional integrity. Adhering to regulations—such as confidentiality mandates (including HIPAA compliance) and informed consent procedures—is essential in protecting client information and rights. Professionals are expected to balance dual responsibilities: providing empathetic, effective counseling while upholding strict boundaries and mandatory reporting requirements when encountering risks of harm. Staying informed about evolving statutory laws and binding codes from organizations like the AAMFT is critical to prevent legal repercussions and ethical conflicts. Regular engagement in continuing education, including exploring options like best online MFT programs, further reinforces best practices and supports informed decision-making in complex professional scenarios.

How much does a marriage and family therapist make?

Data from the BLS shows that the average annual salary of marriage and family therapists in the United States is $68,730, while the median annual salary is $63,780, with the latter being considerably higher than the collective median annual pay of all US professions ($49,500). MFTs can receive significantly higher salaries should they pursue opportunities in high-demand states and sectors.

The industries that dole out the highest average annual salaries for marriage and family therapists are home healthcare services ($122,120), elementary and secondary schools ($89,000), state government offices ($84,770), religious organizations ($81,600), and local government units ($80,930).

The chart below shows the US states with the highest average annual salaries: New Jersey ($92,120), Maryland ($87,090), and Utah ($83,980).

What are alternative careers for marriage and family therapists?

Beyond traditional therapy, the diverse skills of marriage and family therapists are transferable to numerous related careers. Their training in mental health, interpersonal dynamics, and counseling, coupled with their ability to analyze situations and determine effective strategies, opens doors to various alternative paths. So, what can you do with an MFT degree? Here are some examples of careers MFTs can pursue:

Clinical Social Worker: MFTs can transition into social work roles, focusing on helping individuals and families navigate social services, healthcare, and mental health care, especially with vulnerable populations.
Mental Health Counselor: Given their comprehensive training in therapy, MFTs possess the necessary skills to function effectively as mental health counselors in diverse environments such as hospitals, schools, and community centers, providing support to individuals navigating anxiety, depression, and various other mental health challenges.
School Counselor: MFTs can work in educational settings, helping students cope with academic stress, bullying, family issues, or emotional challenges. They may also offer career guidance and college readiness support.
Life Coach: MFTs can effectively leverage their expertise in goal setting, personal development strategies, and understanding interpersonal dynamics in the field of life coaching, empowering clients to attain their desired personal and professional outcomes.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Counselor: Many MFTs work with companies or organizations as EAP counselors, offering mental health support, counseling, and stress management strategies to employees and their families.
Substance Abuse Counselor: With additional training or certification in addiction, MFTs can transition to substance abuse counseling, providing support to individuals and families dealing with addiction-related issues.
Health Educator or Consultant: MFTs can work in public health, promoting mental wellness and healthy family dynamics through workshops, speaking engagements, and consulting for organizations focused on mental health and wellness.
Marriage and Family Therapy Program Instructor: MFTs can pursue a teaching career, educating future marriage and family therapists at colleges or universities, or even offering workshops and training for professionals in the field.
Researcher or Research Coordinator: MFTs with an interest in academia and research can work in mental health or behavioral science research, studying family dynamics, therapy techniques, or the efficacy of various counseling methods.
Program Director for Nonprofits: Experienced MFTs can take on leadership roles within nonprofit organizations that focus on mental health, family welfare, domestic violence, or child welfare, overseeing programs that support community well-being.

How Can Online Education Options Enhance Your MFT Career?

Accessible online education not only broadens your clinical knowledge but also offers flexibility to balance practice and professional development. High-quality online programs can accelerate career progression by providing up-to-date methodologies and specialized tracks that align with evolving industry standards. Explore options such as CACREP accredited online master's counseling programs to benefit from programs designed for affordability, rigorous training, and comprehensive support that can help refine both clinical and managerial skills.

What are the common challenges faced by marriage and family therapists?

Marriage and family therapists frequently encounter obstacles such as managing emotional fatigue, setting and maintaining professional boundaries, and addressing administrative complexities including insurance and billing requirements. Establishing and expanding a client base in a competitive market can also be challenging, while staying updated with evolving treatment methodologies requires ongoing professional development. Utilizing strategic marketing techniques and exploring cost-effective educational enhancements, like affordable colleges for counseling programs online, can help professionals navigate these hurdles effectively.

Here's What Marriage and Family Therapists Have to Say About Their Jobs

"Witnessing families reconnect and individuals heal through therapy is incredibly rewarding; it's a privilege to guide people toward stronger relationships and greater well-being, knowing I've made a tangible difference in their lives. The intellectual stimulation of understanding complex dynamics combined with the emotional connection to my clients makes this a truly fulfilling career." - Lisa

"As a marriage and family therapist, I appreciate the variety in my work—no two sessions are the same, and I get to support couples and families through some of their most challenging and rewarding moments. It’s incredibly rewarding to know I’m making a lasting impact on people’s lives." - Mindy

"The impact I can have on fostering understanding and growth within families and couples is what I value most about being a marriage and family therapist. It’s deeply meaningful to create a safe space for vulnerability and to see clients develop the tools they need to thrive. The trust they place in me and the positive changes they achieve are constant sources of inspiration." - Natalie

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Marriage and Family Therapist

Can you become a marriage and family therapist with only a bachelor's degree or less?

No, an individual cannot become an MFT with only a bachelor's degree. To pursue a career as one, an aspirant must earn a master's degree in marriage and family therapy or a related field, complete supervised clinical experience, and pass a licensing exam. While a bachelor's degree is required for graduate school admission, additional education and training are necessary to become a licensed MFT.

What is the difference between a psychologist and a marriage and family therapist?

Psychologists generally hold doctoral degrees and have a broader focus on individual mental health, employing various assessment and treatment methods. On the other hand, MFTs, typically with master's degrees, specialize in understanding and treating mental health issues within the context of relationships and family systems, emphasizing interpersonal dynamics.

How can you open a private practice as a marriage and family therapist?

To open a private practice as MFTs, aspirants must first complete the necessary education and clinical training and obtain licensure in their state. Afterward, they should set up a business, which includes registering the practice, obtaining necessary insurance, and establishing office space. Additionally, MFTs should build a client base through networking, marketing, and joining professional associations to attract clients.

What is the difference between an MFT and an LPC?

The primary difference between an MFT and a licensed professional counselor (LPC) lies in their areas of focus and training. MFTs specialize in treating individuals, couples, and families by addressing relationship dynamics and family systems, while LPCs provide therapy to individuals dealing with a wide range of mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, and trauma. While both hold similar licensure and training, MFTs tend to emphasize relational and systemic issues, whereas LPCs may have a broader scope in treating mental health conditions.

References:

BLS (2024, April 3). 21-1013 Marriage and Family Therapists. BLS
BLS (2025, April 18). Marriage and Family Therapists. BLS
My Denver Therapy (2024, April 19). Is Your Family Struggling? Statistics Reveal the Power of Family Therapy. My Denver Therapy
Stanfield, B. (2025, February 5). What Percentage of Couples Survive Relationship Counseling and How to Improve Your Chances. Meaningful Life Counseling
Zippia (2025, January 8). Marriage And Family Therapist demographics and statistics in the US. Zippia
Zippia (2025, January 8). Marriage And Family Therapist Education Requirements. Zippia
Zippia (2025, January 8). Marriage And Family Therapist skills for your resume and career. Zippia