The licensure process for marriage and family therapists varies by state. However, there are common qualifications that you must meet in order to pursue an LMFT.
- Obtain a graduate degree. A master's degree is required to become a licensed marriage and family therapist. While a master's in marriage and family therapy (i.e., couple and family therapy) is generally preferred, some might pursue a master's degree in a similar discipline (i.e., professional counseling, mental health counseling). However, attending a master's program marriage and family therapy whose standareds align with the Comission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE) ensures that you complete the coursework and clinical experience to successfully pursue licensure post-masters. Those who do not attend a COAMFTE-aligned master's program in marriage and family therapy usually have to pursue additional coursework and supervised clinical hours outside of their program.
- Pass the national licenscing exam(s) required by your state. In order to become an LMFT, you must pass the exam requirements. This includes the National Examination required by the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB) alongside any examinations required by the state.
- Complete supervised clinical hours. In order to obtain licensure, you must complete supervised, direct client contact hours throughout your masters program and post-graduation. The number of hours required for licensure varies by state. For example, in Georgia, you need 2,500 hours of direct clinical experience to apply for full licensure, with up to 500 hours completed during your master's program. Generally, this translates to about 2 years of full-time, supervised clinical experience post-master's before you can apply for full licensure in Georgia.
- Apply for lisensure. Once you have completed all necessary clinical hours and met examination requirements, you must submit an application for licensure to your state's licensure board per your state's requirements. Applications provide proof of your education, supervised experience, and exam results.
For more information on how MFT licensure requirements (e.g., education, required post-graduate experience, supervision requirements) vary by state, review AMFTRB's State Licensure Comparison Spreadsheet here.
We highly recommend students who plan to pursue licensure in the state of Georgia visit the How To Guide: Marriage and Family Therapists on the Board of Professional Counselors, Social Workers, and Marriage & Family Therapists website.
Additional information and disclosures regarding state licensure for professional practice in Couple and Family Therapy can be found at the UGA Licensure Disclosure Portal.