Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) Jobs & Career Guide

Search hundreds of licensed marriage and family therapist jobs across the country Search LMFT Jobs

What’s in this guide?

By PsychologyJobs.com Staff Writer

Our career guides are produced by staff writers in conjunction with our expert career coaches. We may earn a referral fee from some links.

What is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist?

A licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) helps individuals, couples, and families to overcome a variety of emotional and psychological issues. LMFTs typically hold a master’s or doctoral degree in counseling, psychology, or a related field, and have completed additional training and clinical experience in the areas of family systems, couples therapy, and relationship dynamics.

LMFTs use evidence-based therapeutic approaches to help individuals and families improve their communication, resolve conflicts, and develop healthier relationships. They may also provide support and guidance during major life transitions, such as divorce, loss, or significant changes in family structure.

Where do Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists work?

Licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFTs) work in a variety of settings, including:

  1. Private Practice: Many LMFTs operate their own private practices, where they provide individual, couples, and family therapy to clients.
  2. Mental Health Clinics: LMFTs may work in mental health clinics, where they provide therapy to individuals, couples, and families who are dealing with a range of emotional and psychological issues.
  3. Hospitals: LMFTs may be employed by hospitals to provide therapy to patients and their families who are dealing with medical issues or chronic illnesses.
  4. Schools: LMFTs may work in schools, providing counseling services to students and their families, as well as working with teachers and administrators to create supportive environments for students.
  5. Community Agencies: LMFTs may work for community agencies, such as non-profit organizations, providing therapy and support to individuals and families who are experiencing economic, social, or other challenges.
  6. Government Agencies: LMFTs may be employed by government agencies, such as child welfare agencies or family court systems, to provide therapy and support to families who are involved in the legal system.

Overall, LMFTs have a wide range of employment options, and may work in settings that align with their personal interests and career goals.

What does an LMFT do day to day?

The day-to-day tasks of a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) can vary depending on the setting in which they work. However, some common tasks that an LMFT may perform include:

Conducting assessments

LMFTs may meet with clients individually or as a couple or family to assess their emotional and psychological needs and develop a treatment plan.

Providing therapy

LMFTs may provide therapy to clients using a range of evidence-based techniques and interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, emotion-focused therapy, or solution-focused therapy.

Documenting client progress

LMFTs may keep detailed records of client progress, treatment goals, and any significant events or milestones that occur during therapy sessions.

Consulting with other professionals

LMFTs may consult with other mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, counseling psychologists, or social workers, to coordinate care and ensure that clients are receiving the best possible treatment.

Attending continuing education

LMFTs are required to stay up-to-date on the latest research and techniques in the field of marriage and family therapy, so they may attend continuing education courses, workshops, or conferences.

Networking and marketing

If they run a private practice, LMFTs may spend time networking with other mental health professionals, marketing their services, and managing their business operations.

Overall, the day-to-day tasks of an LMFT are focused on providing high-quality therapy and support to individuals, couples, and families, helping them to overcome emotional and psychological challenges and improve their overall well-being.

How do you become an LMFT?

Generally, it takes between 6 and 8 years to become an LMFT in the US. The length of time can vary depending on the educational path you choose, the state you live in and how long it takes you to complete the required clinical hours.

Education

You must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. While there is no specific major requirement for this degree, it is recommended that you pursue a degree in a related field such as psychology, sociology, or social work.

You must have a master’s degree in counseling, family counseling, psychology, or a related field from an accredited program. The program must include coursework in marriage and family therapy, psychotherapy, human development, and assessment.

Clinical Experience

You must complete a certain number of supervised clinical hours ranging from 1,500 to 4,000 hours depending on the state.

Here are some general guidelines for the required clinical experience for LMFT licensure:

  1. Supervision: You must complete your clinical experience under the supervision of a licensed mental health professional who meets your state’s requirements for supervision. Your supervisor will provide guidance and feedback on your work with clients and help you develop your clinical skills.
  2. Population: Your clinical experience must involve working with individuals, couples, and families. You may also be required to work with specific populations, such as children, adolescents, or people with substance abuse disorders.
  3. Setting: Your clinical experience may take place in a variety of settings, such as a mental health clinic, hospital, or private practice. The specific setting may depend on your state’s requirements and the availability of supervised clinical positions.
  4. Duration: The amount of clinical experience required varies by state, but typically ranges from 1,500 to 4,000 hours. You may be required to complete your clinical experience within a certain time frame, such as 2-3 years.
  5. Documentation: You must keep detailed records of your clinical experience, including the number of hours you have completed, the clients you have worked with, and the interventions you have used. You will need to submit this documentation to your state’s licensing board or regulatory agency when you apply for licensure.

Licensing

You must pass a state-administered licensure exam. The exam typically covers topics such as clinical assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, and professional ethics.

The specific exam required for LMFT licensure varies by state.

Many states use the National Marriage and Family Therapy Examination (NMFTE), which is administered by the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB). The NMFTE is a standardized exam that assesses knowledge and skills in the areas of marriage and family therapy, including assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, and ethical practice.

Other states use a different exam or a combination of exams. For example, California uses the California Law and Ethics Exam for LMFTs, as well as the Clinical Exam, which is also administered by the AMFTRB.

It’s important to check the specific requirements for LMFT licensure in your state, including the exam(s) you need to pass and any other requirements, such as supervised clinical experience or continuing education.

You must obtain a state license to practice as an LMFT. Each state has its own requirements for licensure, so it’s important to check the specific requirements in your state.

To learn more about licensing of LMFTs in your state visit this page on the AMFTRB website and locate the board of your state.

How much do you earn as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist?

The average annual salary for marriage and family therapists in the United States is $51,340.

The BLS also reported that the highest-paid 10% of LMFTs earned more than $88,900, while the lowest-paid 10% earned less than $32,890. In general, LMFTs who work in healthcare settings, such as hospitals or outpatient care centers, tend to earn higher salaries than those who work in educational or government settings.

It’s worth noting that LMFTs who operate their own private practices have the potential to earn higher salaries, but may also have higher overhead costs and may need to spend time marketing their services and managing their business operations.

See our LMFT Salary Guide for more insights.

Do LMFTs have good career prospects?

Licensed marriage and family therapists have excellent career prospects. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of marriage and family therapists is projected to grow 22% from 2019 to 2029, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.

There are several factors contributing to this growth, including:

  • Increased demand for mental health services: There is growing awareness of the importance of mental health, and an increasing number of people are seeking therapy and counseling services to address a wide range of emotional and psychological issues.
  • Shortage of mental health professionals: There is a shortage of mental health professionals in many parts of the United States, which has created a high demand for LMFTs and other mental health professionals.
  • Changes in healthcare policy: Changes in healthcare policy have expanded access to mental health services, making it easier for people to seek treatment and increasing the demand for mental health professionals.

Latest Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) Jobs & Career Guide Listings

PositionCompanyLocationPosted
Mental Health Professional or PractitionerStellher Human Services Cass Lake, Minnesota US04/15/2024
SIGN ON BONUS UP TO $15,000 PLUS RETENTION BONUS UP TO $15,000 FOR SECOND YEAR We’re looking for a Mental Health Professional or Practitioner for our school-based CTSS program in Cass Lake, MN. The Mental Health Practitioner is responsible to provide individual, group, and/or family skills as determined by a diagnostic assessment for children and adolescents experiencing mental health issues, communication challenges, or family conflict. Clinical supervision … More
Clinical SupervisorStellher Human Services Detroit Lakes, Minnesota US04/15/2024
**Up to $10,000 Sign-On Bonus** For A Clinical Supervisor Join our team at Stellher Human Services, Inc. Were looking for a full-time Clinical Supervisor. The position is half-time at our crisis stabilization facility, Willow Tree, in Detroit Lakes, MN and half-time in school-based and outpatient programs. This position could also be half-time only, working as the Clinical Supervisor at Willow Tree. Duties include providing clinical supervision through … More
Behavioral Health ConsultantYakima Medical-Dental Clinic Yakima, Washington US04/01/2024
Position Title: Behavioral Health ConsultantCity: YakimaState/Territory: US-WAEmployment Duration: Full timeOffer Relocation: YesExcempt Status: ExemptID: 12748Description: Join our team as a Behavioral Health Consultant in Yakima, WA, and be … More
Natividad Residency Program Behavioral Health Manager (Behavioral Health Services Manager I)Natividad Salinas, California US03/27/2024
INSPIRING HEALTHY LIVESthrough communityAt Natividad, our dedication to the people of Monterey County is at the heart of everything we dofrom the health care services we provide to the specialized programs we promote. This commitment to our community spans more than 130 years and, more importantly, … More
Quarterly Adjunct Lecturer – Department of Counseling Psychology (2023-2024 pool)Santa Clara University Santa Clara, California US03/26/2024
Position Title:Quarterly Adjunct Lecturer – Department of Counseling Psychology (2023-2024 pool)Position Type:TemporarySalary Range:The rate for a traditional 3 unit course is $8,502Purpose:PurposeThe Department of Counseling Psychology in the School of Education & Counseling Psychology at Santa Clara University invites applicants for part-time lecturer positions for 2023-2024. The department has two … More
Behavioral Health ProviderMAMMOTH HOSPITAL Mammoth Lakes, California US03/26/2024
$5,000 retention bonus paid at 18 months! We are looking for a compassionate and collaborativeBehavioral Health Provider, Intern, or Associate to join our growing behavioral health team. Our Behavioral Health clinic is attached to our Hospital which is a progressive, patient-centered, and quality driven 17-bed Critical Access Hospital and Rural Health Clinic with advanced technology, modern facilities, and superb medical staff. We are a financially sound, … More
Remote Licensed Therapist – Full Time – CAUnitedHealth Group San Diego, California US03/25/2024
Opportunities with AbleTo, part of the Optum family of businesses, are focused on improving millions of lives through technology-enabled behavioral health care. Start a rewarding career where your work will bridge the gap between need and treatment. Join us in making care more accessible and affordable through convenient telehealth available in all 50 states. Be part of a team that’s driven by the passion we share for helping people get better and stay better. Help us make a meaningful and … More
Military and Family Life Counselor – Fairchild, WashingtonLeidos Fairchild Afb, Washington US03/23/2024
Leidos is hiring licensed behavioral health professionals to join our Adult Military and Family Life Counseling (MFLC) team to support Fairchild AFB near Spokane, WA.Join the mission to support U.S. military service members and their families as they work through important military life adjustments while serving their country. The Adult Military and Family Life Counselor (Adult-MFLC) position offers a unique opportunity to serve a vital role, in providing non-medical support, which … More
Position
Mental Health Professional or Practitioner
SIGN ON BONUS UP TO $15,000 PLUS RETENTION BONUS UP TO $15,000 FOR SECOND YEAR We’re looking for a Mental Health Professional or Practitioner for our school-based CTSS program in Cass Lake, MN. The Mental Health Practitioner is responsible to provide individual, group, and/or family skills as determined by a diagnostic assessment for children and adolescents experiencing mental health issues, communication challenges, or family conflict. Clinical supervision … More
Company
Stellher Human Services
Location
Cass Lake, Minnesota US
Posted
04/15/2024
Position
Clinical Supervisor
**Up to $10,000 Sign-On Bonus** For A Clinical Supervisor Join our team at Stellher Human Services, Inc. Were looking for a full-time Clinical Supervisor. The position is half-time at our crisis stabilization facility, Willow Tree, in Detroit Lakes, MN and half-time in school-based and outpatient programs. This position could also be half-time only, working as the Clinical Supervisor at Willow Tree. Duties include providing clinical supervision through … More
Company
Stellher Human Services
Location
Detroit Lakes, Minnesota US
Posted
04/15/2024
Position
Behavioral Health Consultant
Position Title: Behavioral Health ConsultantCity: YakimaState/Territory: US-WAEmployment Duration: Full timeOffer Relocation: YesExcempt Status: ExemptID: 12748Description: Join our team as a Behavioral Health Consultant in Yakima, WA, and be … More
Company
Yakima Medical-Dental Clinic
Location
Yakima, Washington US
Posted
04/01/2024
Position
Natividad Residency Program Behavioral Health Manager (Behavioral Health Services Manager I)
INSPIRING HEALTHY LIVESthrough communityAt Natividad, our dedication to the people of Monterey County is at the heart of everything we dofrom the health care services we provide to the specialized programs we promote. This commitment to our community spans more than 130 years and, more importantly, … More
Company
Natividad
Location
Salinas, California US
Posted
03/27/2024
Position
Quarterly Adjunct Lecturer – Department of Counseling Psychology (2023-2024 pool)
Position Title:Quarterly Adjunct Lecturer – Department of Counseling Psychology (2023-2024 pool)Position Type:TemporarySalary Range:The rate for a traditional 3 unit course is $8,502Purpose:PurposeThe Department of Counseling Psychology in the School of Education & Counseling Psychology at Santa Clara University invites applicants for part-time lecturer positions for 2023-2024. The department has two … More
Company
Santa Clara University
Location
Santa Clara, California US
Posted
03/26/2024
Position
Behavioral Health Provider
$5,000 retention bonus paid at 18 months! We are looking for a compassionate and collaborativeBehavioral Health Provider, Intern, or Associate to join our growing behavioral health team. Our Behavioral Health clinic is attached to our Hospital which is a progressive, patient-centered, and quality driven 17-bed Critical Access Hospital and Rural Health Clinic with advanced technology, modern facilities, and superb medical staff. We are a financially sound, … More
Company
MAMMOTH HOSPITAL
Location
Mammoth Lakes, California US
Posted
03/26/2024
Position
Remote Licensed Therapist – Full Time – CA
Opportunities with AbleTo, part of the Optum family of businesses, are focused on improving millions of lives through technology-enabled behavioral health care. Start a rewarding career where your work will bridge the gap between need and treatment. Join us in making care more accessible and affordable through convenient telehealth available in all 50 states. Be part of a team that’s driven by the passion we share for helping people get better and stay better. Help us make a meaningful and … More
Company
UnitedHealth Group
Location
San Diego, California US
Posted
03/25/2024
Position
Military and Family Life Counselor – Fairchild, Washington
Leidos is hiring licensed behavioral health professionals to join our Adult Military and Family Life Counseling (MFLC) team to support Fairchild AFB near Spokane, WA.Join the mission to support U.S. military service members and their families as they work through important military life adjustments while serving their country. The Adult Military and Family Life Counselor (Adult-MFLC) position offers a unique opportunity to serve a vital role, in providing non-medical support, which … More
Company
Leidos
Location
Fairchild Afb, Washington US
Posted
03/23/2024