LMFT Salary Guide 2025 – How Much Do Licensed Marriage & Family Therapists Earn?

By PsychologyJobs.com Staff Writer

Our career guides are produced by staff writers in conjunction with our expert career coaches.

An LMFT (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist) is a mental health professional trained to diagnose and treat individuals, couples, and families struggling with mental health and relationship issues. Learn more about becoming an LMFT

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the median annual salary for a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist is $51,340.

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Which states pay the highest salaries for LMFTs?

  1. Hawaii: $78,260
  2. Alaska: $72,900
  3. California: $69,590
  4. New Jersey: $68,600
  5. Connecticut: $64,600

Which cities pay the highest salaries for LMFTs?

  1. San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA: $84,820
  2. San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA: $80,230
  3. Vallejo-Fairfield, CA: $76,720
  4. Santa Rosa, CA: $76,160
  5. San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles-Arroyo Grande, CA: $75,910

It’s important to note that the cost of living in these areas may be higher than in other regions, which clearly impacts the overall value of the salary.

How can you earn more as an LMFT?

Specialize in a specific area

LMFTs can increase their earning potential by specializing in a particular area such as addiction, trauma, or child therapy. Becoming an expert in a specific area can lead to increased demand for services and the ability to charge higher rates.

Pursue higher education

Obtaining an advanced degree such as a Ph.D. or Psy.D. in Marriage and Family Therapy or a related field can increase earning potential. Advanced degrees can lead to more opportunities for higher-paying jobs such as working in academia or research.

Consider private practice

Starting a private practice can provide LMFTs with more control over their income. By setting their own rates, they can potentially earn more than they would working for an employer. However, starting a private practice requires significant upfront costs and the ability to build a client base.

Negotiate salary or rates

LMFTs who work for an employer may be able to negotiate a higher salary or hourly rate. Negotiating can be especially effective when an LMFT has a track record of success and has built a positive reputation within their organization.

How do LMFT salaries compare?

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists follow a very similar educational and training path as a Licensed Professional Counselor, Addiction Counselor, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Mental Health Counselors so how do LMFT salaries compare to these roles?

As you can see an LMFT salary compares very favorably to other similar roles with only clinical social workers enjoying a higher average salary.