Marriage and Family Therapist

Marriage and family therapists (MFTs) treat mental and emotional disorders within the context of the family. They also evaluate and resolve relationship problems, behavioral problems, health issues and other conflicts that impact general well-being within family relationships.

These professionals focus on how people interact within marriage and family units, rather than the traditional emphasis on the individual. A marriage and family therapist generally takes a holistic approach to perform the following duties:

• Meet several members of a family at the same time for therapy sessions
• Diagnose psychological disorders
• Guide clients through interactional/transitional crises, such as divorce or the death of a loved one
• Highlight problematic relationship and behavior patterns that need to be changed
• Enhance communication and understanding among loved ones
• Help clients address dysfunctional behaviors and replace them with constructive alternatives

U.S. News & World Report lists MFTs as one of the 50 Best Careers of 2011 and those who embark on a career can expect a median annual salary of between $34,420 and $58,150 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' 2010 report. Those choosing to work in state government agencies earn an annual mean wage of $59,240.

Many marriage and family therapists are employed in private practice. However, these professionals can also be found working in the following settings:

• Social service agencies
• Universities
• Research centers
• Court
• Prisons
• Inpatient facilities
• Community mental health centers
• Businesses and consulting companies

Some MFTs conduct family research and public policy projects, while others lead therapy sessions at rehabilitation centers that focus on family recovery from an individual's substance abuse.

Those who are preparing for graduate MFT studies often begin by getting clinical experience. Volunteering at local teen shelters, crisis hotlines or mental health centers are great opportunities to interact with clients. Meanwhile, undergraduate degrees in psychology, biology or sociology are a great way to gain research experience.

Becoming a marriage and family therapist involves completing a two- to three-year master's program or a three- to five-year doctoral program in this field. Another option is to earn a master's or doctoral degree in another mental health field. Those who complete graduate degrees in similar mental health fields, such as psychiatry or psychology, have the chance to study MFT at an accredited post-graduate degree clinical training program.

Eligibility for licensing hinges on completion of an accredited higher education program followed by supervised clinical experience. However, requirements for certification/licensure vary from state-to-state; contact your state licensure board for specifics.