What's the difference between an LMFT and MFT?
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A licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) is a credentialed professional who completes the necessary licensure requirements in their state to practice independently. A marriage and family therapist (MFT) has been trained in marriage and family therapy but is not licensed to practice independently. Learn more about the distinction to help you plan your career.
Key differences between an LMFT and an MFT
MFT and LMFT professionals have earned a master's in marriage and family therapy or a related field. Both professionals address relationship dynamics, communication, and mental health concerns.
The key difference between an MFT and LMFT is licensure. An MFT has completed their master's program education requirements but does not have full licensure. They cannot work independently while accumulating the required supervised clinical experience.
An LMFT has fulfilled all state licensure requirements. This includes completing clinical hours and passing the state-board-approved exam. They can provide therapy without supervision. In some states they may also be referred to as independent marriage and family therapists (IMFT).
LMFT vs. MFT license requirements
Licensure level depends on your experience and supervision status. Some states offer an associate licensure, but the requirements can vary by state. In states without an associate license, an MFT is an intern-level professional who can gain the required supervised clinical hours but is not liscenced.
A licensed marriage and family therapy associate (LMFTA) and an associate marriage and family therapist (AMFT) are professionals with associate or provisional licenses. They cannot practice independently but must have completed their degree and be in the process of fulfilling supervised clinical hours.
An LMFT and an IMFT are fully licensed. They have earned a graduate degree in social work, completed all the state-required supervised clinical experience, and passed the licensure examination. They can practice independently without supervision.
Using a tiered system ensures that therapists are adequately trained before beginning independent practice.
Salary and earning potential
According to 2023 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for marriage and family therapists is $58,510. This is higher than the average for all occupations. Associate-level or new graduates of master's in social work programs are qualified for entry-level marriage and family therapy positions.
New professionals may earn less than the median earnings for marriage and family therapists. The lowest 10% of marriage and family therapists earned less than $39,090 in 2023, according to the BLS. Licensed professionals (LMFTs) who practice independently with more experience can expect higher earnings. BLS salary estimates do not include data from self-employed professionals, which may vary based on client base and practice.
Should I become an LMFT or MFT?
Earning the LMFT designation gives you greater independence, the ability to practice without supervision, and a higher earning potential. However, earning your licensure takes significant time, effort, and supervised clinical experience. The first step to becoming a practicing MFT is earning your master's in marriage and family therapy or a related field. Whether you choose to become a licensed marriage and family therapist depends on your career goals.
As a graduate of an MFT program, you will gain valuable supervised clinical experience. However, choosing not to advance your license to an LMFT can limit your ability to practice independently, usually comes with a lower salary, and may limit your career growth. Most states allow you to renew your MFT license without becoming an LMFT. Ultimately, the decision you make should align with your long-term career goals.