What are the MFT Requirements in California?

The MFT requirements in California are relatively new to the MFT industry, but they have already made a big impact.

What are the MFT Requirements in California?

The MFT requirements in California are relatively new to the MFT industry, but they have already made a big impact.

What are the MFT Requirements in California?

The MFT requirements in California are relatively new to the MFT industry, but they have already made a big impact.


California MFT Requirements

The MFT requirements in California are relatively new to the MFT industry, but they have already made a big impact. The MFT California requirements are different from other MFTs and require an additional certification for those who want to become certified as an MFT.

California is the only state in the country that licenses MFT's without taking the National MFT Exam.

This article will explore what this extra requirement entails and why it is important for those who want to enter the MFT profession in California. In order to become a licensed marriage and family therapist in California, one must complete MFT training and then take the CA MFT board exam.

The MFT Clinical Exam is administered by the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT). This certification board sets MFT requirements for licensure in CA, including MFT training hours as well as MFT CEUs needed for renewal every two years.

Here are the specific steps to becoming an MFT in California:

  1. Earn a bachelor's degree
  2. Complete a masters degree in marriage and family therapy
  3. Gain two years of clinical experience
  4. Pass the CA MFT exam

Find study materials to become a licensed California MFT at AATBS.

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Looking for more information about the difference between LMFT and LCSW? Click here to learn the differences between LMFT vs LCSW.


Other Frequently Asked Questions


The MFT vs LMFT debate has been raging for many years in the field of social work. MFT is a relatively new designation, which means it's not as widely known or recognized by some mental health professionals. MFT stands for Marriage and Family Therapist; while LMFT stands for Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.

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If you are considering becoming a therapist, there is one important decision that will need to be made: where should I go to school? There are two major paths you could take when choosing your education path. You can attend an accredited LCSW or LMFT program. Both of these professions offer their graduates the opportunity to help people in similar ways, but they do require different training.

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