Licensure and Accreditation

Learn more about the Couples and Family Therapy program’s licensure and accreditation.

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One of the many benefits of attending a Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE*) accredited program is that it simplifies the post-graduation licensure application in many states. MACFT graduates are prepared to begin clinical practice as Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy Associates (LMFTA) while working toward the full LMFT license.

  • In Washington State, graduates of COAMFTE accredited programs meet the education requirements for LMFT licensure.
  • Currently, they can count up to 500 hours of direct client contact earned from the program towards the 3,000 hours requirement to become fully licensed.
  • One hundred supervision hours earned from the program may also count towards the 200 supervision hour requirement for licensure.
  • LMFTAs must pass the Association of Marriage and Family Therapy Regulatory Board (AMFTRB) Exam. Of MACFT graduates who have taken the exam, 100% have passed.
  • See requirements for Washington State’s LMFT.

This Licensure Chart provides guidance on the MACFT program’s requirement and licensing in a particular state.

The American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) provides contact information for MFT Licensing Boards and the Association of Marriage and Family Regulatory Boards provides additional resources.

*The Couples and Family Therapy Program at Seattle University’s College of Arts and Sciences is accredited by COAMFTE, 112 South Alfred Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22314, 703-838-9808, coa@aamft.org.

Licensure

Adapted from Seattle University’s Licensure disclosure.

States vary in what is required to be licensed as a marriage and family therapist (LMFT) and how licensure is acquired. Some states might require that an individual simply graduate from an accredited program. Others might require individuals to obtain additional coursework, additional fieldwork, background checks, passage of additional state licensing exams, additional fees, or other requirements.

While students who graduate from Seattle University's MACFT will typically possess the minimum educational qualifications to apply for Washington licensure, this may not be the case for other U.S. states and territories.

While this page is reviewed and updated periodically, state licensure requirements are subject to change. We strongly encourage you to check with the state licensing board where you intend to seek licensure and practice to confirm all licensing requirements; make sure you understand and consider the implications of the additional requirements prior to enrolling in a program intended to lead to professional licensure.

Students must remain in Washington State throughout the duration of the program.

Seattle University’s Licensure Disclosure

Seattle University’s full licensure disclosure can be found below.

Get in Touch

If you have any questions about the program or application, we’re here to help!

Ashley Miller

Senior Admissions Counselor

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