The Counseling Psychology degree prepares students to enter the field of Marriage and Family Therapy. Marriage and Family Therapists (MFT) constitute a significant proportion of the mental health providers in California, e.g. LCSWs, psychologists, and psychiatrists.The majority of MFTs work in non-profit organizations (community mental health services) as well as in schools, colleges, hospitals, clinics, and government agencies, and private practice.In addition to their general practice in marriage, family, and child counseling, many MFTs have also acquired additional areas of specialized training in, but not limited to, substance abuse, child abuse, hypnotherapy, and working with school-community organizations.
Marriage and Family Therapists (MFT) constitute a significant proportion of the mental health providers in California, e.g. LCSWs, psychologists, and psychiatrists.The majority of MFTs work in non-profit organizations (community mental health services) as well as in schools, colleges, hospitals, clinics, and government agencies, and private practice.In addition to their general practice in marriage, family, and child counseling, many MFTs have also acquired additional areas of specialized training in, but not limited to, substance abuse, child abuse, hypnotherapy, and working with school-community organizations.
Marriage and Family Therapists (MFT) constitute a significant proportion of the mental health providers in California, e.g. LCSWs, psychologists, and psychiatrists.The majority of MFTs work in non-profit organizations (community mental health services) as well as in schools, colleges, hospitals, clinics, and government agencies, and private practice.In addition to their general practice in marriage, family, and child counseling, many MFTs have also acquired additional areas of specialized training in, but not limited to, substance abuse, child abuse, hypnotherapy, and working with school-community organizations.
Social Work programs often emphasize an ecological perspective which focuses on the fit and interactions of a person or system in relation to the various environments.In this respect, many social work graduates work with agencies to provide environmental support and external resources as well as counseling individuals and families.However, a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) is specifically trained to perform clinical psychotherapy and many are involved in private practice as well as working with various agencies.
MFTs, like psychologists and LCSWs, provide psychotherapy with individuals and families/couples and generally do not assist clients with external resources.School counselors and school psychologists can only work with children and school personnel in school settings and require a school credential.MFTs, LCSWs, and psychologists require passing written examinations to earn their licenses and can practice in the community outside of a school setting.
The program prepares students to apply for licensing with the Board of Behavioral Sciences for Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC).Marriage and Family Therapists (MFT) constitute a significant proportion of the mental health providers in California, e.g. LCSWs, psychologists, and psychiatrists.The majority of MFTs work in non-profit organizations (community mental health services) as well as in schools, colleges, hospitals, clinics, and government agencies, and private practice.
A survey in the California Association of Marriage & Family Therapist journal, the California Therapist, indicates there is a severe shortage of mental health personnel in California, particularly in certain counties. Most MFTs work in agencies or independent practice. The average fee ranges from $75 per hour, and they see approximately 20-25 clients per week. Managed care and HMOs have not seriously impacted MFT fees and work as California laws do not generally permit discrimination by insurance companies against MFTs. Contrary to popular belief, MFTs can and do bill and collect insurance reimbursem*nt from insurance companies that cover various mental health services without a physician's approval. The majority of our MFT graduates often work for an organization (Department of Public Social Services, Children's Protective Services, colleges, schools, hospitals, clinics, etc.) while developing their independent practice. Many colleges and other agencies are hiring MFTs to provide counseling, advisem*nt, and teaching service as it is more cost effective than hiring PhDs.
