How To Become a Therapist in California

In order to become an MFT in California you will need to complete the following steps.

How To Become a Therapist in California

In order to become an MFT in California you will need to complete the following steps.

How To Become a Therapist in California

In order to become an MFT in California you will need to complete the following steps.


Becoming an Marriage and Family Therapist

In order to become a Marriage and Family Therapist in California, you will need to complete the following steps:

Prospective MFTs must complete a master's degree in marriage and family therapy, psychology, clinical psychology, counseling psychology, or counseling with an emphasis on marriage and family therapy. Clinical training must be included as part of your degree program.

Applicants must register with the Board of Behavioral Sciences as an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT), complete at least 3000 hours of post-graduate clinical experience, with at least 1000 hours completed under the supervision of a licensed clinician, and pass the California Law and Ethics Exam and the LMFT Clinical Exam.

The LMFT Clinical Exam contains 170 questions (150 are scored, 20 are unscored). Exam categories include:

  • Clinical Evaluation
  • Developing a Diagnostic Impression
  • Managing Crisis Situations
  • Case Conceptualization and Planning
  • Treatment
  • Managing Legal and Ethical Obligations

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Other Frequently Asked Questions


The truth is, there are no shortcuts or secrets when it comes to passing the MFT CA Clinical Exam. It takes dedication and hard work in order to succeed on this exam. The MFT CA Clinical Exam tests your ability to apply knowledge and principles to realistic, clinical scenarios. The exam is divided into the following content areas ...

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The CAMFT Code of Ethics is a set of standards that guides the conduct and ethical behavior of Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs). The code of ethics helps to ensure that MFTs act in the best interests of their clients at all times.

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