MFT Programs in Michigan: Online & Campus Degree
If you’re interested in becoming a specialist in the mental health field and want to work with a wide range of individuals and demographics, you might be interested in the field of marriage and family therapy (MFT). This is an established but rapidly growing psychological field that is in high demand in Michigan and nationwide. To become a practitioner in marriage and family counseling, you’ll need to enroll in an MFT degree program and become licensed as a marriage and family therapist.
What is an MFT Degree?
An MFT degree is a counseling/psychology degree that focuses on therapeutic methods used to help couples and families. An MFT degree prepares counselors, psychologists, and therapists to work with these individuals as a group or individually to work through the common issues that families and couples typically face, such as:
- Addiction counseling
- Psychological disorders
- Special needs counseling
- Parenting skills
- Listening and sharing techniques between couples
MFT Degree Levels in Michigan
There are many different types of MFT degrees, but the most common types are graduate degrees (master’s degrees and doctorate degrees) and graduate certificates (non-degrees that typically last a year or less). Master’s and doctorate degrees in MFT allow graduates to become licensed in marriage and family therapy, whereas graduate certificates are typically geared towards students who are already licensed as mental health professionals but want a more balanced education in this particular area.
MFT degrees are available across the country, but before applying, it’s important to remember that the program must be accredited in order to be considered for licensure. The main accrediting body for marriage and family therapists is the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE). As you research MFT degree programs, make sure that they have the COAMFTE stamp of approval if your goal is to become licensed.
Michigan Master's Degree in MFT
MFT master’s degrees take two years and 60 credits to complete. They are a very popular choice amongst students looking to take on careers centered around marriage and family therapy because graduation from them is the fastest and most affordable route to licensure. On average, you can expect to pay between $400 and $800 per credit. There is currently one MFT master’s degree program available in Michigan:
Western Michigan University: The Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling Master’s Degree program at Western Michigan University is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to support and guide families, couples, and individuals through various relational challenges. Western Michigan offers the program in person only at its Kalamazoo campus and as an online/on-campus hybrid at its Grand Rapids campus.
Michigan Graduate Certificate in MFT
MFT graduate certificates are non-degree programs that are typically offered to students who are either currently enrolled in a related mental health graduate degree program or have already graduated from one. They usually take about a year (or less) to complete and cost between $1,000 and $1,500 dollars. On their own, MFT graduate certificates do not lead to licensure, but you may be able to obtain licensure with one in combination with clinical hour fulfillment and graduation from a graduate degree program. There is currently one option in Michigan:
Andrews University: This Couple and Family Therapy Certificate offered by Andrews University is open to students who have graduated from a clinical mental health graduate degree program (or simular degree) who wish to work towards their Michigan Limited MFT license or simply learn more about this exciting field.
Michigan MFT Doctorate Degrees (Ph.D. or PsyD)
MFT doctoral degrees are the highest level of education a marriage and family therapist can achieve. These programs are less common than master’s degrees, but they ensure that students who graduate from them have expert knowledge in the field, and those who obtain doctorate degrees are practically guaranteed a successful career as clinicians or researchers.
MFT doctorate degree programs come in two forms — a Ph.D. or a PsyD. MFT Ph.D. programs are typically more focused on research and theory, while PsyDs focus more on clinical practice. However, there is plenty of overlap. Doctorate degrees can take anywhere from 4 to 8 years of study and cost anywhere from $35,000 to $150,000+ in Michigan. There is currently one option for MFT doctoral degrees in Michigan:
MIchigan State University: The Ph.D. in Couple and Family Therapy offered by Michigan State University provides a comprehensive graduate education that prepares students to become skilled therapists for couples and families. The program utilizes a systemic approach to therapy, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical clinical experience. Students benefit from a rigorous curriculum, hands-on training at the university’s own on-campus Couple and Family Clinic, and the opportunity to engage in research, all designed to foster a deep understanding of diverse family dynamics and effective therapeutic techniques.
Can I Get an MFT Degree Online in Michigan?
Online MFT programs are a popular choice as marriage and family therapy practitioners become more in demand. These programs allow students to balance their busy home or work schedules with their educational aspirations.
Because of the clinical practicum requirements associated with MFT licensure, it’s important to note that while you can find these programs available nationwide, enrolling in an out-of-state online MFT program may limit your ability to practice in Michigan or transfer licensure. You may also need to travel to the state where the program is based in order to fulfill these requirements. Currently, there is only one online MFT degree program option offered in the state — the Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling Master’s Degree program at Western Michigan University (Grand Rapids Campus).
Becoming a Licensed MFT in Michigan
Once you have fulfilled the necessary education requirements to become an LMFT, it’s time to begin the licensure process. Below are the general guidelines you’ll need to follow in Michigan:
- Education: Obtain a master’s or doctoral degree in marriage and family therapy or a related field from a regionally accredited institution.
- Supervised Experience: You must accrue at least 1,000 hours of direct client contact post-degree. This experience must be supervised by a licensed MFT. Additionally, you need 200 hours of direct supervision, half of which can be group supervision.
- Examination: Pass the National Examination in Marriage and Family Therapy. This exam is administered by the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB).
- Application: Submit an application for licensure to the Michigan Board of Marriage and Family Therapy. This will include providing transcripts, documentation of supervised experience, examination scores, and any other required materials.
- Background Check: Undergo a criminal background check as part of the application process.
- Supervision: Continue to work under supervision until you receive your license.
- Continuing Education: Michigan LMFTs must complete 45 hours of continuing education every three years, including 5 hours in ethics, to maintain their license.