How To Become a Marriage and Family Therapist

Sep 5

Why MFTs Matter in Montana

Are you interested in becoming a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT)? That’s wonderful—because we need more professionals in this field. At Bozeman Therapy & Counseling, our team includes licensed marriage and family therapists who are passionate about helping couples, families, and individuals heal and grow.

If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to become an MFT—or why working with one can be so powerful—here’s a look at the process.

The Journey to Becoming a Licensed MFT

While each state’s requirements differ slightly, the overall path looks like this:

1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

Future MFTs usually begin with a bachelor’s in psychology, human development, or a related social science. This stage typically takes 4 years.

2. Complete a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy

The next step is a specialized master’s degree.

University programs are often more affordable.
Professional schools may provide more flexible schedules.

This stage usually takes 2 years.

3. Gain Supervised Clinical Experience

After graduating, pre-licensed therapists must:

Complete about 3,000 hours of supervised client work.
Receive ongoing supervision from a licensed MFT.
Fulfill continuing education requirements.

This stage typically takes 2 years.

4. Pass the Licensing Exam

With supervised hours complete, candidates must pass their state’s licensing exam.

5. Practice as a Licensed MFT

Once licensed, therapists are fully qualified to provide counseling services to couples, families, and individuals.

Why This Matters for You as a Client

When you choose to work with a licensed MFT at Bozeman Therapy & Counseling, you’re working with someone who has invested years of education, training, and experience in understanding relationships. Our therapists are trained to:

Help couples communicate and reconnect.
Support families through transitions and conflict.
Guide individuals through healing and personal growth.

Whether you’re seeking support for your marriage, your family, or yourself, our team in Bozeman is here to provide compassionate, expert care. We also offer telehealth sessions for clients across Montana.

Call to Action

If you’re ready to see how working with a marriage and family therapist can help you, we invite you to connect with Bozeman Therapy & Counseling today. Our licensed clinicians are here to support you in creating healthier, more secure relationships.

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Julie Menanno MA, LMFT, LCPC

Julie Menanno, MA is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, and Relationship Coach. Julie operates a clinical therapy practice in Bozeman, Montana, and leads a global relationship coaching practice with a team of trained coaches. She is an expert in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for Couples and specializes in attachment issues within relationships.

Julie is the author of the best-selling book Secure Love, published by Simon and Schuster in January 2024. She provides relationship insights to over 1.3 million Instagram followers and hosts The Secure Love Podcast, where she shares real-time couples coaching sessions to help listeners navigate relational challenges. Julie also hosts a bi-weekly discussion group on relationship and self-help topics. A sought-after public speaker and podcast guest, Julie is dedicated to helping individuals and couples foster secure, fulfilling relationships.

Julie lives in Bozeman, Montana, with her husband of 25 years, their six children, and their beloved dog. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, skiing, Pilates, reading psychology books, and studying Italian.

https://www.thesecurerelationship.com/