Marriage and family therapists treat various clinical issues that include anxiety, marital difficulties, depression, child-parent issues and individual psychological problems. Approximately half of the treatment sessions supplied by marriage and family therapists are in a one-on-one setting, while the other half are with additional family members or a married couple. The aim of marriage and family therapy (MFT) is short-term therapy with very specific and attainable goals over 12 sessions, on average.
The demand for marriage and family therapists is growing, and according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the projected job outlook is expected to increase by 14% through 2031, which is a faster increase than average. Recent improvements in telehealth capabilities and insurance access have made marriage and family therapy more accessible for more families and couples than in the past.
An online Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Family Studies from Lamar University is designed to prepare students for a broad range of careers in therapy, education, advocacy, policy and more. Students in this online degree program will study the relationships within a family unit and their connection to a larger community, child socialization and human development across a lifespan.
Marriage and Family Therapy and Counseling Employment Outlook
According to the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, 90% of clients experience improved mental health, 66% report improved physical health and 75% say they have improved family relationships after participating in marriage and family therapy and counseling. This solution-focused therapy is practiced by licensed mental health professionals with experience in mental and emotional disorders, family systems and psychotherapy within families, couples and marriages. Marriage and family therapists can work in various settings, such as hospitals, community centers, colleges, universities, government agency offices, in-patient clinics, employee assistance programs, mental health and substance use treatment centers and private practice.
Those interested in and passionate about human development, psychology, psychotherapy, divorce and the impacts of addiction are typically excellent people to study marriage and family therapy. Professionals in this space need strong communication, interpersonal, listening, problem-solving and organizational skills to help families and couples while building strong communities. According to BLS, the median annual salary for marriage and family therapists is $49,880, annually or $23.98 per hour, depending on years of experience, location and method of employment.
For many MFTs, the benefits and rewards of this career include the positive impact they can make on the important relationships of families and couples, building bonds with clients, the potential for career progression and the opportunity to specialize in a specific area of interest. Some marriage and family therapists focus on addiction, mental health issues, chronic illnesses, helping families with aging parents or children and working with veterans and their families.
About Lamar University’s Online Degree Program
Students enrolled in this online program will gain valuable knowledge and field experience that provide job possibilities in family intervention, family wellness and community-based opportunities. Students who complete this degree will be ready to reduce family crises through prevention and awareness methods; strengthen communities by empowering couples, families and individuals; and recognize the elements of healthy relationships and functioning through family research writings.
This 100% online bachelor’s degree program equips graduates with the skills and pathway to pursue certification and a master’s degree in the field, such as Lamar University’s online Master of Education (MEd) in Counseling and Development – Marriage Couple and Family Counseling program.
Learn more about Lamar University’s online Bachelor of Science in Family Studies program.
