An MFT program is a graduate degree in marriage and family therapy/counseling that enables graduates to treat families, couples, or individuals in a variety of mental health settings. Most programs consist of rigorous coursework and clinical training that prepares its graduates to be Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFT) upon graduation. In recent years, more mental health programs in Texas have made a move towards online education, allowing for most Texas MFT degrees to be earned online from accredited institutions. Major advantages of online degree programs include flexibility in whether you would be a full-time or part-time student and a cost reduction associated with earning an MFT degree. The following article covers all the available masters in marriage and family therapy programs in the state of Texas, and has broken the programs down by accreditation, no GRE requirement, and finally programs that are offered online.
Masters in MFT Programs in Texas
The standard approach to becoming a marriage and family therapist in the state of Texas is to complete a master’s program. These programs generally take about two years to complete, and then from there, there are additional requirements to become an LMFT including an internship, an exam, and an application for the license. Most cities in Texas, including Houston and Austin, use the state requirements.
Accredited MFT Programs in Texas
In your search for the ideal Texas MFT program, consideration of pursuing a marriage and family therapy degree from an accredited program is important as it is an assurance that the program provides the necessary training, coursework, and assessment of competency of its graduates to practice as an LMFT. While the state of Texas prefers for MFT programs to be accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE), the national accrediting body for the field, graduates from non-accredited programs may still pursue a career as an LMFT. The latter route typically consists of a longer (12-month) practicum along with other required coursework that meets the requirements for licensure. COAMFTE-accredited MFT programs in Texas such as Texas Tech University and Texas Woman’s University, typically consist of the coursework and clinical training that would consist of all the requirements for your pursuit of licensure during your final semester or immediately upon graduation. Alternatively, the state of Texas also features a number of CACREP accredited counseling programs.
COAMFTE Accredited Texas MFT Programs
Texas MFT programs accredited by COAMFTE include master’s degrees, doctoral degrees, and postgraduate degree clinical training in marriage and family therapy that is recognized state-wide and nationally. The following list includes all COAMFTE accredited MFT programs in the state of Texas.| Name | City | State | Degree Level | Accreditation | GRE Required? | Full Program Name | URL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ST. MARY'S UNIVERSITY | San Antonio, | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | N/A | Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| ST. MARY'S UNIVERSITY | San Antonio, | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | N/A | Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy Program. | Learn More |
| Houston Baptist University | Houston, | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | N/A | The Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| A&M University | Killeen, | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | N/A | The Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) masters program | Learn More |
| University of Houston | Houston, | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | N/A | The Master of Arts in Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Texas Tech University (MS) | Lubbock | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | No | Couple, Marriage, and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Texas Tech University (PhD) | Lubbock | TX | Doctoral | COAMFTE | No | Couple, Marriage, and Family Therapy Ph.D. | Learn More |
| Our Lady of the Lake University - Houston (MS) | Houston | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Our Lady of The Lake University - Rio Grande Valley | La Feria | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Our Lady of the Lake University - San Antonio (MS) | San Antonio | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Texas Wesleyan University (MS) | Fort Worth | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Texas Woman's University (MS) | Denton | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Abilene Christian University (MMFT) | Abilene | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | No | Master of Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Texas Wesleyan University (PhD) | Fort Worth | TX | Doctoral | COAMFTE | No | PH.D. IN MARRIAGE & FAMILY THERAPY | Learn More |
| Texas Woman's University (PhD) | Denton | TX | Doctoral | COAMFTE | No | Ph.D. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Abilene Christian University Online (MMFT) | Dallas | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | No | Master of Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of Houston Clear Lake (MA) | Houston | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | Yes | M.A in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) | Learn More |
Houston Baptist University – This institution offers a Master of Arts Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) that is offered online and in person. Students are required to attend a 16-week intensive program of which, one week will be on campus. The curriculum consists of 60 credit hours and is designed to meet licensure requirements within Texas. Built into the program is also a minimum requirement of 700 clinical training hours, which offers students the competency training required for licensure. Clinical training sites are flexible and offered in a variety including hospitals, agencies, churches, and mental health centers. Faculty offer an environment that fosters support for student career development.
The University of Houston offers a Master of Arts degree in Family Therapy that prepares students for licensure and work with individuals, couples, and families. Students are required to complete a clinical internship of a minimum of 400 hours and are required to join the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, where they will be able to receive resources and support for continued personal and professional development. This program also has all the curriculum and training requirements for students to pursue licensure as an LPC in the state of Texas. The GRE requirement will be waived for students already holding a master’s degree, for their application.
Texas Tech University – The graduate program in marriage and family therapy at Texas Tech consists of a Master’s degree and a Doctoral degree option. Students have the option of earning their master’s degree on track to being admitted to the doctoral program at the same institution. The program is COAMFTE accredited and those applying directly to the doctoral program are required to hold a COAMFTE-accredited master’s degree. This program places a heavy emphasis on involvement in academic research along with clinical training. The master’s program consists of a 69-credit-hour curriculum and the doctoral program has a 78-credit-hour curriculum. Training is available in over 16 different clinical settings, and the program has in-built continuing education opportunities for students. Collaborations with key agencies such as hospitals and community resources boost students’ professional networks as they prepare to launch their independent careers in the field. Further, students also have community outreach opportunities that aid in professional development and add to the body of experience as a clinician.
Our Lady of the Lake University – This institution offers a Master of Science degree in Psychology with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy across three locations, Houston, San Antonio, and La Fiera Texas. The curriculum takes a systemic approach to psychotherapy and most courses are offered on alternating Sundays which makes this 60-credit-hour program accessible and enables students to graduate in three years. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for licensure as an LPC and an LMFT in Texas and is accredited by COAMFTE. There is an equal emphasis on theoretical knowledge and practice, along with involvement in academic research, which prepares students to be well-rounded in the field as a clinician and researchers.
Texas Wesleyan University offers a Master’s and Doctoral program in MFT, which can be completed sequentially for those who want to pursue further education and research opportunities in academia. Both programs are COAMFTE accredited, and the curriculums meet the educational and training requirements for licensure as an LMFT upon graduation. The Master’s program consists of 60 credit hours with an additional 12 credit hours in a concentration in professional counseling for those wanting to pursue an LPC license. The Ph.D. program consists of 68 credit hours with a dissertation requirement and 16 credit hours dedicated to clinical practicum training. Ph.D. courses are in addition to already completed and equivalent Master’s level competency courses.
Texas Woman’s University – This institution provides a COAMFTE-accredited Master of Science and Doctoral program in marriage and family therapy which prepares students for licensure in Texas. With an outstanding record of a 100% pass rate on the national licensing exam, the curriculum incorporates rigorous clinical training and research involvement for all students in the program. Students can complete the Master’s program consisting of 60 credit hours in three years and have the option of choosing a thesis track. The Ph.D. program consists of 90 credit hours (60 credit hours for those already holding a Master’s degree) and can be completed in three years. At a doctoral level, students will gain training and opportunities to engage in research and academia which will open them up to more opportunities within the field. Both programs have the option of full-time or part-time attendance, making it accessible to students with full-time jobs.
Abilene Christian University – The Master of Marriage and Family Therapy degree is offered in-person and online in this institution which is designed for students to successfully obtain licensure upon graduation. This program also offers a thesis track that will help students want to pursue further education. The program is COAMFTE accredited and provides resources and support to students wanting to pursue a doctoral degree. With a curriculum consisting of 60 credit hours, the program is typically completed in two years. The clinical practicum training makes up for 12 credit hours and students are offered a variety of on-campus and community-based training sites to choose from.
Texas Wesleyan University offers a Master’s and Doctoral program in MFT, which can be completed sequentially for those who want to pursue further education and research opportunities in academia. Both programs are COAMFTE accredited, and the curriculums meet the educational and training requirements for licensure as an LMFT upon graduation. The Master’s program consists of 60 credit hours with an additional 12 credit hours in a concentration in professional counseling for those wanting to pursue an LPC license. The Ph.D. program consists of 68 credit hours with a dissertation requirement and 16 credit hours dedicated to clinical practicum training. Ph.D. courses are in addition to already completed and equivalent Master’s level competency courses.
No GRE Required MFT Programs in Texas
The GRE is a standardized test that is still required by a number of universities for admission into master’s and doctoral programs. Luckily, many schools in the state of Texas have decided to wipe this admissions requirement entirely from their application process. The following is a list of Texas MFT programs that no longer require the GRE.| Name | City | State | Degree Level | Accreditation | GRE Required? | Full Program Name | URL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| St. Edward's University | Austin | TX | M.A. | CACREP | No | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Texas State University | San Marcos | TX | M.A. | CACREP | No | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| University of Mary Hardin-Baylor | Belton | TX | M.A. | CACREP | No | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi | Corpus Christi | TX | M.S. | CACREP | No | M.S. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Sam Houston State University | Huntsville | TX | M.A. | CACREP | No | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Texas Tech University (MS) | Lubbock | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | No | Couple, Marriage, and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Texas Tech University (PhD) | Lubbock | TX | Doctoral | COAMFTE | No | Couple, Marriage, and Family Therapy Ph.D. | Learn More |
| Our Lady of the Lake University - Houston (MS) | Houston | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Our Lady of The Lake University - Rio Grande Valley | La Feria | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Our Lady of the Lake University - San Antonio (MS) | San Antonio | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Texas Wesleyan University (MS) | Fort Worth | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Texas Woman's University (MS) | Denton | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Abilene Christian University (MMFT) | Abilene | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | No | Master of Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Texas Wesleyan University (PhD) | Fort Worth | TX | Doctoral | COAMFTE | No | PH.D. IN MARRIAGE & FAMILY THERAPY | Learn More |
| Texas Woman's University (PhD) | Denton | TX | Doctoral | COAMFTE | No | Ph.D. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Abilene Christian University Online (MMFT) | Dallas | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | No | Master of Family Therapy | Learn More |
St. Edward’s University – This Master of Arts degree in Counseling program prepares students for licensure as either an LPC or an LMFT. The curriculums consist of 60 credit hours for both concentrations and are accredited by CACREP which ensures the standards of coursework and training. The program is typically completed in three years of ten semesters, or two years for those enrolled full-time. Clinical practicum training is completed in the last three semesters. Courses are delivered in person, online, and in blended formats which is a positive factor for those pursuing the degree in addition to their existing career. This program prides itself on the 95% pass rate of its graduates on the NCE that is required for LPC licensure.
University of Mary Hardin-Baylor – The Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling track is a CACREP-accredited program consisting of a curriculum that is 60 credit hours. It prepares students for licensure upon graduation and takes approximately seven semesters for students to complete the degree for those in full-time status. Clinical practicum training makes up approximately 15 credit hours and students are offered a variety of practicum sites to choose from for their training. Students also have the option of being involved in academic research should they want to pursue further education at a doctoral level. They are encouraged to join organizations and professional bodies that would help with professional development.
Online MFT Programs in Texas
Online learning holds a number of benefits to students. Some work better in an independent environment at a different pace than in-person classes offer. Additionally, many times, individuals in an MFT program already have a full-time job or other responsibilities such as a family. Online programs are often designed with this type of student in mind – one that needs a flexible learning environment. Many institutions in the state of Texas offer some variation of online learning even after COVID, whether it is fully online or hybrid. With that, three institutions have continued to offer 100% online MFT programs to students in the state. The following MFT programs are offered fully online:
- Houston Baptist University – Master of Marriage and Family Therapy Online
- Abilene Christian University – Online Master of Marriage and Family Therapy
- St. Edwards University – Online Master of Arts in Counseling (LMFT Track)
What Will I Learn in a Texas MFT Program
MFT programs in Texas typically require 60 credit hours of coursework including on average nine credit hours of supervised clinical practicum or internship hours. You may have an option of selecting a thesis or non-thesis track, depending on the program you apply to and your interest in conducting academic research. Graduate programs are on average four semesters long (two years), which may extend depending on your course load per semester and clinical practicum/internship requirements. The following outline consists of course requirements general to most programs that are also required for licensure as an LMFT in Texas according to the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council. The courses are intended to provide you with a comprehensive education that should prepare you for your licensing exam as well as providing therapy to clients once you graduate. The course names may differ slightly based on the university.
Theoretical foundations of marriage and family therapy (three semester hours) – A comprehensive understanding of the development and foundations of MFT theories, contemporary theories, and applying theoretical conceptualizations in treatment in marriage and family therapy.
Human development, family studies, multicultural and gender issues (six semester hours) – Theories of human development and approaches to the stages of development. Family systems theory and applicability in treatment. Multicultural competence, theory, and practice. Gender issues pertaining to sex and gender identity or relevant issues, the intersection of family systems with sex and gender.
MFT assessment and treatment (12 semester hours) – Treatment modalities, techniques, and approaches that would be used specifically in therapy with diverse populations. This would include individuals, families, couples, and children. Topics covered include (but are not limited to) relationship therapy, crisis intervention, sex therapy, sex and gender issues, interfaith couples, parental issues, multi-cultural issues, and therapy for the elderly.
Professional ethics (three semester hours) – Professional identity accompassing the duties and roles of a marriage and family therapist. This includes therapist scope of practice, ethical obligations, professional affiliation with organizations, procedure on licensure and certification, and ethical issues pertaining to practicing therapy with individuals, couples, and families.
Professional research (three semester hours) – Includes a comprehensive understanding of evidenced-based research in the field of marriage and family therapy. The mechanics of conducting scientific research, and the process of consuming and applying evidence-based research in clinical practice. This also includes a comprehensive understanding of effective research evaluation methods and tools beneficial for practice in marriage and family therapy.
Treatment of addictions and management of crisis – Theoretical conceptualizations of the process of addiction and its influence in marriage and family systems.
Psychopathology (three semester hours) – Theoretical and clinical competence in assessment and diagnosis of pathology using psycho-diagnostic categories and criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). Assessment and screening based on evidence-based tools and practices.
Supervised clinical practicum/internship (12 months or nine semester hours) – Completion of supervised clinical experience during which you would accrue 300 clinical hours where:
- A minimum of 150 direct client contact hours; and
- Of the 150 direct client contact hours, at least 75 hours must be direct client contact with couples and families.
How to Become an LMFT in Texas
Upon graduating from an MFT program or if you are nearing graduation, the next step would be to prepare and apply for licensure as an LMFT- Associate (LMFT-A). An LMFT-A is a probationary license which means you would be required to complete a certain number of supervised clinical experience hours to then be independently licensed as an LMFT. The licensure process takes approximately three weeks to three months – the standard recommendation is to apply as soon as you can! Completion of coursework and clinical practicum hours are a starting point for licensure. The sooner you can prepare for the national licensure examination by the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB), the less painstaking the process will be. The following outlines a checklist of what would be needed for submission to the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council.
- A completed online application
- Application fees
- Practicum documentation
- Proof of completion of the Texas Jurisprudence Exam for Marriage and Family Therapists
- Official AMFTRB score report – sent directly from the testing agency
- Official transcripts
- Self-query report from NPDB sent directly from the agency
You would have to undergo a criminal background check, and fingerprinting, and provide a government-issued photo ID.
Upon receiving your license as an LMFT-A, you would then begin accruing hours toward an LMFT license. In order to qualify for LMFT licensure, you would need a minimum of 3000 supervised clinical practice hours in MFT where you would undergo:
- At least 1500 hours include providing direct clinical services
- Of the 1500 direct clinical hours, 500 must be direct clinical services to couples or families.
- 200 council-approved clinical supervision
These hours are completed under the supervision of a supervisor who already has a license. The 200 hours of clinical supervision requirement involves meeting one-on-one with said supervisor to receive feedback for your work and to discuss any concerns you might have. In general, this is a beneficial aspect of training.
What Does an LMFT in Texas Do?
As an LMFT, you would work with families, couples, and individuals in one-on-one sessions or in group sessions. An LMFT is different from other mental health professionals such as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or a Licensed Psychological Associate (LPA), as LMFTs focus on interpersonal and family dynamics, and how the two intersect to influence the functioning of individual members and the family unit. LMFTs work in a variety of settings including private practice, schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and in-patient or out-patient mental health treatment facilities. Earning an MFT degree in Texas and acquiring licensure as an LMFT would open you up to a variety of opportunities and work environments that best suit your career needs and enable you the autonomy to develop your skills as a clinician.
Featured Marriage and Family Therapy Programs
Texas LMFT Career and Salary Opportunities
A career in mental health could take you into a variety of environments depending on your skill set and preferences. While clinical practice remains the predominant focus of most LMFT’s, some move on to supervisory roles of LMFT-A’s and other therapists, director roles in institutional settings, investigative and assessment in judicial cases, or academia and research. Some eventually go on to develop thriving private practices that enable therapists to set the tone of their own work environment.
The projected growth of employment of LMFT’s is set to be at 16% over the next decade, which is much faster than average for other occupations, according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. The average salary in Texas is at $54,920, higher than the national average of $49,880. In Texas, LMFT’s earn between $38,850-$80,840. The national salary range for LMFT’s is between $37,050-$96,520. The cities in Texas where LMFT’s reported higher wages include Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, Arlington, Houston, The Woodlands, San Antonio, and New Braunfels.
A career in MFT would offer you versatility in the work environment, job duties, treatment population, and overall, no day being a repetition of another. In becoming an LMFT, you would be able to positively impact the life trajectory of an individual or a family, which makes the field of mental health challenging, yet perhaps one of the most fulfilling careers out there!
All Marriage and Family Therapy Programs in Texas (Complete List)
With so many Marriage and Family Therapy programs available in the state of Texas, finding one that meets your requirements can be challenging. The following list includes all the available programs and includes additional information to make your search easier.| Name | City | State | Degree Level | Accreditation | GRE Required? | Full Program Name | URL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas State University | San Marcos, | TX | Masters | CACREP | N/A | Professional Counseling (Marriage and Family Counseling Concentration Non-thesis Option) | Learn More |
| ST. MARY'S UNIVERSITY | San Antonio, | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | N/A | Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| ST. MARY'S UNIVERSITY | San Antonio, | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | N/A | Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy Program. | Learn More |
| Houston Baptist University | Houston, | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | N/A | The Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| A&M University | Killeen, | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | N/A | The Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) masters program | Learn More |
| University of Houston | Houston, | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | N/A | The Master of Arts in Family Therapy | Learn More |
| St. Edward's University | Austin | TX | M.A. | CACREP | No | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Texas State University | San Marcos | TX | M.A. | CACREP | No | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| University of Mary Hardin-Baylor | Belton | TX | M.A. | CACREP | No | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi | Corpus Christi | TX | M.S. | CACREP | No | M.S. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Sam Houston State University | Huntsville | TX | M.A. | CACREP | No | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Texas Tech University (MS) | Lubbock | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | No | Couple, Marriage, and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Texas Tech University (PhD) | Lubbock | TX | Doctoral | COAMFTE | No | Couple, Marriage, and Family Therapy Ph.D. | Learn More |
| Our Lady of the Lake University - Houston (MS) | Houston | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Our Lady of The Lake University - Rio Grande Valley | La Feria | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Our Lady of the Lake University - San Antonio (MS) | San Antonio | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Texas Wesleyan University (MS) | Fort Worth | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Texas Woman's University (MS) | Denton | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Abilene Christian University (MMFT) | Abilene | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | No | Master of Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Texas Wesleyan University (PhD) | Fort Worth | TX | Doctoral | COAMFTE | No | PH.D. IN MARRIAGE & FAMILY THERAPY | Learn More |
| Texas Woman's University (PhD) | Denton | TX | Doctoral | COAMFTE | No | Ph.D. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Abilene Christian University Online (MMFT) | Dallas | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | No | Master of Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Southern Methodist University | Dallas | TX | M.S. | CACREP | Yes | M.S. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| University of Houston Clear Lake (MA) | Houston | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | Yes | M.A in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) | Learn More |
Southern Methodist University offers a Marriage, Couple, and Family therapy specialty which prepares students for dual licensure as an LPC and an LMFT in Texas. This program is CACREP accredited and consists of a rigorous curriculum equally emphasizing academic research and clinical practicum training. The curriculum consists of 63 credit hours with 9 credit hours dedicated to practicum training. Students typically complete this program in three years and are required to be enrolled full-time. Students work with faculty mentors who are their clinical supervisors and can also be collaborators on academic research projects, which prepares them to pursue further education at a doctoral level.
Texas MFT Resources
Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council
Texas Association for Marriage and Family Therapy
