MFT Programs in New York
While the city may be the first thing you think of when someone says “New York,” the state has far more to offer than the Big Apple. Mountains, wine, and Niagara Falls are just a few of the attractions that draw people to the state. Did you know the state also offers many diverse programs for students searching for online and on-campus marriage and family therapy programs? Schools in the state offer master of marriage and family therapy and Ph.D. degree programs, and the following document also provides insight into which are accredited and which programs don’t require the GRE. To get a better feel for what this state has to offer, let’s take a look at New York’s training programs and explore how to become a licensed marriage and family counselor in the state.
Quick Facts: MFT Programs in New York
- COAMFTE-Accredited Programs: 3 (Iona University, Syracuse University, University of Rochester)
- Additional MFT Programs: Several other institutions offer MFT-related degrees (including Hofstra University with CACREP accreditation)
- Median LMFT Salary in New York: $65,020/year (BLS, May 2024)
- National Median LMFT Salary: $63,780/year (BLS, May 2024)
- Job Growth: Much faster than average (BLS, 2024–2034)
- Licensure Exam: National MFT Examination (AMFTRB)
- Supervised Experience Required: 1,500 hours post-degree
2026 Updates for New York MFT Programs
Notable changes this year:
- Nyack College permanently closed in August 2023. It has been removed from our COAMFTE-accredited listings. Students should explore other accredited options in the state.
- Iona College is now Iona University. The institution officially became Iona University in July 2022. The MFT program remains COAMFTE-accredited with no changes to curriculum or format.
- Mercy College, Manhattan College, and Long Island University no longer appear in the COAMFTE directory. These programs may still offer MFT coursework, but their COAMFTE accreditation status could not be confirmed in the current directory. We recommend contacting these programs directly for the latest information.
- Manhattan College is now Manhattan University and Mercy College is now Mercy University, reflecting recent institutional rebranding.
- Updated salary data. The median annual salary for MFTs in New York is now $65,020 according to BLS May 2024 data, up from the previously reported $62,210.
- Updated job growth projections. BLS now projects marriage and family therapist employment to grow “much faster than average” through 2034, with approximately 7,700 openings projected nationally each year.
Accredited MFT Programs Enrolling New York Residents
Master of Marriage and Family Therapy Programs
For those students looking to become marriage and family therapists in the state of New York, a master’s in MFT program is generally a good place to start. For a LMFT license, a master’s degree in MFT is usually the first step and will provide the foundation for students to continue into the practicum requirements of the state. The following master’s degree programs are broken down by accreditation (COAMFTE or CACREP) and whether or not the GRE is required for admission. The state also has a number of CACREP accredited masters in counseling programs.
Accredited MFT Programs in New York
When looking for a graduate school MFT program, students should make sure it is accredited by one of the recognized accrediting agencies. One of the most well-known agencies for assessing the qualifications of clinical mental health programs is the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). This agency examines any mental health program, but there are also accrediting bodies that specifically focus on marriage and family therapy programs. One of the most well-known MFT program accrediting agencies is the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE). The main difference between COAMFTE and CACREP accreditation is that the former is only for marriage and Family Therapy programs, while the latter is for counseling programs primarily, but may also cover MFT programs.
COAMFTE Accredited New York MFT Programs
The COAMFTE currently lists three accredited institutions with MFT graduate programs in New York.
⚠️ Important: Since our last update in April 2023, several programs previously listed as COAMFTE-accredited are no longer found in the current COAMFTE directory. Nyack College permanently closed in August 2023. Mercy University (formerly Mercy College), Long Island University, and Manhattan University (formerly Manhattan College) do not appear in the current COAMFTE directory. These programs have been moved to a separate section below.
| Name | City | State | Degree Level | Accreditation | GRE Required? | Full Program Name | URL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iona University (MS) | New Rochelle | NY | Masters | COAMFTE | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of Rochester (MS) | Rochester | NY | Masters | COAMFTE | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Syracuse University (MA) | Syracuse | NY | Masters | COAMFTE | No | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Syracuse University (PhD) | Syracuse | NY | Doctoral | COAMFTE | No | Marriage & Family Therapy Ph.D. | Learn More |
Iona University:
M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy
Iona’s COAMFTE-accredited MFT program develops students’ theoretical and practical knowledge while also forming the student’s identity as a counselor by exploring the “Self-of-the-Therapist.” The program further stresses the fostering of prepared trainees who apply their knowledge hands-on through the Iona Family Therapy Center and other clinics in New York City and around the state. As an added perk, students have the chance to do rotations and clinicals at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, a top-ranked institution in the U.S. After completing the program, students will be considered for open positions in the hospital’s network. The program has a 100 percent pass rate for the National Exam.
University of Rochester:
M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy
Accredit by the COAMFTE, the University of Rochester offers students a unique setting to learn the theory and clinical application of marriage and family therapy. The program falls within the Department of Psychiatry, which is housed at the University of Rochester Medical Center. The Center is a clinical practice and hospital rather than a traditional college campus, so students in this program get the unique opportunity to learn in an interdisciplinary environment. Furthermore, when it comes time to complete your clinical internships, the University of Rochester partners with several local marriage and family therapy clinics to help place students. The university also has an onsite clinic regulated by the NYS Office of Mental Health where students can get hands-on experience.
Syracuse University:
M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy
Syracuse, NY | 60 Credit Hours | In-Person | GRE Not Required
Syracuse University’s Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics offers a COAMFTE-accredited Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy — notably the first COAMFTE-accredited MFT master’s program in the country. The 60-credit-hour program provides a strong clinical foundation with opportunities for certifications in child therapy and trauma-informed practice. Students complete clinical practicum training through both in-person and virtual modalities, giving them versatile experience across treatment settings. The program does not require the GRE for admission.
We like that Syracuse’s MA program combines its pioneering history in MFT education with practical flexibility. The option to pursue advanced certifications in child therapy and trauma-informed care allows students to differentiate themselves in the job market before they even graduate. For students considering doctoral work, the program also offers a natural pipeline into Syracuse’s COAMFTE-accredited Ph.D. program through research collaborations with faculty.
Syracuse’s MA program is delivered in person at the Syracuse, New York campus. Prospective students should be aware that the program is a full-time commitment. Tuition at Syracuse is on the higher end compared to other New York MFT programs, so students should explore the university’s financial aid and assistantship options early in the application process.
Other MFT Programs in New York
The following programs offer marriage and family therapy degrees in New York but are not currently listed in the COAMFTE directory. Some may hold CACREP accreditation or other regional accreditation. We recommend contacting each program directly to confirm their current accreditation status before applying.
Mercy University
Mercy University, located in Manhattan, offers a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy designed for students who want to launch a career in therapy in one of the nation’s most vibrant and diverse cities. The program emphasizes cultural competence and systemic thinking, preparing students to work with families from all walks of life. Coursework covers family dynamics, individual and couples therapy, group process, and psychopharmacology. The program includes practical training through community placements and the university’s counseling center. Mercy’s location in Manhattan provides students with access to a rich array of clinical practice sites and networking opportunities with MFT professionals throughout the New York area.
The program structure is flexible and designed for working professionals. Students appreciate the supportive cohort model and the faculty’s commitment to mentoring. Many graduates go on to become licensed marriage and family therapists in New York and surrounding states. Mercy’s tuition is generally more affordable than some of the larger research universities in the state, which can be an important factor for students managing educational costs.
Note: Mercy University (formerly Mercy College) does not currently appear in the COAMFTE directory. Prospective students should contact the program directly to confirm current accreditation status and how it may affect licensure eligibility.
Long Island University
Long Island University offers a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy at its Brooklyn campus. The program is situated in a diverse urban environment with plenty of opportunities for clinical training. The curriculum includes the core MFT coursework along with electives that allow students to specialize in areas like child and adolescent therapy, trauma, or substance abuse treatment. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through clinical practicums and internships. LIU’s location in Brooklyn provides students with access to a wide variety of client populations and training sites throughout New York City and the surrounding region.
LIU’s program has a reputation for supporting student success and providing reasonable tuition costs relative to other graduate programs in the New York area. The faculty bring a mix of academic expertise and clinical experience, and many students value the accessibility and mentorship they receive. Alumni work in private practice, nonprofit agencies, hospitals, schools, and other settings throughout the region.
Note: Long Island University does not currently appear in the COAMFTE directory. Prospective students should verify the program’s current accreditation status directly with the university.
Manhattan University
Manhattan University, located in the Riverdale section of the Bronx, offers a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy. The program is situated on a beautiful campus in northern New York City with strong connections to clinical sites in the city and surrounding areas. The curriculum provides training in systemic family therapy, couples counseling, and individual therapy modalities. Students complete practical training through required practicums and internships in community mental health centers, schools, and other clinical settings. Manhattan University’s program emphasizes a systems perspective and the importance of understanding cultural context in therapeutic work.
The program benefits from its location on the border of New York City and Westchester County, offering students a wide range of diverse client populations and training opportunities. The faculty are invested in student development, and many graduates establish successful careers in therapy throughout the region. Tuition is generally competitive with other graduate programs in the New York area.
Note: Manhattan University (formerly Manhattan College) does not currently appear in the COAMFTE directory. Prospective students should contact the program directly to confirm current accreditation status.
Hofstra University
Hofstra University, located in Hempstead on Long Island, offers a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) with CACREP accreditation. The program provides comprehensive training in the core competencies of marriage and family therapy with a strong emphasis on evidence-based practice and cultural sensitivity. The curriculum includes courses in family systems theory, couples therapy, family assessment, group therapy, and psychopharmacology. Students complete required practicum and internship experiences in a variety of clinical settings throughout the Long Island and New York City area. Hofstra’s program is known for its supportive learning environment and faculty mentorship.
Hofstra’s location on Long Island makes it accessible to students from throughout the greater New York area. The program does not require the GRE for admission. Graduates have gone on to successful careers in private practice, community mental health, school counseling, and hospital settings. The program’s CACREP accreditation is widely recognized and accepted for licensure purposes in most states, including New York.
Hofstra University’s MFT program holds CACREP accreditation (not COAMFTE). CACREP accreditation is widely recognized and accepted for licensure in most states, though students should verify that their state licensing board accepts CACREP-accredited MFT programs.
Syracuse University: Doctoral Program
For students interested in pursuing doctoral-level training, Syracuse University offers a COAMFTE-accredited Ph.D. in Marriage and Family Therapy. This program is designed for advanced study in family systems theory, research methodology, and clinical practice. The doctoral curriculum typically spans four to five years and combines didactic coursework with research and clinical training. Doctoral students at Syracuse benefit from the university’s strong research culture and the opportunity to work closely with faculty who are leading scholars in the field. The program does not require the GRE for admission. Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, research, clinical practice, and leadership roles in mental health organizations.
No GRE Required MFT Programs in New York
Students researching about graduate school programs are likely aware of the requirement by many schools to receive minimum scores from the GRE, a standardized test to assess candidate readiness for postsecondary education. However, since the inception of Covid19, many schools have opted to focus on other qualifications like letters of recommendation and undergraduate GPAs rather than the GRE. Many have erased the requirement to take the test altogether. If you are hoping to avoid taking an hours-long test, here are some programs in New York that do not require the GRE.
| Name | City | State | Degree Level | Accreditation | GRE Required? | Full Program Name | URL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iona University (MS) | New Rochelle | NY | Masters | COAMFTE | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of Rochester (MS) | Rochester | NY | Masters | COAMFTE | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Syracuse University (MA) | Syracuse | NY | Masters | COAMFTE | No | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Syracuse University (PhD) | Syracuse | NY | Doctoral | COAMFTE | No | Marriage & Family Therapy Ph.D. | Learn More |
| Hofstra University | Hempstead | NY | Masters | CACREP | No | MA in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) | Learn More |
What will you learn in a New York MFT program?
MFT programs in New York are required to combine the learning of counseling techniques and theory with the practical application of content learned in the program. You can expect your courses to cover theoretical foundations in marriage and family systems, assessments, diagnosis, treatments, lifespan development, personality, and human sexuality. COAMFTE-accredited programs are required to offer students courses exploring ethics and research as well. Many of these courses are designed to help you develop your professional identity as a counselor and navigate complex legal and ethical issues you are likely to encounter in your career as a marriage and family counselor in New York.
In New York, the hands-on application of course learning culminates in a supervised practicum and internship. Foundational practice hours in programs with COAMFTE accreditation must total at least 300 hours in client contact, with 100 hours directly supervised by an approved supervisor.
How Long Does It Take to Become an LMFT in New York?
Becoming a licensed marriage and family therapist in New York is a multi-step process that unfolds over several years. From the time you decide to pursue this career until you hold your LMFT license, you should plan for approximately seven to eight years, though the timeline can vary based on whether you attend school full-time or part-time and how quickly you accumulate your required supervised hours.
The first phase is earning your master’s degree, which typically takes two to three years of full-time graduate study. A master’s program requires around 60 credit hours of coursework and clinical training. The second phase is completing 1,500 hours of post-degree supervised clinical experience, which usually takes another one to two years if you’re working full-time as a therapist under supervision. During this phase, you’re actually practicing as a therapist, though under the guidance of a licensed supervisor, and earning income while you work toward full licensure. The final phase involves passing the National MFT Examination (administered by the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy Board of Examiners) and submitting your application to the New York State Education Department Office of the Professions. This final step typically takes a few months.
It’s worth noting that if you attend school part-time while working, the master’s degree phase may take longer—potentially three to four years. However, some programs offer accelerated formats or online components that might compress the timeline. If you’re able to find a position where you can accumulate your supervised hours while earning a full-time salary, you can make good progress toward licensure while building your career and financial stability.
How to Become an LMFT in New York
New York requires fewer training hours than some states, so if you’re planning on practicing in a different state, make sure the program you choose satisfies the qualifications for becoming an LMFT. Below are the steps required to become an LMFT in NY state.
- Earn a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy. To qualify as an LMFT in New York, candidates must have a master’s or doctoral degree from an accredited university or a license-qualifying program. That means 45 semester hours in various areas of content, including human development; marriage and family therapy clinical knowledge; psychopathology; marriage and family therapy theoretical knowledge; family law; research; and ethics. Students are also required to complete coursework or training in how to identify and report instances of child abuse. The training program must be offered by a New York state-approved provider.
- Complete a supervised practicum. Your educational training will culminate in a supervised practicum. The practicum takes place in supervised clinical settings approved by your school. A minimum of 300 client contact hours and 100 supervised hours are required. In New York, those who complete a master’s or higher degree in an equivalent field are also considered eligible for licensure so long as the degree is approved by the state.
- Complete client interaction hours. After you complete your graduate degree, the next step is obtaining 1,500 hours of direct client interaction in a supervised clinical placement. These hours can be gotten as part of your educational training, as long as the 300 practicum hours have already been satisfied. However, if you are completing the hours in a New York clinic after graduation, you will need to apply for a limited permit, which expires after one year but can be renewed if you need more time to complete your hours. Your supervisor for this post-graduation experience must be state-approved.
- Take the AMFT exam. When you have completed your 1,500 hours, you are now eligible to apply for The Association of Marriage and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards exam. Students hoping to take the exam for licensure by the Office of the Professions should submit a licensing application and fee of $371 to the Board and await instructions. Students receive approval around 6 weeks after their application is sent. Once approved, you can register for the exam with the Professional Examination Service, which will require a $220 fee.
- Earn your license. Once you finish the test, you get to wait while New York reviews your test scores, education, and application. If your application and exam scores meet the requirements, you should receive notification that you have approval for licensure.
What does an LMFT in New York do?
An LMFT performs many of the same duties and techniques as a clinical mental health counselor. However, an LMFT will specifically deal with couples, families, and individuals with a great emphasis on relationships and interpersonal healing and growth. You may also be called on to act as a barrier-buster for clients if there are systemic blocks to client wellness. Connecting clients to help is important for creating an environment where clients can thrive, not just survive.
New York LMFT Career and Salary Opportunities
As a whole, the marriage and family therapist career has a bright future, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The industry is projected to grow much faster than average through 2034, reflecting increasing public awareness of mental health and rising demand for mental health services. If you choose to practice in New York, you will join a sizable community of licensed marriage and family therapists. The median annual salary for New York LMFTs was $65,020 as of May 2024 (BLS), which is above the national median of $63,780 and among the higher-paying states for marriage and family therapists. While many students looking to enter the helping career usually do so out of a desire to make a difference, knowing the LMFT occupation has upward growth and monetary stability is a plus.
Continuing Education and License Renewal in New York
Once you’ve earned your New York LMFT license, you’re not done learning—in fact, maintaining your license requires a commitment to ongoing professional development. New York requires licensed marriage and family therapists to complete 36 hours of continuing education (CE) every three-year registration period. This requirement ensures that LMFTs stay current with the latest research, treatment approaches, and ethical standards in the field.
Of those 36 hours, at least 3 hours must focus on professional ethics and at least 1 hour must address infection control and other public health topics. The remaining hours can be used for any continuing education topics that deepen your clinical skills and knowledge—whether that’s advanced training in a specific therapy modality, learning about new research in family systems theory, understanding the neurobiology of trauma, or developing expertise in a particular population or presenting problem. All continuing education courses must be offered by providers approved by the New York State Education Department. Many universities, professional organizations (like the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy), and private training companies offer approved CE courses. Many can be completed online, which offers convenience and flexibility.
License renewal applications are submitted through the New York State Education Department Office of the Professions. Make sure to keep detailed records of all continuing education you complete, including course titles, dates, number of hours, and the provider’s name and approval number. Failing to complete your required continuing education or to document it properly can result in your license lapsing, which would prevent you from practicing until you’ve met the requirements and re-applied for renewal.
Out-of-State Licensure and Reciprocity
If you’re a licensed LMFT in another state and you’re considering moving to New York to practice, or if you’re licensed in New York and thinking about moving elsewhere, it’s important to understand reciprocity rules. Unfortunately, New York does not have automatic reciprocity agreements with other states, meaning you cannot simply transfer your license from one state to another. Instead, if you’re licensed in another state and want to practice as an LMFT in New York, you’ll need to apply for New York licensure through the New York State Education Department Office of the Professions and meet all of New York’s specific requirements for education and supervised experience.
New York is not currently part of any interstate licensure compact for MFTs, unlike some other health professions. This means that each application for licensure is reviewed individually based on New York’s standards. The good news is that if you earned your degree from a COAMFTE-accredited program and have documented supervised experience that meets New York’s requirements, the process is generally straightforward. You’ll need to provide official transcripts, documentation of your supervised hours, and proof that you’ve passed the National MFT Examination. However, be aware that the specific content of your master’s degree program and the details of your supervision may need to be reviewed to ensure they align with New York’s requirements.
If you’re licensed in New York and want to practice in another state, you’ll need to check that state’s specific requirements. Some states do have reciprocity agreements or compact membership that might make the process easier. It’s always a good idea to contact your target state’s licensing board early in the process to understand what will be required. In general, COAMFTE-accredited degree holders have an easier time transferring because COAMFTE accreditation is recognized across all 50 states and U.S. territories.
All Marriage and Family Therapy Programs in New York (Complete List)
Here’s a comprehensive table of all marriage and family therapy programs in New York that we’ve identified. Please note that accreditation status and program offerings can change, so we recommend contacting each program directly to confirm their current status and to learn more about what they offer.
| Name | City | State | Degree Level | Accreditation | GRE Required? | Full Program Name | URL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iona University (MS) | New Rochelle | NY | Masters | COAMFTE | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of Rochester (MS) | Rochester | NY | Masters | COAMFTE | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Syracuse University (MA) | Syracuse | NY | Masters | COAMFTE | No | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Syracuse University (PhD) | Syracuse | NY | Doctoral | COAMFTE | No | Marriage & Family Therapy Ph.D. | Learn More |
| Hofstra University | Hempstead | NY | Masters | CACREP | No | MA in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) | Learn More |
| Mercy University | Manhattan | NY | Masters | ⚠️ Not in COAMFTE directory | N/A | Marriage and Family Therapy M.S. | Learn More |
| Long Island University | Brooklyn | NY | Masters | ⚠️ Not in COAMFTE directory | N/A | M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Manhattan University | Riverdale | NY | Masters | ⚠️ Not in COAMFTE directory | N/A | Marriage & Family Therapy M.S. | Learn More |
Frequently Asked Questions About MFT Programs in New York
Can I become an LMFT in New York with a CACREP-accredited degree?
Yes, New York accepts degrees from CACREP-accredited programs as long as the program meets the state’s content and hour requirements. Candidates must still complete the marriage and family therapy programs in New York that we’ve identified. Please note that accreditation status and program offerings can change, so we recommend contacting each program directly to confirm their current status and to learn more about what they offer.
What is the difference between an LMFT-P and a full LMFT in New York?
New York does not use the “LMFT-P” designation. Instead, graduates who have not yet completed their 1,500 supervised hours can apply for a limited permit, which allows them to practice under supervision while accumulating the required experience. The limited permit is valid for one year and can be renewed. Once all requirements are met, candidates apply for full LMFT licensure through the Office of the Professions.
How long does it take to become an LMFT in New York?
From start to finish, it typically takes about seven to eight years. This includes earning a master’s degree (two to three years), completing 1,500 hours of post-degree supervised clinical experience (one to two years), and passing the national MFT examination. The timeline can vary depending on whether you attend school full-time or part-time.
Does New York have reciprocity with other states for LMFT licensure?
New York does not currently have automatic reciprocity agreements or participate in an interstate licensure compact for MFTs. If you hold an LMFT license in another state, you will need to apply through the NYSED Office of the Professions and demonstrate that your education and experience meet New York’s specific requirements.
What continuing education do I need to renew my New York LMFT license?
New York requires 36 hours of continuing education every three-year registration period. At least three of those hours must be in professional ethics and at least one hour in infection control practices. Courses must be from providers approved by the New York State Education Department.
Are there accredited online MFT programs available to New York residents?
While most COAMFTE-accredited MFT programs in New York are offered in person, some programs—such as Syracuse University’s MA program—incorporate online and virtual components. New York residents can also enroll in fully online COAMFTE-accredited programs offered by institutions in other states, though students should confirm that an out-of-state program meets New York’s licensure requirements before enrolling.
New York MFT Resources
- Iona University: M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy
- University of Rochester: M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy
- Syracuse University: M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy
- NYSED Office of the Professions – Marriage and Family Therapists
- AAMFT – New York Division
