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Monterey County Chapter Marriage & Family Therapists
What is a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT)?
Marriage and Family Therapists are relationship specialists licensed to practice psychotherapy and trained in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of individuals, couples, families, children and groups.
MFTs have earned a graduate degree in a behavioral science, have had at least 3,000 hours of supervised experience and have passed two comprehensive state examinations before being licensed by the State of California.
When would you use a Marriage and Family Therapist?
Most individuals, couples and families experience problems from time to time. Reasons for seeking professional help vary, but most are directly related to interpersonal relationship problems.
Other reasons for seeking help include but are not limited to:
- Emotional stress or anxiety
- Alcohol or drug abuse
- Chronic illness
- Conflicts with co-workers
- Depression
- Divorce or separation
- Eating disturbances
- Family conflict
- Grief and loss
- Life transitions
- Parenting issues
- Sexual difficulties
How do you find a Marriage and Family Therapist?
The Find A Therapist feature on our website is designed to assist you in the selection of, or referral to, a qualified therapist. Choosing a therapist is a personal process and only you can judge who is best for you.
Choosing a licensed MFT ensures that the therapist will:
- Be licensed by the Board of Behavioral Sciences
- Be bound by a professional code of ethics
- Abide by the laws and regulations affecting the profession
- Treat clients only within the scope of their license and competence
- Refer clients to other qualified practitioners when appropriate or necessary
- Welcome inquiries about their methods, background, experience and fees
It is recommended that you inquire about a prospective therapist's background, experience, clinical approach and fees when you call for an appointment.