Essential Information
Although Master of Science in Marriage, Family and Child Therapy degrees are rare, students interested in this field can pursue a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy. Students also can seek a Master of Science in Counseling with a concentration in marriage, family and child therapy. Such studies are found in a Master of Science in Psychology or Master of Science in Counseling Psychology program. In many cases, program coursework can be completed in two years for a total of about 45 to 54 semester credits. Prior to admittance into degree programs in this field, a bachelor's degree is required. Although a major in psychology or one of the social sciences may be looked upon favorably, a specific major isn't typically necessary. Students with degrees in unrelated majors may be expected to complete relevant prerequisite coursework. A candidate must generally submit official transcripts and meet a minimum GPA requirement. Before graduating, a counseling practicum, which is a supervised field experience interacting with families and couples, must be completed.
Master of Science in Marriage, Family and Child Therapy
A master's degree program in marriage and family therapy prepares students to assist individuals and families through emotional and psychological difficulties. Programs offer a wide scope of instruction in mental health issues that could affect families, including drug abuse, alcoholism and sexual dysfunction. Students are trained to become competent therapists who assist their patients in relating to members of their families. Courses within the program include:
- Theories of personality
- Professional ethics and cultural awareness
- Psychotherapy, mental health and group counseling
- Clinical practicum
- Child and adolescent counseling
- Marital and family therapy
Popular Career Options
Graduates work with children and adults both individually and in the context of the family dynamic in a wide array of settings including schools, clinics, private practices, foster care centers and government agencies. In addition, graduates are eligible to take state license exams to become licensed counselors or therapists. Counselors and therapists are hired in private practices, non-profit organizations, government sponsored clinics or institutions. Some possible job titles could include:
- Substance abuse specialist
- Psychotherapist
- Family counselor
- Marriage therapist
- Juvenile case manager
Employment Outlook and Salary Information
According to employment figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), growth is expected to be much faster than average for and marriage and family therapists, at a rate of 22% for both, over the 2019 to 2029 decade (www.bls.gov). Faster than average growth of 25% is expected for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors from 2019 to 2029. The BLS reported in May 2019 median annual wages of $49,610 for marriage and family therapists and $46,240 for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors.
Continuing Education and Certification Information
Graduates can expand their knowledge in the field by attending training courses offered by the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. Those interested in advanced graduate degrees can seek admission into doctoral programs in marriage and family therapy. In many cases, psychologists may be required to hold a doctoral degree and in all cases they must gain licensure from the state. Through the American Board of Professional Psychology, professionals can gain certification in one of over a dozen specialty areas, including family psychology. Licensure for counselors varies greatly by state, though completion of a state examination is usually required for practice.
Students interested in practicing marriage, family and child therapy can earn a master's degree to learn how to work with families coping with various issues. Graduates can seek advanced degrees and licensure, and can expect faster than average job growth in the field.
