Licensure
The information below is collected from state licensure boards or regulatory agencies responsible for regulating the professions of marriage and family therapy. The information is reviewed on an annual basis. Please be advised that laws, regulations, and policies may change at any time, so always check with your state for the most up-to-date information.
Illinois has two MFT licenses, Associate Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT).
Associate License Requirements
- Graduated from a regionally accredited program with a master's or doctoral degree in marriage and family therapy or a subject with equivalent coursework.
- COAMFTE- accredited programs are acceptable.
- This license is valid for five years and may not be renewed.
Marriage and Family Therapist License Requirements
- Completion of the requirements for the Associate license.
- Passed the exam approved by the board.
- Completion of 3,000 hours of work experience.
- 1,000 hours must be face-to-face client contact with individuals, couples, and families.
- 350 hours of which must be individual therapy, and another 350 must be working with two or more clients in a session.
- 200 hours must be clinically supervised. 100 hours of which may be obtained during the graduate training.
- Clinical membership with AAMFT can be accepted in lieu of some requirements. Read more.
Licensure by Endorsement (Portability)
- Must provide verification of licenses held in other jurisdictions, with evidence of no disciplinary action.
- The licensing requirements of the previous jurisdiction must meet or exceed the licensing requirements of Illinois.
- Clinical membership with AAMFT can be accepted in lieu of some requirements.
- More details on licensure by endorsement.
Read more about MFT Licensure in Illinois
Illinois Marriage and Family Therapy Licensing and Disciplinary Board
Continuing Education
In order to renew a license, a licensee must submit evidence of continuing education completion within the prerenewal period (24 months preceding February 28 of each odd-numbered year).
Required hours
Additional Resources
State Officials & Legislative Information
AAMFT Resources
Contact Information