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What is a Marriage and Family Therapist?

Marriage and family therapists (MFTs) are psychotherapists and healing arts practitioners licensed by the state of California. 

MFTs assist with a wide variety of issues ranging from addictions, depression, child behavior and elder concerns.

What should I ask myself?

What do I hope to gain from therapy? Will this therapist help me do that? 

Am I comfortable with this therapist? Would I want to come back?

Remember: The most important factor in securing effective therapy is a good relationship between you and your therapist.

Do I feel assured that the therapist is qualified to help me with the issues or concerns that have motivated me to seek therapy at this time?

Am I willing to do the work necessary to participate in therapy?

Will therapy work for me?

Research supports the assertions that therapy works for most clients.

Many report relief from depression, anxiety, and relationship problems, amongst numerous other issues.

Many also report seeking therapy as a means of personal growth and exploration.

How long are therapy sessions?

Sessions are typically between 45 minutes and 50 minutes, but may be shorter or longer depending upon the treatment approach.

How confidential are the sessions?

Information disclosed by patients is generally held as confidential except for disclosure required or permitted by law. 

I tried therapy before and it didn't work, why should I try it again?

Sometimes the chemistry between the therapist and client or the therapeutic modality just isn't a good fit. Just as you sometimes have to switch medication, you may need to switch therapists or treatment modalities to achieve success.

Therapy works best when you are open to it and are actually willing to participate in your own healing.

Adapted from the article,"Who are LMFTs?" found on www.camft.org, official website of the California Association of Marriage & Family Therapists. 

The California Board of Behavioral Sciences receives and responds to complaints regarding services provided within the scope of practice of (marriage and family therapists, licensed educational psychologists, clinical social workers, or professional clinical counselors). 

You may contact the board online at www.bbs.ca.gov, or by calling (916) 574-7830.