Q: What degree do you need to be a family therapist?

A family therapist typically starts by getting a bachelor&#39;s degree in psychology, counseling, sociology, or social work. From there, they will likely work towards a master&#39;s degree in either counseling or marriage and family therapy. Depending on what state they practice in, a family therapist may also need certain licenses or other qualifications to ensure that the therapist knows and understands the latest and most effective methodology and treatment options. Some family therapists pursue even higher education and will work to get a PhD in family therapy. You can use education as one of the deciding factors when choosing which therapist is right for your family. In addition to obtaining a degree, family therapists must also obtain licensure. In most states, this means that candidates must complete a set number of supervised hours in the field and then pass an exam.

Question 1

What degree do you need to be a family therapist?

Accepted Answer

A family therapist typically starts by getting a bachelor's degree in psychology, counseling, sociology, or social work. From there, they will likely work towards a master's degree in either counseling or marriage and family therapy.

Depending on what state they practice in, a family therapist may also need certain licenses or other qualifications to ensure that the therapist knows and understands the latest and most effective methodology and treatment options.

Some family therapists pursue even higher education and will work to get a PhD in family therapy. You can use education as one of the deciding factors when choosing which therapist is right for your family.

In addition to obtaining a degree, family therapists must also obtain licensure. In most states, this means that candidates must complete a set number of supervised hours in the field and then pass an exam.

Question 2

What are the techniques used in family therapy?

Accepted Answer

There are a few different techniques that are used in family therapy. Some of the most effective types of family therapy include:

Structural therapy helps families by strengthening their structure. This helps make sure that the parents are in control and that both the adults and the children in the family are able to set appropriate and healthy boundaries. The therapist observes how the family interacts, and strives to reinforce interpersonal relationships.
Systemic therapy focuses more on understanding each family member's behaviors and what may be causing them. Family members are encouraged to dive deeply into their issues as a group.
Bowenian therapy focuses more on the individual members of a family and their unique needs as a person, instead of focusing only on their role within the family. Bowenian therapy strives to help family members to become less emotionally reactive during the conflict.
Strategic therapy aimed at creating change rapidly, this type of therapy intends to change the way that family members interact with one another by focusing on improving communication in the decision-making process.

A therapist may employ elements of more than one type if they feel it is appropriate for that particular case.

Question 3

What is the role of a family therapist?

Accepted Answer

In family therapy, the family therapist serves as a moderator and an advisor, listening closely to the opinions and thoughts of all family members, and offering advice on how to deal with conflicts or roadblocks. A family therapist's goal is not to solve your family's issues for you, but rather to give you the tools and skillset so that you can work to solve them on your own as a team. This can help you tackle current issues but can also set your family up for success in the future. As you learn how to better communicate, solve problems, and work together as a family, you'll be able to take on things you couldn't handle in the past.

Question 4

What is a family therapist?

Accepted Answer

A family therapist is a mental health professional who helps families strengthen their bonds and deal with their problems or struggles. A family therapist can work with family members and teach them skills to improve communication, fix dysfunctional behaviors, or assist them during a major life transition. Common reasons for a family to visit a family therapist include grief due to the death of a family member, behavior issues in a child, divorce or separation, or substance abuse issues within the family. A family therapist works with all members of the family to create a safe space where they can make sure that everyone feels listened to and understood.

What degree do you need to be a family therapist?

Related questions about family/marital therapy

Life is complicated. Finding a therapist shouldn’t be.

Newsletter signup

Get inspiration straight to your inbox.