A Myth about MFTs

what is a licensed marriage family therapist anyway?

Author

Yoojin Nam
May 08, 2024

The assumption

is that Marriage & Family Therapists (MFTs) only do marriage counseling or family therapy. Based on the title, I understand the confusion!

Therapy is for children too

But in fact, MFTs do work with individuals (children, adolescents, adults) as well as families and couples. As for me, I primarily see individuals to address psychological challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma & ADHD. Many MFTs like myself only work 1 on 1 with their clients.

then, how does the title make sense?

I will say, even in my work with individuals, it is important that I work on their concerns within the context of their relationships at school, home, and work.

My former Law & Ethics Professor, Donald St. Louis, explained it best, MFTs specialize in working with relationships, including the one you have with yourself. This resonates strongly for me, and that is the primary focus of my therapy: improving the relationship you have with yourself.

In future newsletters, I will discuss how I have helped myself and others develop that better relationship.

emphasizing the relational

additional acronyms

  • LMFTs have 3000 hrs of supervised training, completed their MA in a credentialed program, and are licensed by the state.

  • AMFTs are associates completing their 3000 hrs of supervised training after completing graduate school course work.

  • MFT trainees are working towards their hours while enrolled in graduate school.

How to find an MFT?

  1. Psychology Today - “World’s largest portal for psychotherapy”

  2. Alma - Therapists in-network with: Aetna, Cigna, United Health

  3. Schedule a Free consultation with me 

Learn more…

My work

Yoojin Nam LMFT is the author of Thinking to Feel. He has been practicing psychotherapy for 7 years and is licensed to practice in CA & TX.

Could therapy benefit you? Request a 15-minute free consultation.

Disclaimer: These posts are not a replacement for therapy. The information contained within is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be therapeutic advice.