Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy

The Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy (MAMFT) is designed to provide specialized training for students who desire to work specifically with couples and families, as well as individuals in the context of the family. This degree fulfills the academic requirements in most states for licensure in marriage and family therapy (LMFT), licensure as a professional counselor (LPC), and clinical membership in the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT). MAMFT students are strongly encouraged to become student members of AAMFT upon acceptance to PSI.

Using both a systems theory perspective and a Christian theology integrationist perspective, students develop the knowledge and skills to practice marriage and family therapy. Marriage and family therapists serve the church, community and society at large in a variety of roles such as education, administration, marriage and family therapist, minister of family life and counseling, parent trainer, youth minister, pastor or teacher, business leader, public relations, and many varied settings in which counseling is needed. Marriage and family therapists work with a varied population presenting problems such as family crisis, conduct disorder, eating disorders, marital distress, sexual issues, bereavement, family trauma, various forms of addictions, anxiety and depression, financial and occupational issues, and spiritual concerns.

The demand for well trained, competent MFTs is expected to increase with the mounting pressures facing couples and families. The distinguished PSI faculty help students gain competence in Christian theology, counseling psychology, and spiritual formation to address the whole person and to move the hurting family system toward healthy functioning.

The MAMFT is provided through a traditional day program over two, three or four years.

Beyond the theological and integration training offered in all PSI graduate degrees, the MAMFT includes significant training in professional marriage and family therapy.

The MAMFT may also be combined with the other specializations. Specializations strengthen the student’s abilities to work with specific client populations. The following specializations within the MAMFT are offered. The specialization will be documented on the graduate’s diploma.

• Addictions Counseling
• Child and Adolescent Therapy
• Christian Sex Therapy
• Leadership and Coaching
• Spirituality and Counseling

Please see p. 51 of the graduate catalog for more information.