The Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy (MA MFT), the Master of Arts in Professional Clinical Counseling (MA PCC), and the Masters of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy with an emphasis on Professional Clinical Counseling (MA MFT PCC) programs at the University of Massachusetts Global (UMass Global) are unique and captivating programs that offers a comprehensive academic curriculum and professional training geared to preparing students to become proficient and competent clinical practitioners. The curriculum in these programs is tailored to meet state-regulated requirements that allow graduates of the program to practice as clinical providers and, if desired, to obtain licensure in their state of residence.
It is important to note that the availability of the program is dependent upon a student's state of residence. For instance, if you reside in the state of Mississippi, you are eligible to apply to the MA PCC program. This degree program will allow you to seek associate status within the state. However, if you reside in the state of California, you are eligible to apply to the MA MFT, MA PCC, or the MA MFT.PCC (dual emphasis) programs that will grant you the opportunity to seek associate registration in the state as a Marriage and Family Therapist, Professional Clinical Counselor, or both.
State-specific established requirements that govern the Marriage and Family Therapy and Professional Clinical Counseling licensure process tend to follow the guidance provided by the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) educational guidelines and the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), respectively. However, the guidelines are interpreted differently in different states. For instance, some states require an assessment course, while others may require one that addresses evidence-based practices. All states mandate a clinical practice or practicum course. Nevertheless, the criteria for each state vary. In some states, a student must complete 150 direct client contact hours, while in a different state, a student must complete 300 direct client contact hours. Variances associated with state requirements are common, and we have examined each state requirement for both professions and developed documents to help guide your decision-making process.
