Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) vs. Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
When pursuing a career in mental health, two of the most common paths are becoming a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) or a Psychologist. While both professions focus on diagnosing and treating mental health concerns, they differ in education requirements, licensing, clinical scope, and career opportunities.
This guide breaks down the key differences between LMFTs and Psychologists, helping you determine which career path aligns best with your interests and professional goals.
In this guide
LMFT vs. LCSW: An Overview
The table below compares LMFT and LCSW careers in terms of education, licensing, areas of focus, and job settings.
|
Category
|
LMFT
|
LCSW
|
|---|---|---|
|
Education
|
Master’s in Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT) & Licensure
|
Master’s in Social Work (MSW)
|
|
Licensing Exam
|
MFT National Exam (AMFTRB)
|
ASWB Clinical Social Work Exam
|
|
Clinical Hours Required
|
2,000 – 4,000 supervised hours
|
3,000+ supervised hours (varies by state)
|
|
Scope of Practice
|
Specializes in relationships, family dynamics, and couples therapy
|
Focuses on mental health, social justice, case management, and policy work
|
|
Work Settings
|
Private practice, clinics, hospitals, schools
|
Hospitals, community health, government agencies, private practice
|
|
MFT in Hospitals & Healthcare
|
$70,000
|
3-7 years
|
|
Job Growth (2023-2033)
|
16% (Faster than average)
|
11% (Faster than average)
|
|
Average Salary
|
$58,510 per year (varies by state & specialization)
|
$64,360 per year (varies by setting & experience)
|
Both careers require state licensure and ongoing continuing education to maintain certification. The primary difference lies in LMFTs focusing on relational therapy and LCSWs specializing in broader mental health and social services.
- If you’re passionate about therapy, relationships, and family counseling, an LMFT career is a great choice.
- If you want to work in broader mental health, social work, and case management, an LCSW may be a better fit.
Both professions offer rewarding careers in mental health, providing opportunities to make a lasting impact in individuals’ and families’ lives. Choosing between LMFT and LCSW depends on your career goals, interests, and the type of work you’re most passionate about.
Why Choose an LMFT Career?
Becoming an LMFT is ideal for those passionate about family systems, relationship counseling, and therapy-based interventions. Here’s why you might choose this path:
- Specialization in Relationship & Family Therapy – LMFTs are trained to help couples, families, and individuals manage interpersonal challenges and mental health concerns through a systemic lens.
- Growing Demand for Therapists – With 16% job growth projected through 2033, LMFTs are in high demand, particularly in private practice, hospitals, and counseling centers.
- Flexibility in Work Settings – LMFTs often work in private practice, group therapy settings, and schools, allowing them to focus on specific populations.
Opportunity to Become a Clinical Supervisor – Experienced LMFTs can supervise new therapists and expand into leadership roles within therapy organizations. - Shorter Clinical Hour Requirements – Compared to LCSWs, LMFTs often require fewer supervised hours for licensure in many states, allowing for a faster path to independent practice.
If you enjoy working directly with individuals and families to improve their relationships and emotional well-being, an LMFT career could be the right choice.
Why Choose an LCSW Career?
Pursuing an LCSW is an excellent option for those interested in mental health, case management, and broader social work services. Here’s why you might consider this path:
- Diverse Career Opportunities – LCSWs can work in hospitals, government agencies, social service organizations, and clinical settings, offering a wide range of job possibilities.
- Stronger Focus on Mental Health & Advocacy – LCSWs are trained to address mental health concerns, social issues, and systemic inequalities, helping clients access resources like housing, healthcare, and financial assistance.
- Higher Salary Potential in Some Settings – The average salary for LCSWs ($64,360/year) tends to be higher than LMFTs, especially in government and healthcare roles.
- Eligibility for Case Management & Social Services Roles – LCSWs have a broader scope of practice, allowing them to work in public policy, social work leadership, and advocacy positions in addition to therapy.
- Ability to Work in Both Clinical & Non-Clinical Settings – Unlike LMFTs, who primarily provide therapy, LCSWs can also work in social services, case management, and community outreach programs.
If you’re interested in combining therapy with social services and advocacy work, pursuing an LCSW career may be the best fit.
MFT Program Resources
Related Articles
- The ROI of an MFT Degree: Analyzing the Financial Investment in Your Therapy Career
- Who Will You Treat as a Marriage & Family Therapist? A Career Guide for Aspiring MFTs
- LMFT vs MFT: Is Licensure Necessary for Your Therapy Career?
- From Student to Therapist: What to Expect in Your MFT Clinical Internship
- MFT Doctorate Degrees: DMFT vs PhD – Who Should Pursue Each Path?