Best Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT) Degree Programs in New York 2025

New York offers a diverse range of COAMFTE-accredited and regionally approved Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) programs, making it a prime location for students pursuing a career in mental health therapy. With high demand for LMFTs across urban and rural communities, New York provides numerous clinical training opportunities, strong employer networks, and multiple pathways to licensure.

In this guide

2025 Best Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT) Programs in New York

Looking for the best Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT) programs in New York? You're in the right place. At marriagefamilytherapist.org, we've ranked the top programs to help you find the perfect fit. Our list focuses on quality, affordability, and student success. Whether you're starting your career or advancing it, our rankings guide you to the best options. Want to know how we picked these programs? Check out our rankings methodology for details.

#1

Yeshiva University

New York, NY - Private 4-year - yu.edu

Master's - M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy

Campus Based - Visit Website

Yeshiva University's M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy is a licensure-qualifying program set in the heart of New York City, offering a robust 60-credit curriculum. It equips students with essential skills in couples therapy, family dynamics, and crisis intervention through diverse practicum experiences. The program stands out for its expert faculty, high employment rate post-graduation, and opportunities for specialization in areas like children and adolescent counseling. With in-person classes and a fall semester start, it's designed for those seeking a dynamic career in psychological counseling.

  • NYSED Licensure-qualifying program
  • 60 credit hours total
  • In-person classes in NYC
  • Fall semester start
  • Pathway to LMFT licensure
  • Extensive field placement options
  • Four-semester advanced track
  • 100% post-graduation employment
  • Subspecialties available
  • Children and adolescent counseling

Master's - M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy

Concentration: Couples and family crisis counseling - Campus Based - Visit Website

Focusing on couples and family crisis counseling, Yeshiva University's M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy prepares students for licensure and a successful career in mental health. The program emphasizes counseling techniques for diverse populations and complex family dynamics, supported by extensive field placements in NYC. Its highlights include a 100% employment rate post-graduation, specialization options, and a four-semester advanced track, making it ideal for aspiring therapists seeking comprehensive training and practical experience.

  • NYSED Licensure-qualifying program
  • 60 credit hour program
  • Fall semester start
  • In-person NYC classes
  • Four semester advanced track
  • Extensive field placement network
  • Multiple subspecialty options
  • 100% employment rate
  • Career networking opportunities
  • Diverse practicum experiences

Master's - M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy

Concentration: Child and adolescent therapy - Campus Based - Visit Website

Yeshiva University offers a specialized M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy with a concentration in child and adolescent therapy. This 60-credit, licensure-qualifying program in NYC provides intensive training in therapeutic interventions for young populations. Students benefit from a curriculum that includes diverse practicum experiences, leading to a 100% employment rate after graduation. The program features in-person classes, extensive field placement options, and multiple subspecialty tracks, catering to those aiming to make a significant impact in child and adolescent mental health.

  • NYSED Licensure-qualifying program
  • 60 credit hours full-time
  • Fall semester start
  • In-person NYC classes
  • Extensive field placement options
  • Path to becoming LMFT
  • Multiple subspecialty tracks
  • Career networking opportunities
  • 100% employment rate
  • Application deadline July 31
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#2

Syracuse University

Syracuse, NY - Private 4-year - syracuse.edu

Master's - Marriage and Family Therapy, M.A.

Campus Based - Visit Website

Syracuse University's Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy offers a dynamic blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing students for impactful careers in therapy. With options for both residential and online study, the program stands out for its hands-on training at the Couple and Family Therapy Center and community sites. Students benefit from faculty-supervised clinical practice and can enhance their expertise with optional Certificates of Advanced Study in areas like Trauma-Informed Practice and Child Therapy. The program's commitment to live and digital supervision methods ensures a comprehensive learning experience in the heart of Syracuse.

  • Master of Arts (M.A.) degree offered
  • Residential and online program options
  • Hands-on clinical training provided
  • Couple and Family Therapy Center
  • Faculty-supervised clinical practice
  • Optional Certificates of Advanced Study
  • Trauma-Informed Practice CAS available
  • Child Therapy CAS available
  • Located in Peck Hall, Syracuse
  • Live and digital supervision methods

Master's - Marriage and Family Therapy, M.A. Online

Online Learning - Visit Website

The online Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy at Syracuse University is a COAMFTE-accredited program that blends a 60-credit curriculum with a 500-hour clinical practicum. Designed for aspiring therapists, it focuses on cultural humility, social justice, and addressing diverse family and relationship challenges, including trauma and LGBTQ concerns. With over 50 years of department history, the program prepares graduates for licensure and diverse career paths in mental health, emphasizing supervised clinical training and a commitment to transformative mental health services.

  • Fully online master's degree
  • 60-credit comprehensive curriculum
  • 500-hour clinical practicum
  • COAMFTE accredited program
  • Over 50 years department history
  • Social justice framework
  • Prepares for state licensure
  • Diverse career path options
  • Cultural humility focus
  • Supervised clinical training
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#3

University of Rochester

Rochester, NY - Private 4-year - rochester.edu

Master's - MS in Marriage and Family Therapy

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Rochester offers a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy, a 60-credit, COAMFTE-accredited program designed to cultivate skilled, culturally-sensitive therapists. Set within a vibrant medical center, students benefit from interdisciplinary training and hands-on clinical experience across two practicum sites, including a hospital setting. The program fosters systemic thinking and adaptability, preparing graduates for diverse mental health careers. Highlights include weekly individual supervision, community-based clinical sites, and applications accepted year-round. This program stands out for its comprehensive approach to mental health training in a regulated clinic environment, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for the demands of the field.

  • 60-credit MS program
  • COAMFTE Accredited program
  • Fall semester start
  • Two practicum sites
  • Weekly individual supervision
  • Clinical training in hospital setting
  • Community-based clinical sites
  • Applications accepted year-round
  • Interdisciplinary mental health training
  • NYS Office of Mental Health regulated clinic
#4

Hofstra University

Hempstead, NY - Private 4-year - hofstra.edu

Master's - Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy

Campus Based - Visit Website

Hofstra University's Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy stands out for its rigorous 54-credit curriculum designed to equip students with the expertise needed to address intricate family and couple dynamics. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through its on-campus Counseling and Mental Health Professions Clinic, offering students real-world experience. With no GRE requirement, it opens doors for aspiring therapists to focus on gaining practical skills under the mentorship of experienced faculty. The program not only prepares graduates for NY state licensure but also aligns with the growing demand for MFT professionals, evidenced by a 22% projected job growth. Flexible session starts in fall, spring, and summer accommodate diverse student schedules.

  • 54-credit in-person degree
  • No GRE required
  • On-campus clinic internship
  • NY state licensure preparation
  • Fall, spring, summer sessions
  • 22% job growth projected
  • Practice-based courses offered
  • Dedicated faculty guidance
#5

Long Island University

Brookville, NY - Private 4-year - liu.edu

Master's - MS in Marriage and Family Therapy

Campus Based - Visit Website

Long Island University offers a robust MS in Marriage and Family Therapy, a 60-credit program that primes students for licensure in New York State. This program stands out for its deep dive into therapeutic interventions and systemic approaches, tailored for those aiming to address relational dynamics in diverse settings. With a requirement of 1,500 supervised clinical hours, students emerge ready to tackle mental health challenges across individual, couple, and family contexts, underscored by a strong emphasis on multicultural competencies and ethical practice.

  • 60-credit comprehensive MFT program
  • Meets NYS Licensure Requirements
  • Extensive clinical training
  • 1,500 supervised experience hours
  • Diverse therapeutic intervention focus
  • Multicultural counseling emphasis
  • Individual, couple, family therapy
  • Clinical problem treatment
  • Solution-focused approach
  • Internship opportunities
  • Multiple clinical practice courses
  • Ethical practice foundation
  • Advanced theoretical training

Master's - Advanced Certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Advanced Certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy at Long Island University is a focused pathway for professionals seeking to enhance their expertise in systemic therapy. This program mirrors the comprehensive training of the MS degree, including 1,500 supervised clinical hours, but is designed for those who already hold a master's in a related field. It emphasizes solution-focused and evidence-based practices, preparing graduates to deliver impactful mental health services with a keen understanding of multicultural dynamics in therapy.

  • 60-credit comprehensive MFT program
  • Meets NYS licensure requirements
  • 1,500 supervised clinical hours
  • Extensive clinical training
  • Diverse therapeutic intervention focus
  • Multicultural counseling emphasis
  • Individual, couple, family therapy
  • Solution-focused therapeutic approach
  • Evidence-based practice curriculum
  • Internship courses included
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#6

Iona University

New Rochelle, NY - Private 4-year - iona.edu

Master's - Marriage and Family Therapy (MS)

Campus Based - Visit Website

Iona University offers a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy designed to foster compassionate professionals adept at navigating the intricacies of human relationships. The program emphasizes a systemic and holistic approach, preparing students to tackle diverse family dynamics with sensitivity and skill. Through rigorous clinical training, students gain the competencies needed for licensure, enriched by a multicultural perspective that ensures readiness to serve varied populations. The curriculum is rooted in ethical practice and professional development, offering hands-on experiences that translate theoretical knowledge into real-world applications. Graduates emerge as confident therapists capable of making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals, couples, and families.

  • Master's in Marriage & Family Therapy
  • Holistic systemic clinical training
  • Prepares for national licensing
  • Diverse clinical experiences
  • Multicultural professional focus
  • Professional mentorship approach
  • Hands-on learning opportunities
  • Ethical practice emphasized
  • Professional development centered
  • Complex relationship dynamics training
*Source documentation: IPEDS 2023 Technical Review Panel report, NCES.

New York’s Quickest MFT Programs

  • Syracuse University offers a full-time two-year MFT program, allowing students to complete coursework and supervised training efficiently.
  • LIU Post and Hofstra University provide MFT degrees that can be completed in 2.5 years, with accelerated coursework options available.
  • Some online COAMFTE-accredited programs allow students to finish coursework at an accelerated pace, while completing supervised experience within New York-based clinical settings.
  • Students with relevant graduate coursework in psychology or counseling may transfer credits, reducing overall program length.

For students looking to complete their MFT degree as quickly as possible, selecting a structured, full-time program with early internship placements is essential for expediting graduation and licensure eligibility.

New York’s Cheapest MFT Programs

  • SUNY and CUNY universities generally offer lower tuition rates for in-state students, making them the most cost-effective options for MFT education.
  • Syracuse University and Hofstra University provide financial aid, graduate assistantships, and scholarships, helping reduce tuition costs for qualifying students.
  • Loan forgiveness programs for LMFTs working in underserved communities allow students to offset tuition costs while gaining valuable clinical experience.
  • Online programs may provide competitive tuition rates, making them a viable option for students who need affordability and flexibility.

For students prioritizing cost-effective education, applying for state-funded tuition assistance, employer reimbursement programs, and LMFT loan repayment incentives can help minimize student debt.

How to Become Licensed as an LMFT in New York

Earn a Master’s or Doctorate in Marriage and Family Therapy

  • Complete a COAMFTE-accredited or regionally approved MFT program that meets New York’s licensure requirements.
  • Ensure coursework includes family therapy models, ethics, and clinical assessment training.

Complete 1,500 Hours of Supervised Clinical Experience

  • Gain post-graduate clinical hours, with 750 hours of direct client contact under a licensed MFT supervisor.
  • Work in state-approved therapy settings, such as mental health agencies, hospitals, or private practices.

Pass the National MFT Examination

  • Successfully take the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB) National MFT Exam.
  • Demonstrate competency in therapy interventions, ethics, and clinical assessments.

Apply for Licensure Through the New York State Office of Professions

  • Submit official transcripts, proof of supervised hours, and exam scores for licensure approval.
  • Complete any additional requirements mandated by the state licensing board.

Maintain Licensure with Continuing Education

  • Complete 36 continuing education (CE) hours every three years, including coursework in ethics, trauma-informed care, and advanced therapy techniques.
  • Attend workshops, training programs, and online courses to stay up to date with new mental health research.

Following this structured process ensures a smooth transition from student to licensed professional, qualifying LMFTs to work in private practice, school-based mental health services, and teletherapy programs

LMFT Career & Salary Outlook in New York

New York has one of the highest employment rates for LMFTs, with numerous career opportunities in mental health services. The average salary for LMFTs in New York is $75,200 per year, with experienced professionals earning over $110,000 annually.

Where LMFTs Work in New York

  • Private practice settings offer higher salaries and flexibility, making it a popular career path for LMFTs.
  • Hospital-based therapy programs provide job stability and integrated behavioral health care teams.
  • School-based mental health services allow LMFTs to work with children, adolescents, and families in educational settings.
  • Teletherapy expansion in New York has increased demand for LMFTs providing remote counseling services.

With strong salary potential, a growing telehealth sector, and expanding mental health initiatives, New York remains one of the best states for LMFT career development.

New York offers top-tier MFT programs, structured licensure pathways, and diverse career opportunities for licensed therapists. With a variety of accredited university programs, flexible learning formats, and financial aid options, the state is an ideal location for aspiring LMFTs.

For students seeking a high-quality, affordable, and career-focused MFT education, New York’s programs provide the knowledge, hands-on experience, and professional credentials necessary to excel in private practice, behavioral health services, and teletherapy programs. Whether working in urban therapy centers or providing mental health care in rural New York, LMFTs play a critical role in strengthening family dynamics and improving mental health outcomes across the state.