Best Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT) Degree Programs in Rhode Island 2025

Rhode Island provides an excellent opportunity for students pursuing a career in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT). Students looking to become licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs) can find accredited programs that align with licensure requirements, ensuring they receive the necessary education and clinical training. With an increasing need for mental health professionals, particularly in Providence and surrounding communities, LMFTs play a critical role in expanding family and relationship therapy services throughout the state.

In this guide

2026 Best Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT) Programs in Rhode Island

Finding the right Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) program in Rhode Island can shape your career. At marriagefamilytherapist.org, we carefully rank these programs to help you choose the best fit for your goals. Our list highlights schools that offer strong training, experienced faculty, and good support for students. We focus on what makes each program stand out in preparing you for real-world therapy work. Whether you are starting out or advancing your skills, our rankings give you clear insights to make a smart decision. Learn more about how we create our rankings at https://marriagefamilytherapist.org/rankings-methodology/.

University of Rhode Island

Kingston, RI - Public 4-Year - web.uri.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Human Development and Family Science

Concentration: Couple and Family Therapy - Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Rhode Island's COAMFTE-accredited Master of Science in Human Development and Family Science with a Couple and Family Therapy concentration prepares students for licensure through innovative outcome management training. Students develop hands-on skills in the on-campus therapy clinic, learning integrative techniques and mental health treatment expertise. The program emphasizes diversity, collaboration, and strength-based practice, positioning graduates for successful careers nationwide. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program.

COAMFTE Accredited Program
Innovative Outcome Management Training
On-campus Therapy Clinic
Mental Health Licensure Preparation
Strength-based Learning Approach
Diverse and Inclusive Environment
Graduate Employment Nationwide

*Credit: NCES, Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System, 2023.

Rhode Island’s Quickest MFT Programs

Students seeking the quickest path to LMFT licensure must consider out-of-state or online programs that meet Rhode Island’s licensure requirements. The total time to become an LMFT typically ranges from 4 to 6 years, depending on the program format and supervised clinical training.

Ways to Complete an MFT Degree Faster

Enroll in a Full-Time MFT Program: Many COAMFTE-accredited online or out-of-state programs allow students to complete their master’s degree in 2–2.5 years with intensive coursework and early clinical placements.
Choose an Accelerated Online MFT Program: Some online COAMFTE-accredited universities offer accelerated MFT programs, allowing students to complete coursework in as little as 20–24 months.
Complete Clinical Hours
While Finishing Coursework: Some programs allow students to begin supervised clinical training during their second year, helping them complete licensure requirements more quickly.
Transfer Eligible Graduate Credits: Students with previous coursework in psychology or counseling may qualify for credit transfers, reducing the total number of courses required.
Pursue a Doctorate (PhD or DMFT) While Gaining Supervised Experience: If interested in academic or research careers, students can enroll in doctoral MFT programs that allow them to complete clinical hours while working toward advanced credentials.

For those seeking a fast-track to LMFT licensure, selecting a structured program with full-time study options and early internship placements ensures an efficient path to professional practice.

Rhode Island’s Cheapest MFT Programs

Students can find affordable MFT education options through public universities, hybrid programs, and online degree pathways.

Ways to Make an MFT Degree More Affordable

Consider COAMFTE-Accredited Online Programs: Many out-of-state online universities offer competitive tuition rates for Rhode Island students, sometimes at lower costs than private universities in-state.
Apply for Financial Aid & Scholarships: Many universities provide merit-based scholarships, need-based grants, and assistantships to help students reduce tuition costs.
Look for Employer Tuition Reimbursement: Many hospitals, mental health agencies, and school districts offer tuition assistance for employees pursuing an MFT degree.
Use Loan Forgiveness & Repayment Programs: Rhode Island provides loan forgiveness incentives for LMFTs working in high-need mental health settings, such as rural areas, nonprofit counseling centers, and community health agencies.
Work While Earning Your Degree: Online and hybrid MFT programs offer flexible schedules, allowing students to continue working while completing their master’s degree.

For students seeking affordable tuition and financial support, exploring state-funded tuition assistance, federal aid programs, and employer-based education benefits can help make MFT education more accessible and cost-effective.

How to Become Licensed as an LMFT in Rhode Island

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

Choose a COAMFTE-accredited online program or a regionally accredited out-of-state program.
Ensure that the coursework meets Rhode Island’s licensure requirements, including topics such as family therapy models, clinical assessment, and ethics.

Complete 2,000 Hours of Supervised Clinical Experience

Gain post-graduate clinical experience under a licensed MFT supervisor, with at least 1,000 hours dedicated to direct client contact.
Work in approved therapy settings, such as mental health clinics, hospitals, or private practices.

Pass the National MFT Examination

Take the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB) National MFT Exam to demonstrate clinical competency and ethical knowledge.

Apply for Licensure Through the Rhode Island Board of Mental Health Counselors and Marriage and Family Therapists

Submit official transcripts, proof of supervised clinical hours, and passing exam scores for licensure approval.
Complete any additional licensing requirements, such as background checks and ethics training.

Maintain Licensure with Continuing Education

Complete 40 continuing education (CE) hours every renewal cycle, including courses in professional ethics, trauma-informed therapy, and advanced clinical training.
Attend workshops, therapy conferences, and online courses to stay updated on best practices in the mental health field.

LMFT Career & Salary Outlook in Rhode Island

With the increasing need for mental health services, LMFTs in Rhode Island can expect a positive job outlook and competitive salaries. The average salary for LMFTs in Rhode Island is $65,900 per year, with experienced professionals earning over $95,000 annually.

Where MFTs Work in Rhode Island

Private practices – LMFTs can operate their own practice or work within group counseling settings.
Hospitals & healthcare systems – Many LMFTs collaborate with physicians and psychiatrists to provide integrated mental health care.
School-based counseling programs – LMFTs help students and families navigate academic stress, behavioral issues, and emotional challenges.
Community mental health organizations – Many LMFTs work in nonprofit counseling centers, offering therapy to low-income and at-risk populations.
Teletherapy services – Remote therapy options allow LMFTs to serve clients across Rhode Island, improving mental health access in rural communities.

With a rising demand for licensed therapists, expanding career opportunities, and growing acceptance of telehealth services, Rhode Island offers a promising career path for LMFTs.

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