Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT) Degree Programs in Wyoming 2025

Wyoming has limited in-state options for COAMFTE-accredited Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) programs, but students interested in becoming Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs) can still pursue regionally accredited counseling programs with an MFT focus or enroll in COAMFTE-accredited online programs from neighboring states.

With Wyoming’s largely rural population and increasing mental health needs, licensed therapists are in high demand, particularly in small towns and underserved communities. LMFTs in Wyoming play an essential role in providing therapy for families, couples, and individuals facing issues such as addiction, trauma, and relationship challenges. While students may need to look outside the state for COAMFTE-accredited programs, Wyoming offers flexible licensure pathways for those who complete their education through online or out-of-state institutions.

In this guide

MFT Programs in Wyoming

Wyoming does not currently offer COAMFTE-accredited MFT programs, but students can still find regionally accredited master’s programs that meet state LMFT licensure requirements. Additionally, out-of-state online programs allow Wyoming residents to complete coursework remotely while gaining clinical training within the state.

Top MFT-Related Program in Wyoming

University of Wyoming – Master of Science in Counseling 
This regionally accredited counseling program provides training in mental health interventions, family systems therapy, and clinical practice. While it is not COAMFTE-accredited, students can tailor their studies to meet LMFT licensure requirements through elective coursework and supervised clinical training.

For students looking for a COAMFTE-accredited MFT program, online programs from nearby states like Colorado and Utah offer fully accredited options that align with Wyoming’s LMFT licensure standards.

Wyoming’s Quickest MFT Programs

Students seeking the quickest way to become an LMFT in Wyoming can explore accelerated degree pathways, online programs, and full-time coursework to shorten their time to licensure.

Steps to Complete an MFT Degree More Quickly

Choose a Full-Time Program: Completing an MFT degree on a full-time schedule typically takes two to three years, while part-time students may take four years or longer.
Select an Online COAMFTE-Accredited Program: Many online MFT programs offer accelerated coursework, allowing students to graduate in as little as 18–24 months while completing clinical requirements locally.
Begin Clinical Hours Early: Programs that allow students to start supervised clinical training in their second year enable faster completion of licensure requirements.
Transfer Graduate-Level Credits: Those with previous coursework in psychology, counseling, or social work may be able to apply transfer credits, reducing the number of required courses.

By selecting an MFT program that integrates early clinical training and accelerated coursework, students in Wyoming can qualify for LMFT licensure more efficiently.

Wyoming’s Cheapest MFT Programs

Since Wyoming does not have COAMFTE-accredited MFT programs, students can explore cost-effective education options through public universities, online programs, and financial aid opportunities.

Ways to Make an MFT Degree More Affordable

Choose Public Universities: Schools like University of Wyoming often offer lower tuition rates than private institutions.
Apply for Wyoming-Based Scholarships: The state provides grants and financial aid for students pursuing mental health careers.
Consider Loan Forgiveness Programs: LMFTs who work in high-need or rural areas may qualify for federal and state loan repayment programs, reducing education costs.
Seek Employer Tuition Assistance: Some mental health agencies, hospitals, and nonprofit organizations provide tuition reimbursement for employees completing MFT degrees.
Explore Online Programs with Competitive Tuition: Many COAMFTE-accredited online programs offer lower tuition rates than private in-state programs, making them a viable alternative.

By exploring affordable education pathways, scholarships, and loan repayment options, students can reduce financial barriers while pursuing an MFT degree in Wyoming.

How to Become Licensed as an LMFT in Wyoming

To become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in Wyoming, candidates must complete specific educational, clinical, and examination requirements set by the Wyoming Mental Health Professions Licensing Board. Below is a step-by-step guide to obtaining LMFT licensure in the state.

1. Earn a Master’s or Doctoral Degree in Marriage & Family Therapy
To qualify for LMFT licensure in Wyoming, applicants must complete a master’s or doctoral degree in Marriage and Family Therapy or a closely related field from a regionally accredited institution. While COAMFTE accreditation is not required, the program must include coursework in:

Marriage and family therapy theories
Human development and psychopathology
Ethics and professional counseling laws
Clinical assessment and intervention strategies

If the degree is in a related field (e.g., clinical mental health counseling, social work, or psychology), additional coursework in family systems therapy may be required.

2. Complete 3,000 Hours of Supervised Clinical Experience
After earning a degree, applicants must complete 3,000 hours of post-graduate supervised clinical experience, including:

1,500 direct client contact hours, with at least 750 hours dedicated to couples and family therapy.
100 hours of clinical supervision from a licensed MFT supervisor.

Clinical experience must take place in an approved setting, such as a private practice, hospital, community mental health center, or school-based counseling program.

3. Pass the National MFT Examination
Candidates must take and pass the Association of Marital & Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB) National MFT Exam, which assesses:

Clinical and theoretical knowledge in marriage and family therapy
Diagnostic and treatment planning skills
Ethical and legal responsibilities in clinical practice

The exam is administered year-round at approved testing centers and is a nationally recognized requirement for licensure in most states.

4. Submit a Wyoming LMFT Licensure Application
Once the education, clinical training, and exam requirements are met, candidates must apply for licensure through the Wyoming Mental Health Professions Licensing Board. The application requires:

Official transcripts from a graduate program
Verification of supervised clinical experience
National MFT exam results
Licensing fees and background check forms

Incomplete applications may delay the licensing process, so applicants should ensure all required documentation is submitted.

5. Obtain LMFT Licensure & Begin Practicing
After receiving licensure approval, LMFTs in Wyoming can begin practicing independently in private practice, hospitals, mental health clinics, and other therapy settings. Some therapists specialize in areas such as trauma counseling, addiction recovery, or school-based therapy to expand their career opportunities.

6. Maintain LMFT Licensure with Continuing Education
Licensed MFTs in Wyoming must renew their license every two years, which requires completing at least 45 hours of continuing education (CE), including:

3 hours of ethics training
Training in specialized therapy techniques, trauma-informed care, or telehealth services
Workshops, conferences, or online coursework approved by the licensing board

Staying up to date with professional development and new therapy methods helps LMFTs enhance their skills and maintain an active license in Wyoming.
By following these six steps, aspiring LMFTs in Wyoming can meet all licensure requirements, establish a successful career in therapy, and contribute to the growing mental health field across the state.

LMFT Career & Salary Outlook in Wyoming

Wyoming has a critical need for mental health professionals, particularly in rural areas where access to therapy services is limited. LMFTs can expect strong job prospects, with opportunities in private practice, school counseling programs, hospital systems, and community-based mental health services.

Earnings & Job Growth for LMFTs in Wyoming
The average salary for LMFTs in Wyoming is approximately $60,500 per year, though actual earnings vary based on location, experience, and work setting. Entry-level LMFTs typically earn around $48,000 per year, while those in private practice or advanced clinical positions can earn $85,000 or more annually.

Therapists in private practice often earn higher salaries, especially those specializing in relationship counseling, trauma therapy, or addiction recovery.
LMFTs working in hospitals and behavioral health clinics can expect steady salaries with benefits, particularly in integrated care settings.
School-based LMFTs and those working in nonprofit mental health agencies often earn modest salaries, but they may qualify for loan forgiveness and grant funding in exchange for serving high-need populations.

Wyoming’s Expanding Mental Health Network
As mental health awareness increases, Wyoming has been expanding public and private therapy services, with an emphasis on family counseling, addiction treatment, and teletherapy options. Given the state’s rural geography, many LMFTs are using telehealth platforms to reach clients in remote areas, creating new job opportunities in virtual therapy and online counseling services.

Is Wyoming a Good Place for LMFTs?
Wyoming provides a stable career path for LMFTs, particularly for those willing to serve rural and underserved populations. While the state does not have COAMFTE-accredited programs, students can still qualify for licensure through regionally accredited programs and online options.

For those considering a career as an LMFT in Wyoming, the state’s growing demand for therapists, rural mental health initiatives, and increasing teletherapy services make it an appealing location to establish a career in family therapy. Whether working in private practice, community mental health, or school-based therapy programs, LMFTs in Wyoming play a crucial role in strengthening mental health services statewide.

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