How MFTs Stack Up

IV. Summary and Conclusion

Each of the three licensing laws reviewed have their differences, yet there are similarities. Each has their strengths and their weaknesses, whether real or perceived. Each of the provisions reviewed are enforced and regulated by the licensing boards with various degrees of effectiveness. Some of the differences are significant, and some are insignificant. The laws and regulations pertaining to each profession are founded upon differing theories. Again, our purpose is not to criticize, but to compare. From the perspective of the marriage and family therapists profession, however, it should be clear from a review of this article (and the complete licensing laws and regulations applicable to each profession) that the requirements for MFT licensure are substantial and detailed, and that they measure up with the psychology and clinical social work professions. Thus, if and when questioned by a prospective employer, attorney, insurer, managed care company, colleague in another profession, or anyone else, the MFT should not hesitate to make use of the comparisons covered by this article.

This article appeared in the November/December 1993 issue of The California Therapist. It is reprinted with permission of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, 7901 Raytheon Road, San Diego, CA 92111-1606.

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