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Missouri Marriage & Family Therapy — Requirements & Free Practice

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Licensed Marital and Family Therapist

Full Missouri licence to practice marital and family therapy.

Licensing authority: State Committee of Marital and Family Therapists · Application information

Licensure by examination — advanced supervision pathway
AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination
Age
At least 18 years old under 337.715.1(5).
Application
Submit the completed application under oath, fee, official graduate transcripts, official national examination score and documentation of supervised experience. Materials normally must arrive at least 30 days before the Committee meeting; a later submission is reviewed only at Committee discretion.
Background check
Submit fingerprints through the approved vendor for Missouri State Highway Patrol and FBI criminal background checks; statutory authority is 337.702 and the current rule and application instructions require the checks before issuance.
Core coursework
The seven areas under 20 CSR 2233-2.010(3) are theoretical foundations (3 semester/5 quarter hours), practice (12/20), human development and family studies (6/10), ethics and professional studies (3/5), research methodology (3/5), practicum (6/10 with COAMFTE minimum client contact), and diagnostic systems (3/5). Coursework is counted once; equivalent and foreign education is subject to committee review and, when required, transcript translation/evaluation.
Criminal eligibility
No disqualifying final adjudication or plea for an offense directly related to occupational duties under 337.715.1(5); disclose applicant history requested by the Committee.
Education
Master, specialist or doctoral degree in marital and family therapy or an equivalent mental-health discipline from a regionally accredited institution. 20 CSR 2233-2.010 accepts COAMFTE marriage-and-family-therapy programs and CACREP marriage, couple and family counseling programs, including degrees awarded within two years before accreditation; nonaccredited or equivalent programs require at least 45 semester or 60 quarter hours and the prescribed core coursework.
Educational path
Doctoral or specialist degree, or at least 30 graduate hours of post-master study in marital and family therapy or an equivalent mental-health discipline, under 20 CSR 2233-2.020(12).
Exam timing
Application identifies the applicant as scheduled to take the AMFTRB national examination.
Older form instruction
The still-posted April 2022 registration form, Statement VII, says "1,500 hours and 12 months obtained within 12 - 24 calendar months for applicants with at least 30 hours post-master’s degree course work in marital and family therapy". The July 30, 2026 rule specifies 750 direct-client-contact hours of additional experience; the posted form is recorded as an applicant instruction.
Passing score
The Committee adopts the AMFTRB criterion-referenced passing point as the minimum passing national score under 20 CSR 2233-2.040(1)(A).
Residency status
United States citizen or legal resident alien under 337.715.1(5).
Suicide training
The application must state completion of two hours of suicide assessment, referral, treatment and management training under 337.712.1; retain documentation as directed by the Committee.
Supervised experience
337.715.1(2) states 24 months of acceptable postgraduate supervised clinical experience as determined by committee rule. 20 CSR 2233-2.020(12) addresses additional supervised experience following the specified advanced study: at least 750 direct-client-contact hours over 12 to 24 calendar months, with at least 15 qualifying hours in a calendar month and the applicable supervisory safeguards. Committee acceptance of the applicant’s postgraduate experience remains required.
Supervisor
Committee-approved and registered supervisor meeting 20 CSR 2233-2.021; supervision is effective as determined in writing by the Committee after required documentation, not automatically on beginning employment. A supervisor may not be a relative. Remain under supervision until fully licensed.
Ordinary qualifications from a jurisdiction without equivalent licensing laws — advanced
AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination
Age
At least 18 years old under 337.715.1(5).
Application
Submit the completed application under oath, fee, official graduate transcripts, official national examination score and documentation of supervised experience. Materials normally must arrive at least 30 days before the Committee meeting; a later submission is reviewed only at Committee discretion.
Background check
Submit fingerprints through the approved vendor for Missouri State Highway Patrol and FBI criminal background checks; statutory authority is 337.702 and the current rule and application instructions require the checks before issuance.
Core coursework
The seven areas under 20 CSR 2233-2.010(3) are theoretical foundations (3 semester/5 quarter hours), practice (12/20), human development and family studies (6/10), ethics and professional studies (3/5), research methodology (3/5), practicum (6/10 with COAMFTE minimum client contact), and diagnostic systems (3/5). Coursework is counted once; equivalent and foreign education is subject to committee review and, when required, transcript translation/evaluation.
Criminal eligibility
No disqualifying final adjudication or plea for an offense directly related to occupational duties under 337.715.1(5); disclose applicant history requested by the Committee.
Education
Master, specialist or doctoral degree in marital and family therapy or an equivalent mental-health discipline from a regionally accredited institution. 20 CSR 2233-2.010 accepts COAMFTE marriage-and-family-therapy programs and CACREP marriage, couple and family counseling programs, including degrees awarded within two years before accreditation; nonaccredited or equivalent programs require at least 45 semester or 60 quarter hours and the prescribed core coursework.
Educational path
Doctoral or specialist degree, or at least 30 graduate hours of post-master study in marital and family therapy or an equivalent mental-health discipline, under 20 CSR 2233-2.020(12).
Older form instruction
The still-posted April 2022 registration form, Statement VII, says "1,500 hours and 12 months obtained within 12 - 24 calendar months for applicants with at least 30 hours post-master’s degree course work in marital and family therapy". The July 30, 2026 rule specifies 750 direct-client-contact hours of additional experience; the posted form is recorded as an applicant instruction.
Passing score
The Committee adopts the AMFTRB criterion-referenced passing point as the minimum passing national score under 20 CSR 2233-2.040(1)(A).
Prior jurisdiction
Applicant comes from a jurisdiction without marital-and-family-therapy licensing laws, or whose requirements the Committee does not find substantially equivalent. 20 CSR 2233-2.030(6) directs the applicant to the ordinary 337.715.1 qualifications. Other-jurisdiction licensure is an applicant condition and is not a Missouri examination leaf.
Residency status
United States citizen or legal resident alien under 337.715.1(5).
Suicide training
The application must state completion of two hours of suicide assessment, referral, treatment and management training under 337.712.1; retain documentation as directed by the Committee.
Supervised experience
337.715.1(2) states 24 months of acceptable postgraduate supervised clinical experience as determined by committee rule. 20 CSR 2233-2.020(12) addresses additional supervised experience following the specified advanced study: at least 750 direct-client-contact hours over 12 to 24 calendar months, with at least 15 qualifying hours in a calendar month and the applicable supervisory safeguards. Committee acceptance of the applicant’s postgraduate experience remains required.
Supervisor
Committee-approved and registered supervisor meeting 20 CSR 2233-2.021; supervision is effective as determined in writing by the Committee after required documentation, not automatically on beginning employment. A supervisor may not be a relative. Remain under supervision until fully licensed.
Licensure by score endorsement — advanced supervision pathway
AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination
Age
At least 18 years old under 337.715.1(5).
Application
Submit the completed application under oath, fee, official graduate transcripts, official national examination score and documentation of supervised experience. Materials normally must arrive at least 30 days before the Committee meeting; a later submission is reviewed only at Committee discretion.
Background check
Submit fingerprints through the approved vendor for Missouri State Highway Patrol and FBI criminal background checks; statutory authority is 337.702 and the current rule and application instructions require the checks before issuance.
Core coursework
The seven areas under 20 CSR 2233-2.010(3) are theoretical foundations (3 semester/5 quarter hours), practice (12/20), human development and family studies (6/10), ethics and professional studies (3/5), research methodology (3/5), practicum (6/10 with COAMFTE minimum client contact), and diagnostic systems (3/5). Coursework is counted once; equivalent and foreign education is subject to committee review and, when required, transcript translation/evaluation.
Criminal eligibility
No disqualifying final adjudication or plea for an offense directly related to occupational duties under 337.715.1(5); disclose applicant history requested by the Committee.
Education
Master, specialist or doctoral degree in marital and family therapy or an equivalent mental-health discipline from a regionally accredited institution. 20 CSR 2233-2.010 accepts COAMFTE marriage-and-family-therapy programs and CACREP marriage, couple and family counseling programs, including degrees awarded within two years before accreditation; nonaccredited or equivalent programs require at least 45 semester or 60 quarter hours and the prescribed core coursework.
Educational path
Doctoral or specialist degree, or at least 30 graduate hours of post-master study in marital and family therapy or an equivalent mental-health discipline, under 20 CSR 2233-2.020(12).
Exam timing
Application identifies the applicant as already having passed the AMFTRB national examination. A passing score remains a leaf because that same examination is currently offered and registered.
Older form instruction
The still-posted April 2022 registration form, Statement VII, says "1,500 hours and 12 months obtained within 12 - 24 calendar months for applicants with at least 30 hours post-master’s degree course work in marital and family therapy". The July 30, 2026 rule specifies 750 direct-client-contact hours of additional experience; the posted form is recorded as an applicant instruction.
Passing score
The Committee adopts the AMFTRB criterion-referenced passing point as the minimum passing national score under 20 CSR 2233-2.040(1)(A).
Residency status
United States citizen or legal resident alien under 337.715.1(5).
Suicide training
The application must state completion of two hours of suicide assessment, referral, treatment and management training under 337.712.1; retain documentation as directed by the Committee.
Supervised experience
337.715.1(2) states 24 months of acceptable postgraduate supervised clinical experience as determined by committee rule. 20 CSR 2233-2.020(12) addresses additional supervised experience following the specified advanced study: at least 750 direct-client-contact hours over 12 to 24 calendar months, with at least 15 qualifying hours in a calendar month and the applicable supervisory safeguards. Committee acceptance of the applicant’s postgraduate experience remains required.
Supervisor
Committee-approved and registered supervisor meeting 20 CSR 2233-2.021; supervision is effective as determined in writing by the Committee after required documentation, not automatically on beginning employment. A supervisor may not be a relative. Remain under supervision until fully licensed.
Late renewal and restoration within two years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Meet the renewal CE requirements of 337.718.1 and 20 CSR 2233-2.050, subject to a Committee-approved waiver or extension.
Expiration
Failure to supply renewal information or pay the fee causes expiration; do not practice under an expired licence.
Late fee
20 CSR 2233-1.040(1)(C) adds $75 for one to 60 days late or $100 for 61 days to two years late, in addition to the $175 renewal fee.
Restoration
337.712.2 provides restoration on written application, licence fee and delinquency fee within two years of the licensure date. The Committee current page describes late renewal through two years after expiration.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2020-04-30.

Licensure by examination — master supervision pathway
AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination
Age
At least 18 years old under 337.715.1(5).
Application
Submit the completed application under oath, fee, official graduate transcripts, official national examination score and documentation of supervised experience. Materials normally must arrive at least 30 days before the Committee meeting; a later submission is reviewed only at Committee discretion.
Background check
Submit fingerprints through the approved vendor for Missouri State Highway Patrol and FBI criminal background checks; statutory authority is 337.702 and the current rule and application instructions require the checks before issuance.
Core coursework
The seven areas under 20 CSR 2233-2.010(3) are theoretical foundations (3 semester/5 quarter hours), practice (12/20), human development and family studies (6/10), ethics and professional studies (3/5), research methodology (3/5), practicum (6/10 with COAMFTE minimum client contact), and diagnostic systems (3/5). Coursework is counted once; equivalent and foreign education is subject to committee review and, when required, transcript translation/evaluation.
Criminal eligibility
No disqualifying final adjudication or plea for an offense directly related to occupational duties under 337.715.1(5); disclose applicant history requested by the Committee.
Education
Master, specialist or doctoral degree in marital and family therapy or an equivalent mental-health discipline from a regionally accredited institution. 20 CSR 2233-2.010 accepts COAMFTE marriage-and-family-therapy programs and CACREP marriage, couple and family counseling programs, including degrees awarded within two years before accreditation; nonaccredited or equivalent programs require at least 45 semester or 60 quarter hours and the prescribed core coursework.
Educational path
Master-degree supervision pathway under 20 CSR 2233-2.020(8).
Exam timing
Application identifies the applicant as scheduled to take the AMFTRB national examination.
Older form instruction
The still-posted April 2022 registration form, Statement VII, says: "the minimum acceptable supervised experience shall be 3,000 hours and 24 months obtained within 24 - 60 calendar months for master’s degree applicants". The July 30, 2026 rule specifies 1,500 direct-client-contact hours; the form is retained as an applicant-facing instruction rather than treated as the current rule text.
Passing score
The Committee adopts the AMFTRB criterion-referenced passing point as the minimum passing national score under 20 CSR 2233-2.040(1)(A).
Residency status
United States citizen or legal resident alien under 337.715.1(5).
Suicide training
The application must state completion of two hours of suicide assessment, referral, treatment and management training under 337.712.1; retain documentation as directed by the Committee.
Supervised experience
Complete at least 1,500 direct-client-contact hours in no fewer than 24 and no more than 60 calendar months, with at least 15 qualifying hours in a calendar month; direct contact may be in person or synchronous visual and verbal telehealth on a HIPAA-compliant platform. Complete at least 104 supervision hours, at least 75 percent individual, with weekly or biweekly supervision as prescribed by rule.
Supervisor
Committee-approved and registered supervisor meeting 20 CSR 2233-2.021; supervision is effective as determined in writing by the Committee after required documentation, not automatically on beginning employment. A supervisor may not be a relative. Remain under supervision until fully licensed.
Ordinary qualifications from a jurisdiction without equivalent licensing laws — master
AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination
Age
At least 18 years old under 337.715.1(5).
Application
Submit the completed application under oath, fee, official graduate transcripts, official national examination score and documentation of supervised experience. Materials normally must arrive at least 30 days before the Committee meeting; a later submission is reviewed only at Committee discretion.
Background check
Submit fingerprints through the approved vendor for Missouri State Highway Patrol and FBI criminal background checks; statutory authority is 337.702 and the current rule and application instructions require the checks before issuance.
Core coursework
The seven areas under 20 CSR 2233-2.010(3) are theoretical foundations (3 semester/5 quarter hours), practice (12/20), human development and family studies (6/10), ethics and professional studies (3/5), research methodology (3/5), practicum (6/10 with COAMFTE minimum client contact), and diagnostic systems (3/5). Coursework is counted once; equivalent and foreign education is subject to committee review and, when required, transcript translation/evaluation.
Criminal eligibility
No disqualifying final adjudication or plea for an offense directly related to occupational duties under 337.715.1(5); disclose applicant history requested by the Committee.
Education
Master, specialist or doctoral degree in marital and family therapy or an equivalent mental-health discipline from a regionally accredited institution. 20 CSR 2233-2.010 accepts COAMFTE marriage-and-family-therapy programs and CACREP marriage, couple and family counseling programs, including degrees awarded within two years before accreditation; nonaccredited or equivalent programs require at least 45 semester or 60 quarter hours and the prescribed core coursework.
Educational path
Master-degree supervision pathway under 20 CSR 2233-2.020(8).
Older form instruction
The still-posted April 2022 registration form, Statement VII, says: "the minimum acceptable supervised experience shall be 3,000 hours and 24 months obtained within 24 - 60 calendar months for master’s degree applicants". The July 30, 2026 rule specifies 1,500 direct-client-contact hours; the form is retained as an applicant-facing instruction rather than treated as the current rule text.
Passing score
The Committee adopts the AMFTRB criterion-referenced passing point as the minimum passing national score under 20 CSR 2233-2.040(1)(A).
Prior jurisdiction
Applicant comes from a jurisdiction without marital-and-family-therapy licensing laws, or whose requirements the Committee does not find substantially equivalent. 20 CSR 2233-2.030(6) directs the applicant to the ordinary 337.715.1 qualifications. Other-jurisdiction licensure is an applicant condition and is not a Missouri examination leaf.
Residency status
United States citizen or legal resident alien under 337.715.1(5).
Suicide training
The application must state completion of two hours of suicide assessment, referral, treatment and management training under 337.712.1; retain documentation as directed by the Committee.
Supervised experience
Complete at least 1,500 direct-client-contact hours in no fewer than 24 and no more than 60 calendar months, with at least 15 qualifying hours in a calendar month; direct contact may be in person or synchronous visual and verbal telehealth on a HIPAA-compliant platform. Complete at least 104 supervision hours, at least 75 percent individual, with weekly or biweekly supervision as prescribed by rule.
Supervisor
Committee-approved and registered supervisor meeting 20 CSR 2233-2.021; supervision is effective as determined in writing by the Committee after required documentation, not automatically on beginning employment. A supervisor may not be a relative. Remain under supervision until fully licensed.
Licensure by score endorsement — master supervision pathway
AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination
Age
At least 18 years old under 337.715.1(5).
Application
Submit the completed application under oath, fee, official graduate transcripts, official national examination score and documentation of supervised experience. Materials normally must arrive at least 30 days before the Committee meeting; a later submission is reviewed only at Committee discretion.
Background check
Submit fingerprints through the approved vendor for Missouri State Highway Patrol and FBI criminal background checks; statutory authority is 337.702 and the current rule and application instructions require the checks before issuance.
Core coursework
The seven areas under 20 CSR 2233-2.010(3) are theoretical foundations (3 semester/5 quarter hours), practice (12/20), human development and family studies (6/10), ethics and professional studies (3/5), research methodology (3/5), practicum (6/10 with COAMFTE minimum client contact), and diagnostic systems (3/5). Coursework is counted once; equivalent and foreign education is subject to committee review and, when required, transcript translation/evaluation.
Criminal eligibility
No disqualifying final adjudication or plea for an offense directly related to occupational duties under 337.715.1(5); disclose applicant history requested by the Committee.
Education
Master, specialist or doctoral degree in marital and family therapy or an equivalent mental-health discipline from a regionally accredited institution. 20 CSR 2233-2.010 accepts COAMFTE marriage-and-family-therapy programs and CACREP marriage, couple and family counseling programs, including degrees awarded within two years before accreditation; nonaccredited or equivalent programs require at least 45 semester or 60 quarter hours and the prescribed core coursework.
Educational path
Master-degree supervision pathway under 20 CSR 2233-2.020(8).
Exam timing
Application identifies the applicant as already having passed the AMFTRB national examination. A passing score remains a leaf because that same examination is currently offered and registered.
Older form instruction
The still-posted April 2022 registration form, Statement VII, says: "the minimum acceptable supervised experience shall be 3,000 hours and 24 months obtained within 24 - 60 calendar months for master’s degree applicants". The July 30, 2026 rule specifies 1,500 direct-client-contact hours; the form is retained as an applicant-facing instruction rather than treated as the current rule text.
Passing score
The Committee adopts the AMFTRB criterion-referenced passing point as the minimum passing national score under 20 CSR 2233-2.040(1)(A).
Residency status
United States citizen or legal resident alien under 337.715.1(5).
Suicide training
The application must state completion of two hours of suicide assessment, referral, treatment and management training under 337.712.1; retain documentation as directed by the Committee.
Supervised experience
Complete at least 1,500 direct-client-contact hours in no fewer than 24 and no more than 60 calendar months, with at least 15 qualifying hours in a calendar month; direct contact may be in person or synchronous visual and verbal telehealth on a HIPAA-compliant platform. Complete at least 104 supervision hours, at least 75 percent individual, with weekly or biweekly supervision as prescribed by rule.
Supervisor
Committee-approved and registered supervisor meeting 20 CSR 2233-2.021; supervision is effective as determined in writing by the Committee after required documentation, not automatically on beginning employment. A supervisor may not be a relative. Remain under supervision until fully licensed.
Licensure reciprocity under 324.009 — nonresident military or law enforcement spouse
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Administrative requirements
Application and fees remain required; the Committee may require fingerprints under 324.009.9.
Compact limitation
This Missouri-only licence does not confer interstate-compact eligibility; a licence obtained in another jurisdiction pursuant to a compact is ineligible for this route under 324.009.11.
Current license
Valid current licence in the same profession and at the same practice level from another state, a United States territory, District of Columbia or branch/unit of the military, held for at least one year; submit proof of current licensure and that one-year period.
Examination waiver
The controlling 324.009.3 waives examination requirements for an eligible reciprocity applicant. No named currently offered examination is required in this waived route.
Good standing
Apply with a valid licence in good standing, no unresolved investigation, pending complaint, disqualifying criminal record or revocation; resolved disciplinary matters are evaluated under 324.009.4(2).
Spouse eligibility
Nonresident spouse of an active-duty service member transferred or scheduled for transfer to Missouri or an adjacent state with Missouri domicile, or moving on permanent change of station; alternatively nonresident spouse of a person who has accepted employment and will become a Missouri law enforcement officer.
Waiver deadline
For an applicant satisfying 324.009.3(2), waive examination, education and experience requirements and issue the licence within 30 days if the other statutory requirements are met.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-08-28.

Biennial renewal of full licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Complete 40 contact hours, at least 20 formal, during the biennial period, including at least two hours in suicide assessment, referral, treatment and management. Verify hours on the renewal form and retain CE records for four years; furnish records for an audit when requested.
Continuing education exception
The Committee may grant an illness or good-cause CE waiver or extension at its discretion. Under 2.050(10), request an extension in writing at least 30 days before expiration with full documentation.
Renewal
Apply and pay the renewal fee before the director-established expiration; the ordinary term is 24 months.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2020-03-30.

Licensure reciprocity under 324.009 — resident military or law enforcement spouse
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Administrative requirements
Application and fees remain required; the Committee may require fingerprints under 324.009.9.
Compact limitation
This Missouri-only licence does not confer interstate-compact eligibility; a licence obtained in another jurisdiction pursuant to a compact is ineligible for this route under 324.009.11.
Current license
Valid current licence in the same profession and at the same practice level from another state, a United States territory, District of Columbia or branch/unit of the military, held for at least one year; submit proof of current licensure and that one-year period.
Examination waiver
The controlling 324.009.3 waives examination requirements for an eligible reciprocity applicant. No named currently offered examination is required in this waived route.
Good standing
Apply with a valid licence in good standing, no unresolved investigation, pending complaint, disqualifying criminal record or revocation; resolved disciplinary matters are evaluated under 324.009.4(2).
Spouse eligibility
Resident spouse of an active-duty service member transferred or scheduled for transfer to Missouri or an adjacent state, with Missouri residence, domicile or home of record; alternatively spouse of a Missouri law enforcement officer.
Waiver deadline
For an applicant satisfying 324.009.3(2), waive examination, education and experience requirements and issue the licence within 30 days if the other statutory requirements are met.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-08-28.

Licensure by substantially equivalent credentials under 337.715.2
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Background check
The July 2026 application requires fingerprinting, the application fee, notarized applicant statement and disclosure of licence and applicant history.
Committee application instruction
The July 2026 Committee reciprocity application says: "YOU MAY APPLY FOR RECIPROCITY IF YOU HAVE BEEN LICENSED AT FULL LICENSURE STATUS FOR ONE YEAR WITH NO DISCIPLINES". This is recorded as the implementing form’s additional applicant instruction.
Current license
Hold a current marital-and-family-therapy licence, registration or permit from another United States jurisdiction, verified by the issuing entity.
Examination waiver
337.715.2 authorizes this otherwise-qualified applicant to be granted a licence without examination; the current reciprocity application identifies no named examination to be passed for this route. Documentation of how the other jurisdiction originally licensed the applicant, including examination results under 2.030(5), is a credential-verification condition, not a newly specified exam slot.
Substantial equivalence
Committee determines the other jurisdiction’s requirements are substantially the same as Missouri; applicant is otherwise qualified, submits the application and fee, and consents to review of disciplinary history.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2020-08-28.

Licensure reciprocity under 324.009 — ordinary applicant
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Administrative requirements
Application and fees remain required; the Committee may require fingerprints under 324.009.9.
Compact limitation
This Missouri-only licence does not confer interstate-compact eligibility; a licence obtained in another jurisdiction pursuant to a compact is ineligible for this route under 324.009.11.
Current license
Valid current licence in the same profession and at the same practice level from another state, a United States territory, District of Columbia or branch/unit of the military, held for at least one year; submit proof of current licensure and that one-year period.
Examination waiver
The controlling 324.009.3 waives examination requirements for an eligible reciprocity applicant. No named currently offered examination is required in this waived route.
Good standing
Apply with a valid licence in good standing, no unresolved investigation, pending complaint, disqualifying criminal record or revocation; resolved disciplinary matters are evaluated under 324.009.4(2).
Original qualifications
For the ordinary six-month waiver, the oversight body determines that minimum education and applicable experience/clinical-supervision requirements existed and the prior jurisdiction verifies they were met.
State law exam permission
324.009.3(1) permits an oversight body that already administers an examination on Missouri laws to require it. Current MFT examination rule 20 CSR 2233-2.040 adopts only the AMFTRB examination; this permission does not identify another MFT examination.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-08-28.

Provisional Licensed Marital and Family Therapist

Provisional licence under a committee-approved supervisor; supervised clinical experience is the statutory outstanding qualification.

Licensing authority: State Committee of Marital and Family Therapists · Application information

Initial provisional licensure — advanced
AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination
Age
At least 18 years old under 337.715.1(5).
Application
Submit the completed application under oath, fee, official graduate transcripts, official national examination score and documentation of supervised experience. Materials normally must arrive at least 30 days before the Committee meeting; a later submission is reviewed only at Committee discretion.
Background check
Submit fingerprints through the approved vendor for Missouri State Highway Patrol and FBI criminal background checks; statutory authority is 337.702 and the current rule and application instructions require the checks before issuance.
Core coursework
The seven areas under 20 CSR 2233-2.010(3) are theoretical foundations (3 semester/5 quarter hours), practice (12/20), human development and family studies (6/10), ethics and professional studies (3/5), research methodology (3/5), practicum (6/10 with COAMFTE minimum client contact), and diagnostic systems (3/5). Coursework is counted once; equivalent and foreign education is subject to committee review and, when required, transcript translation/evaluation.
Criminal eligibility
No disqualifying final adjudication or plea for an offense directly related to occupational duties under 337.715.1(5); disclose applicant history requested by the Committee.
Education
Master, specialist or doctoral degree in marital and family therapy or an equivalent mental-health discipline from a regionally accredited institution. 20 CSR 2233-2.010 accepts COAMFTE marriage-and-family-therapy programs and CACREP marriage, couple and family counseling programs, including degrees awarded within two years before accreditation; nonaccredited or equivalent programs require at least 45 semester or 60 quarter hours and the prescribed core coursework.
Educational path
Doctoral or specialist degree, or at least 30 graduate hours of post-master study in marital and family therapy or an equivalent mental-health discipline, under 20 CSR 2233-2.020(12).
Passing score
The Committee adopts the AMFTRB criterion-referenced passing point as the minimum passing national score under 20 CSR 2233-2.040(1)(A).
Practice restrictions
No independent private practice, personal client billing or unaffiliated therapy. Advertising identifies the registered supervisor; services, reports and records remain under that supervisor’s control. Both applicant and supervisor must be employed at or contractually affiliated with the same approved setting.
Provisional duration
The advanced-study provisional licence is valid for at least two years from issuance, subject to its expiration, termination of supervision or discipline.
Residency status
United States citizen or legal resident alien under 337.715.1(5).
Suicide training
The application must state completion of two hours of suicide assessment, referral, treatment and management training under 337.712.1; retain documentation as directed by the Committee.
Supervised experience
The 337.700(9) provisional definition exempts completion of supervised clinical experience, and otherwise requires the full licence qualifications. The applicant practices only under an approved supervisor while completing the applicable advanced experience pathway.
Supervisor
Committee-approved and registered supervisor meeting 20 CSR 2233-2.021; supervision is effective as determined in writing by the Committee after required documentation, not automatically on beginning employment. A supervisor may not be a relative. Remain under supervision until fully licensed.
Good cause extension of advanced provisional licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Duration
Underlying advanced provisional licence remains subject to expiration, termination of supervision or discipline.
Existing license
Hold the provisional licence issued for the advanced education pathway and remain in approved licensure supervision.
Request
Submit a written request before the provisional licence expires; extension is solely at the Committee’s discretion for good cause.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-07-30.

Initial provisional licensure — master
AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination
Age
At least 18 years old under 337.715.1(5).
Application
Submit the completed application under oath, fee, official graduate transcripts, official national examination score and documentation of supervised experience. Materials normally must arrive at least 30 days before the Committee meeting; a later submission is reviewed only at Committee discretion.
Background check
Submit fingerprints through the approved vendor for Missouri State Highway Patrol and FBI criminal background checks; statutory authority is 337.702 and the current rule and application instructions require the checks before issuance.
Core coursework
The seven areas under 20 CSR 2233-2.010(3) are theoretical foundations (3 semester/5 quarter hours), practice (12/20), human development and family studies (6/10), ethics and professional studies (3/5), research methodology (3/5), practicum (6/10 with COAMFTE minimum client contact), and diagnostic systems (3/5). Coursework is counted once; equivalent and foreign education is subject to committee review and, when required, transcript translation/evaluation.
Criminal eligibility
No disqualifying final adjudication or plea for an offense directly related to occupational duties under 337.715.1(5); disclose applicant history requested by the Committee.
Education
Master, specialist or doctoral degree in marital and family therapy or an equivalent mental-health discipline from a regionally accredited institution. 20 CSR 2233-2.010 accepts COAMFTE marriage-and-family-therapy programs and CACREP marriage, couple and family counseling programs, including degrees awarded within two years before accreditation; nonaccredited or equivalent programs require at least 45 semester or 60 quarter hours and the prescribed core coursework.
Educational path
Master-degree supervision pathway under 20 CSR 2233-2.020(8).
Passing score
The Committee adopts the AMFTRB criterion-referenced passing point as the minimum passing national score under 20 CSR 2233-2.040(1)(A).
Practice restrictions
No independent private practice, personal client billing or unaffiliated therapy. Advertising identifies the registered supervisor; services, reports and records remain under that supervisor’s control. Both applicant and supervisor must be employed at or contractually affiliated with the same approved setting.
Provisional duration
The master-degree provisional licence is valid for at least three years from issuance, subject to its expiration, termination of supervision or discipline.
Residency status
United States citizen or legal resident alien under 337.715.1(5).
Suicide training
The application must state completion of two hours of suicide assessment, referral, treatment and management training under 337.712.1; retain documentation as directed by the Committee.
Supervised experience
The 337.700(9) provisional definition exempts completion of supervised clinical experience, and otherwise requires the full licence qualifications. The applicant practices only under an approved supervisor while completing the applicable master experience pathway.
Supervisor
Committee-approved and registered supervisor meeting 20 CSR 2233-2.021; supervision is effective as determined in writing by the Committee after required documentation, not automatically on beginning employment. A supervisor may not be a relative. Remain under supervision until fully licensed.
Good cause extension of master provisional licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Duration
Underlying master provisional licence remains subject to expiration, termination of supervision or discipline.
Existing license
Hold the provisional licence issued for the master education pathway and remain in approved licensure supervision.
Request
Submit a written request before the provisional licence expires; extension is solely at the Committee’s discretion for good cause.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-07-30.

AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination

Provider
Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB); administered for AMFTRB by Professional Testing Corporation (PTC) at Prometric computer-based testing centers
Format
Computer-based examination of objective multiple-choice questions, each with four alternative answers of which only one is correct; given during a one-week testing window every month; scores on the six domains and the total examination are reported after the window closes
Exam questions
180 multiple-choice items
Time limit
4 hours total testing time
Passing score
Criterion-referenced passing score set on an anchor examination by a modified Angoff method and adjusted across forms by equating; the reported score equals the total number of correct responses
Exam fee
US $370.00 examination fee (includes testing center fees)
Examination outline
  • Domain 01 — The Practice of Systemic Therapy — Tasks related to incorporating systemic theory and perspectives into practice activities, and establishing and maintaining ongoing therapeutic relationships with the client system inclusive of diverse cultural contexts. (16%; 29 items) (16%)
    • 01.01 Conceptualize therapy consistent with the philosophical perspectives of systemic theory.
    • 01.02 Maintain consistency between systemic theory and clinical practice.
    • 01.03 Integrate individual treatment approaches with systemic treatment approaches.
    • 01.04 Integrate multiple dimensions of diversity and social justice theories with systemic treatment approaches.
    • 01.05 Use a systemic perspective to co-create a safe, inclusive, and non-judgmental space.
    • 01.06 Use a systemic perspective to co-create a therapeutic relationship with the client system.
    • 01.07 Use a systemic perspective to understand the complexities inherent in therapeutic interactions (e.g., family homeostasis, self of the therapist).
  • Domain 02 — Assessing, Hypothesizing, and Diagnosing — Tasks related to assessing and conceptualizing the various dimensions of the client system inclusive of diverse cultural contexts, including forming and reformulating systemic hypotheses and diagnosing the client system to guide therapeutic activities and interventions, including use of artificial intelligence (AI) as appropriate. (16%; 29 items) (16%)
    • 02.01 Assess the client system’s verbal and non-verbal communication styles to develop hypotheses about relationship patterns, perceptions, and responses to the reciprocal influence of relational patterns and the presenting issues.
    • 02.02 Assess the mental status of clients.
    • 02.03 Assess historic and current self-injurious behavior, suicidal ideation and intent, and/or homicidal ideation and intent.
    • 02.04 Identify and assess behavioral dynamics, processes, and interactional patterns (e.g., boundaries, roles, rules, alliances, coalitions, and hierarchies) within the client system to determine systemic functioning.
    • 02.05 Formulate and continually assess hypotheses regarding the client system that consider and incorporate diverse contexts.
    • 02.06 Assess appropriateness of potential treatment and therapeutic delivery modalities for the client system.
    • 02.07 Assess environmental factors (e.g., discrimination, gang violence, migration) affecting the client system.
    • 02.08 Assess the client system’s levels of economic, social, emotional, physical, spiritual, and cognitive functioning.
    • 02.09 Assess historic and current effects of substance use disorders on the functioning of the client system.
    • 02.10 Assess historic and current effects of violence or trauma, including vicarious trauma, on the client system.
    • 02.11 Assess historic and current effects of childhood experiences and traumas on the client system.
    • 02.12 Assess historic and current effects of impact of process use disorders (e.g., gambling, internet use, technology use, shopping) on functioning of the client system.
    • 02.13 Assess historic and current effects of sexual functioning on the client system.
    • 02.14 Assess how the developmental and family life cycle stages of the client system impact problem formation, maintenance, and resolution.
    • 02.15 Assess strengths, resources, coping skills, and resilience within and available to the client system.
    • 02.16 Select, administer, review, and/or interpret results of standardized instruments within the therapist’s training, competence, and scope of practice.
    • 02.17 Assess and diagnose clients in accordance with current DSM and ICD diagnostic criteria while maintaining a systems perspective.
    • 02.18 Formulate treatment hypotheses that integrate systemic perspectives, assessment inventories, and diagnostic impressions.
    • 02.19 Assess effects of occupational issues on the client system (e.g., military personnel, workers in geographically dispersed locations, first responders).
    • 02.20 Collaborate with the client system to determine need for evaluation by other professional and community systems.
    • 02.21 Collaborate with professional and community systems as appropriate in making diagnoses and establishing treatment priorities.
    • 02.22 Collaborate with the client system to refer as appropriate based on diagnoses and treatment priorities.
  • Domain 03 — Designing and Conducting Treatment — Tasks related to developing and implementing a course of culturally responsive treatment with the client system, including identifying possible therapeutic models, implementing associated interventions, and treatment planning, including use of artificial intelligence (AI) as appropriate. (17%; 30 items) (17%)
    • 03.01 Evaluate and maintain a quality therapeutic alliance with the client system.
    • 03.02 Establish therapeutic contracts.
    • 03.03 Utilize assessment information to develop a treatment plan that reflects a contextual understanding of the presenting issue.
    • 03.04 Determine relevant short-term goals, long-term goals and objectives for treatment, as well as criteria for successful completion of treatment.
    • 03.05 Identify the client system’s previous and current attempts to resolve the presenting issues.
    • 03.06 Identify members of client and collateral systems involved in resolving issues.
    • 03.07 Develop and monitor ongoing safety plan to address identified safety risks for the client in all therapeutic delivery contexts.
    • 03.08 Engage in therapeutic interventions based on theory and current research and a shared contextual understanding of the client system and presenting issues.
    • 03.09 Clarify with the client system the rationale for selecting therapeutic interventions as appropriate.
    • 03.10 Collaborate with the client system to determine sequence of treatment and identify which members will be involved.
    • 03.11 Develop and monitor recovery-oriented systemic care for treatment of substance use disorders.
    • 03.12 Use genograms and/or family mapping as therapeutic interventions as indicated.
    • 03.13 Facilitate client system change through restructuring and reorganization.
    • 03.14 Collaborate with the client system to identify and explore competing priorities of client issues to be addressed in treatment.
    • 03.15 Assist the client system in developing decision-making, coping, and effective verbal and non-verbal communication skills in their relational contexts.
    • 03.16 Attend to the homeostatic process and its impact on the client system’s ability to attain therapeutic goals.
    • 03.17 Assist the client system in developing alternative perspectives of the presenting issues to facilitate solutions.
    • 03.18 Influence client behavior and perceptions through use of metaphor, rewriting narratives, mindfulness, etc.
    • 03.19 Integrate cultural, spiritual, social, intellectual, and biological characteristics and strengths of the client system when devising effective treatment strategies.
    • 03.20 Recognize and support client autonomy when devising effective treatment strategies.
    • 03.21 Maintain awareness of common side effects of medications, monitor client system for these within the boundaries of professional competence, and coordinate care with any relevant prescribers.
    • 03.22 Adapt therapeutic stance and interventions to accommodate the process and structure of all therapeutic delivery modalities.
  • Domain 04 — Evaluating Ongoing Process and Terminating Treatment — Tasks related to continuously evaluating the therapeutic process, incorporating feedback into the course of treatment, and planning for termination, inclusive of different cultural contexts and use of artificial intelligence (AI) as appropriate. (16%; 29 items) (16%)
    • 04.01 Use theory and current research in the ongoing evaluation of process, outcomes, and termination.
    • 04.02 Evaluate the progress of therapy in collaboration with client and collateral systems as indicated.
    • 04.03 Modify treatment plan in collaboration with client and collateral systems as indicated.
    • 04.04 Continually evaluate client system appropriateness for all therapeutic delivery modalities.
    • 04.05 Develop a termination plan in collaboration with the client and collateral systems to maintain therapeutic gains after treatment has ended.
    • 04.06 Terminate therapeutic relationship in a professional and culturally responsive manner.
  • Domain 05 — Managing Crisis Situations — Tasks related to assessing and managing emergency situations, inclusive of different cultural contexts, and intervening when clinically indicated and/or legally mandated. (16%; 29 items) (16%)
    • 05.01 Assess impairment in the client system during crisis situations to determine if and what immediate interventions may be needed.
    • 05.02 Assess for presence of suicidal ideation and determine the level of intervention.
    • 05.03 Assess for risk of violence toward the client from others to determine the need for intervention.
    • 05.04 Assess the client’s potential for self-injurious behavior to determine level of intervention.
    • 05.05 Assess the client’s potential for violence or harm toward others, including the therapist, to determine level of intervention.
    • 05.06 Assess risk of violence toward therapist from sources outside of the client system and develop a safety plan.
    • 05.07 Assess impact of community-level crisis on client system and develop interventions as they pertain to that crisis.
    • 05.08 Assess the impact of client system’s trauma history and other relevant contextual factors on current crisis.
    • 05.09 Collaborate with other relevant stakeholders in managing client system’s crisis.
    • 05.10 Respond to emerging crisis as appropriate to the therapeutic delivery modality and use relevant crisis resources.
  • Domain 06 — Maintaining Ethical, Legal, and Professional Standards — Tasks related to ongoing adherence to legal and ethical codes and treatment agreements, maintaining culturally responsive competency, upholding professional standards, and utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) in clinical practice. (19%; 34 items) (19%)
    • 06.01 Demonstrate professional responsibility and competence regarding legal issues and regulations across therapeutic delivery modalities, including use of artificial intelligence (AI).
    • 06.02 Compare agency and employment policies with relevant ethics code, statutes, case law, and regulations and privilege the higher standard.
    • 06.03 Integrate current ethical codes of licensing boards, relevant professional organizations, and associations into appropriate professional practice.
    • 06.04 Adhere to relevant business laws related to clinical practice (e.g., Stark Law, Anti-Kickback Statute, False Claims Act, etc.)
    • 06.05 Practice within therapist’s scope of competence.
    • 06.06 Maintain awareness of and effectively manage how the therapist’s personal issues, life experiences, values and morals, and previous trauma impact the therapeutic process.
    • 06.07 Maintain awareness of and effectively manage how the supervisors’ personal issues, life experiences, values and morals, and previous trauma influence the supervisory process
    • 06.08 Adhere to treatment agreements with client systems and respect the rights of clients.
    • 06.09 Provide the client system with written professional disclosures regarding fees, credentials, reporting complaints, confidentiality, privileged communication, and providing technologically assisted services, including use of artificial intelligence (AI), etc.
    • 06.10 Confirm the client system’s identities, locations, and safety levels at the beginning of each teletherapy session.
    • 06.11 Monitor and mitigate risk for potential exploitation of the client system by the therapist.
    • 06.12 Consult with colleagues and other professionals as necessary regarding ethical and legal issues, and document these consultations.
    • 06.13 Respect the roles and responsibilities of other professionals involved in the client system’s treatment process as they relate to ethical and legal issues.
    • 06.14 Maintain accurate and timely records including long-term safe and confidential storage and plan record transfer and/or disposal within timeframes specified by current statutes.
    • 06.15 Adhere to ethical and regulatory guidelines for engaging in the supervisor-supervisee relationship across modalities.
Examination sources