What Marriage and Family Therapists Can (and Can’t) Legally Do

Many people have misconceptions about Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs) in California, and what they do. Do they only work with couples? Families? Can they diagnose? What about testing? How do they compare to other mental health providers? Here’s what you need to know about LMFTs, clearing up some persistent myths.

Also see our Guide to Laws About Mental Health Professionals in California.

Can LMFTs treat individual clients?

Yes. LMFTs are trained and licensed to provide psychotherapy to individuals, just like LPCCs (Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors), LCSWs (Licensed Clinical Social Workers), and licensed clinical psychologists. The term “marriage and family” reflects their training in relational and systemic theory, not as a limitation on who they can serve. According to California Business and Professions Code (BPC) Section 4980.02, LMFTs may diagnose and treat individuals, couples, groups, or families.

Can LMFTs diagnose mental illness?

Yes. LMFTs are legally authorized to assess, diagnose, and treat mental disorders using the DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders), just like other licensed mental health providers. This is explicitly provided under BPC 4980.02.

Can LMFTs conduct psychological testing?

Yes, with limits. LMFTs may administer and interpret psychological tests within the context of an ongoing therapeutic relationship, provided they are trained and competent to do so. This was clarified in California Attorney General Opinion No. 83-810 (Van de Kamp, 1984), which states that MFTs may construct, administer, and interpret psychological tests as long as it occurs within a psychotherapeutic context and consistent with their training.

However, LMFTs may not conduct standalone psychological evaluations (e.g., neuropsychological assessments or forensic testing), which fall under the scope of licensed clinical psychologists (see BPC 2903).

What degree and training do LMFTs have?

LMFTs must have at least a master’s degree in psychology or related field. This generally involves at least two years of education and training after the bachelor’s degree, for a total of about six or more years of higher education.

They must also complete at least 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience before becoming fully licensed.

How do LMFTs compare to LPCCs?

Both LMFTs and LPCCs are master’s-level clinicians licensed by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS). They can diagnose and treat mental disorders in individuals, couples, families, and groups. LMFTs are trained with a systemic and relational focus, while LPCCs are trained with a focus on personal and career development.

How do LMFTs compare to LCSWs?

LMFTs and LCSWs are both master’s level clinicians licensed by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS), and both provide psychotherapy and may diagnose and treat individuals, couples, and families. The key difference is focus: LCSWs are trained in social work, with an emphasis on case management, community systems, and resource coordination (BPC 4996.9). LMFTs focus more on relationships, communication, and family systems.

How do LMFTs compare to psychologists?

Psychologists hold doctoral degrees, which means they are required to have 2-3 more years of education and training than LMFTs, who must have at least a master’s degree (although some LMFTs have doctorates). Psychologists are licensed by the California Board of Psychology, while LMFTs are licensed by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. Both provide psychotherapy, but psychologists have the broadest scope of conducting psychological and neuropsychological assessments (BPC 2903). While LMFTs may use certain assessments in treatment, they may not provide testing services independently or for diagnostic purposes outside a therapy context.

How do LMFTs compare to psychiatrists?

Psychiatrists are medical doctors (MDs or DOs) who specialize in mental health. They are licensed and regulated by the California Medical Board. They can diagnose mental disorders, prescribe medications, and offer medical treatment for psychiatric conditions. LMFTs do not prescribe medication or offer medical services. However, LMFTs often work closely with psychiatrists as part of a client’s care team, providing therapy while the psychiatrist manages medications. In many cases, both roles are essential and complementary.

Further Resources

Guide to Laws About Mental Health Professionals in California

What are the Legal and Ethical Requirements for Therapists in California?

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