How much does a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist make?
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs) find rewarding work in helping individuals, couples, and families navigate through their issues. The average yearly salary for LMFTs stands at $94,079, offering a stable financial foundation. This salary reflects the value society places on their expertise and the important work they do.
The salary for LMFTs can vary based on experience, location, and the type of employer. Those just starting might earn around $45,000 per year. As they gain experience, this figure can rise significantly. For instance, a therapist with 10 to 15 years of experience might earn between $126,818 and $140,455 annually. High earners, working in specialized or metropolitan areas, can reach up to $195,000 per year. This range highlights the potential for growth and advancement in this career.
What are the highest paying cities for a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist?

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Fayetteville, AR
Average Salary: $188,636
In Fayetteville, AR, therapists can find fulfilling work in a welcoming community. Various clinics and private practices offer opportunities to help families. Health organizations like Northwest Arkansas Counseling Center provide promising careers.
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Little Rock, AR
Average Salary: $179,546
Little Rock, AR offers a diverse range of opportunities for therapists. The city’s growing population increases the need for mental health services. Companies like Baptist Health and Arkansas Children’s are hiring.
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Rochester, MN
Average Salary: $171,107
Rochester, MN is known for its quality healthcare services. Therapists here enjoy working with top-notch facilities like Mayo Clinic. The supportive community environment enhances job satisfaction.
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Salem, OR
Average Salary: $165,284
In Salem, OR, therapists benefit from a vibrant community. The city’s focus on mental health provides many job openings. Organizations such as Willamette Family and The Child and Family Center offer excellent career paths.
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Topeka, KS
Average Salary: $163,250
Topeka, KS offers a stable environment for therapists. The city’s commitment to mental health supports various clinics. Companies like Heartland Family Service are leaders in providing mental health care.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $163,124
Boston, MA provides diverse opportunities for therapists. The city’s rich cultural scene enhances job satisfaction. Well-known institutions like Massachusetts General Hospital are always hiring skilled professionals.
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Tulsa, OK
Average Salary: $160,954
Tulsa, OK has a growing demand for mental health services. Therapists here can find work in numerous private practices and clinics. Organizations such as Saint Francis Health System are expanding their teams.
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Provo, UT
Average Salary: $160,700
Provo, UT offers a supportive community for therapists. The city’s strong family values create a high need for family counseling. Local companies like Intermountain Healthcare are active in hiring.
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Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $160,651
Bakersfield, CA provides many opportunities for therapists to make a difference. The city’s expanding population increases demand for mental health services. Local clinics and organizations are actively hiring.
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Worcester, MA
Average Salary: $159,552
Worcester, MA has a growing need for mental health professionals. The city’s diverse community benefits from various counseling services. Companies such as UMass Memorial Health are expanding their mental health services.
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What are the best companies a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist can work for?

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Headway
Average Salary: $238,544
Headway offers Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist jobs with competitive pay. They focus on providing high-quality care and operate across various locations, including major cities in the United States.
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Daybreak Health
Average Salary: $190,000
Daybreak Health pays well for its Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists. They offer telehealth services and operate in multiple states, providing flexible working options.
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Brightside Health
Average Salary: $183,113
Brightside Health provides excellent salaries for its Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists. They deliver mental health services online and work with clients nationwide.
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Grow Therapy
Average Salary: $162,122
Grow Therapy offers attractive compensation for Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists. They have a strong online presence and serve clients in many states across the country.
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Legacy Personnel, Inc.
Average Salary: $146,225
Legacy Personnel, Inc. provides good salaries for Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists. They focus on matching therapists with clients in their network of locations.
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NEW U THERAPY CENTER & FAMILY SERVICES
Average Salary: $140,000
NEW U THERAPY CENTER & FAMILY SERVICES offers competitive pay for Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists. They offer a range of services and operate in select regions.
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Alliant Personnel Resources LLC
Average Salary: $139,574
Alliant Personnel Resources LLC provides solid salaries for Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists. They have a good reputation and offer positions in various locations.
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Amergis Healthcare Staffing
Average Salary: $124,596
Amergis Healthcare Staffing offers competitive pay for Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists. They provide staffing services to healthcare facilities across many states.
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County of Santa Clara Health System
Average Salary: $113,990
The County of Santa Clara Health System offers good salaries for Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists. They serve the community in Santa Clara County, California.
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Savia Community Counseling Services, LLC
Average Salary: $113,462
Savia Community Counseling Services, LLC provides fair compensation for Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists. They focus on community mental health services in various locations.
How to earn more as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist?
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists have many ways to earn more in their careers. One way to increase earnings is by gaining more experience. Experience can lead to greater confidence in therapy techniques and better client relationships. Clients often prefer therapists who have a proven track record.
Another way to earn more is by specializing in a niche area. Some therapists focus on areas like addiction, child therapy, or family systems. Specializing can allow a therapist to charge higher rates. It can also attract clients who specifically need services in that area. Continuing education and certifications can support specialization. They help therapists stay current in their field.
Consider the following factors for increasing income:
- Continuing Education: Attend workshops and courses to learn new techniques. Certifications in specialized areas can improve earning potential.
- Clientele Expansion: Build a diverse client base. This could include working with different age groups or family structures. A wider client base can lead to more referrals and steady income.
- Private Practice: Starting a private practice can lead to higher earnings. Therapists control their own schedules and can set their own rates. However, it also means managing business aspects like marketing and billing.
- Online Therapy: Offering online sessions can reach clients who prefer or need remote therapy. This can increase the number of clients and overall income.
- Networking: Connect with other professionals in the field. Networking can lead to collaboration opportunities and referrals. Being active in professional groups can boost visibility and credibility.



