Graduate Catalog 2010-2012 - Richmont Graduate University

MASTER OF ARTS IN
MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPY
The MAMFT is designed to provide specialized training for students who desire to work specifically with couples and families, as well as
individuals in the context of the family. This degree fulfills the academic requirements in most states for licensure in marriage and family
therapy (LMFT), licensure as a professional counselor (LPC), and clinical membership in the American Association for Marriage and
Family Therapy (AAMFT). MAMFT students are strongly encouraged to become student members of AAMFT upon acceptance to
Richmont.
Using both a systems theory perspective and a Christian theology integrationist perspective, students develop the knowledge and skills to
practice marriage and family therapy. Marriage and family therapists serve the church, community and society at large in a variety of
roles such as education, administration, marriage and family therapist, minister of family life and counseling, parent trainer, youth minister,
pastor or teacher, business leader, public relations, and many varied settings in which counseling is needed. Marriage and family
therapists work with a varied population presenting problems such as family crisis, conduct disorder, eating disorders, marital distress,
sexual issues, bereavement, family trauma, various forms of addictions, anxiety and depression, financial and occupational issues, and
spiritual concerns.
The demand for well trained, competent MFTs is expected to increase with the mounting pressures facing couples and families. The
distinguished Richmont faculty help students gain competence in Christian theology, counseling psychology, and formation to address
the whole person and to move the hurting family system toward healthy functioning.
The MAMFT is provided through a traditional day program over two, three or four years.
Beyond the theological and integration training offered in all Richmont graduate degrees, the MAMFT includes significant training in
professional marriage and family therapy.
The MAMFT may also be combined with the other certificates. Certificates strengthen the student’s abilities to work with specific client
populations. The following certificates within the MAMFT are offered. The certificate will be documented on the graduate’s diploma.
• Addictions Counseling
• Child and Adolescent Counseling
• Christian Sex Therapy
• Spirituality and Counseling
• Trauma Counseling
Students may pursue multiple certificates, but no two certificates may hold more than one course in common. For instance, students
who seek the certificate in addictions and Christian sex therapy must take a total of seven courses in their certificates, although these two
certificates hold two courses in common.
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