Understanding the Differences Between LPCC vs MFT Fields
If you’re passionate about helping others, a career as a therapist or counselor is a great choice. But what certification do you need? Which degree aligns with your goals?
Licensed professional clinical counselors (LPCC) treat mental health and substance abuse issues. Marriage and family therapists (MFT) focus on social and relationship-based problems.
Understanding the differences between LPCC and MFT, including education requirements, job opportunities, and salaries, can help you make the best decision for your future.
An Introduction to LPCCs
Who They Treat: LPCCs help individuals, families, and groups with a wide range of mental health issues.
Where They Work: You can find LPCCs working in hospitals, health centers, private practices, and community organizations.
Education Requirements: To become an LPCC, you need a master’s degree. You also need to complete at least 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience and pass the National Counselor Examination.
LPCC Salary: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, LPCCs earn a median salary of $53,710.
Job Outlook: Employment of substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors is projected to grow 18 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.
An Introduction to MFTs
Who They Treat: Marriage and family therapists (MFTs) focus on helping families and individuals with social and relationship-based problems. They address issues like depression, parent-child conflicts, self-esteem problems, and the family impacts of substance abuse.
Where They Work: MFTs work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, private practices, and community organizations.
Education Requirements: To become an MFT, you need to complete a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy. Additionally, you must fulfill the supervised clinical experience hours and pass the relevant licensure examination, both of which vary by state.
MFT Salary: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, MFTs earn a median annual wage of $58,510.
Job Outlook: Employment for marriage and family therapists is projected to grow 15 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.
LPCC vs. MFT: Choosing the Right Path for Your Career
LPCCs and MFTs have many similarities. They share work settings, certification requirements, and the types of treatment they provide. So, how do you decide which field is right for you?
LPCCs handle a broader range of mental health issues. They focus on individual and developmental challenges that hinder growth and cause mental health problems. This broad focus allows LPCCs to offer diverse services. For example, an LPCC might specialize in career counseling instead of just individual therapy. The specific focus depends on the counselor’s interests.
MFTs, on the other hand, excel in addressing marriage and family relationships. They help clients identify relationship problems, both past and present, and provide effective strategies for change. MFTs concentrate on improving interpersonal skills, communication, and group dynamics. If you have a passion for helping people navigate their relationships and strengthen family bonds, becoming an MFT might be the perfect choice for you.
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