Master’s Degrees
Please watch BOTH videos below.
This video includes:
- general license information
- an explanation of types of therapy licenses (LPC, LCSW, and LMFT) and their affiliated master’s programs
- a demonstration of a program search for accredited programs using the following directories: CACREP, MPCAC, CSWE, and COAMFTE
- an emphasis on the importance of using resources to gain a comprehensive understanding of a program’s curriculum, structure, and focus
This video includes:
- Responses to the following questions:
- Can I attend any psychology mater’s program that I find? What if it is not accredited?
- Should I pursue a master’s degree or a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD)?
- Can I get a master’s degree first to be “better prepared” for a clinical PhD?
🔍 Comparing Master’s Degree Paths
The chart below offers a generalized comparison of three common master’s-level pathways: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC), Social Work (MSW), and Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT). While this overview highlights broad emphasis differences, it’s important to note that each program—and even each institution—may vary in focus, coursework, and clinical philosophy. Students are encouraged to explore individual programs to assess alignment with their values, goals, and preferred client populations.
⚡️Quick Takeaways:
- Clinical Mental Health Counseling is ideal for students focused on individual therapy and mental health diagnostics.
- Social Work offers the broadest scope, blending clinical work with advocacy and systems-level impact.
- Marriage and Family Therapy is best suited for those drawn to relational dynamics and systemic interventions.
Master’s Degree: |
Clinical Mental Health Counseling |
Social Work |
Marriage & Family Therapy |
| Core Focus | Individual mental health and wellness | Mental health and wellness, client advocacy, social justice, and systems-level change | Relational and systemic dynamics within families and couples |
| Typical Theoretical Orientation | Cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, integrative | Strengths-based, ecological systems, trauma-informed | Systems theory, attachment, psychodynamic, experiential |
| Client Scope | Individuals, some couples/groups | Individuals, families, communities, policy | Couples, families, individuals in relational context |
| Training Emphasis | Diagnosis, treatment planning, psychotherapy | Case management, advocacy, clinical intervention, community resources | Relational assessment, family systems, couple therapy |
| Licensure Path | LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) or equivalent | LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) | LMFT (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist) |
| Fieldwork/Internship | Clinical practicum in mental health settings | Field placements in diverse settings (clinical, policy, school, hospital) | Clinical practicum focused on relational therapy |
| Career Settings | Private practice, clinics, hospitals, schools | Private practice, hospitals, clinics, schools, social service agencies, policy orgs | Private practice, family service agencies, clinics |
| Social Justice Emphasis | Present but less central | Strong emphasis on equity, advocacy, and systemic change | Present, often through relational and cultural lenses |
| Flexibility of Roles | Primarily clinical | Broad—clinical, policy, advocacy, administration | Primarily clinical with relational specialization |