Often marriage and family therapists go to an office where they see clients during the day, but others may provide services at other locations in the community. The work environment of marriage and family therapists is typically in a community health organization, public or private practice or day treatment programs. In addition, marriage and family therapists may refer clients to psychiatric resources, teach courses in subjects like interpersonal relationships and perform research. Instead, marriage and family therapists must understand and observe their clients’ interactions and symptoms as they occur within their environment. Because this type of therapy focuses less on a particular identified or internal psychological conflict, it differs from traditional therapy. Marriage and family therapists work with a variety of clients including couples, families and groups. Using this process they can help to modify client’s behaviors and perceptions, help them prevent crises on the individual and family level and improve communication and understanding among families and couples.

Marriage and family therapists treat and help clients work through emotional and mental problems using family systems theory, techniques and principles. Despite their specialty marriage and family therapists must be able to recognize a variety of issues to provide the most appropriate support and counseling. They may face the challenge of clients who have a variety of issues including mental health disorders, trauma, addiction and disability. Marriage and family therapists provide a range of support and counseling services in diverse community settings.

Marriage and family therapist salary