Application Fee
See agencyMarriage and Family Therapist Licensing in Montana
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for marriage and family therapist in Montana, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Marriage and Family Therapist in Montana
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.
- 4
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Board of Behavioral Health
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$37,150 median (42% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#49 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Montana eligibility requirements for Marriage and Family Therapist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Work experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: Background check required; Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.).
- 6. Submit the application to Board of Behavioral Health and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Montana
With a median salary of $37,150, Marriage and Family Therapists in Montana earn 42% below the national median of $63,780. Montana ranks #49 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,173Median annual salary
$37,150Hourly estimate
$17.86Difference: -$26,630
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationMarriage and Family Therapist Salary Ranking
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Hawaii | $135,870 |
| #2 | New Jersey | $89,030 |
| #3 | Utah | $81,170 |
| #4 | Virginia | $80,670 |
| #5 | Oregon | $79,890 |
Nearby States Comparison
Marriage and Family Therapist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | $37,150 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| North Dakota | $58,180 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| South Dakota | $51,190 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wyoming | $63,780 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 1-3 months |
| Idaho | $63,780 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 12 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Dakota | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wyoming | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Idaho | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Board of Behavioral Health
301 South Park, 4th Floor, Helena, MT, 59620
Phone: N/A
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Marriage and Family Therapist in Montana?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Marriage and Family Therapists in Montana?
Montana lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Marriage and Family Therapists.
What education do you need to become a Marriage and Family Therapist in Montana?
The board typically expects Degree required for Marriage and Family Therapist licensure in Montana.
What is the typical Marriage and Family Therapist salary in Montana?
The median annual salary for Marriage and Family Therapists in Montana is $37,150. Salaries range from $32,290 (10th percentile) to $72,900 (90th percentile).
How does the Marriage and Family Therapist salary in Montana compare to the national average?
Marriage and Family Therapists in Montana earn 42% below the national median of $63,780, with a state median of $37,150.
Can I transfer my Marriage and Family Therapist license to Montana from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Marriage and Family Therapists in Montana?
The licensing agency is Board of Behavioral Health. Review agency details at https://boards.bsd.dli.mt.gov/behavioral-health/license-information/licensed-marriage-and-family-therapist.
How often do you renew a Marriage and Family Therapist license in Montana?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.