Application Fee
See board websiteVerified by WA Board of Healthcare
Marriage and Family Therapist Licensing in Washington
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for marriage and family therapist in Washington, including See board website and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Marriage and Family Therapist in Washington
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See board website
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health
- Current Filing Fee
See board website
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$59,660 median (6% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#31 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Washington eligibility requirements for Marriage and Family Therapist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education: Degree required.
- 3. Pass the required examination: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit your application to the Department of Health.
Salary Insights in Washington
With a median salary of 59,660, Marriage and Family Therapists in Washington earn 6% below the national median of 63780. Washington ranks #31 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,837Median annual salary
$59,660Hourly estimate
$28.686% below national median
Difference: -$4,120
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationMarriage and Family Therapist Salary Ranking
#31 of 50 statesfor Marriage and Family Therapist median salary
| 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 regionLicense 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | 50 | 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. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Health
101 Israel Rd SE, Tumwater, WA, 98501
Phone: 3602364700
Related Careers in Washington
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $105,120 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $93,730 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $68,650 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $57,040 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Marriage and Family Therapist in Washington?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Marriage and Family Therapists in Washington?
Washington 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 Washington?
The board typically expects Degree required for Marriage and Family Therapist licensure in Washington.
What is the typical Marriage and Family Therapist salary in Washington?
The median annual salary for Marriage and Family Therapists in Washington is 59,660. Salaries range from 52710 (10th percentile) to 100250 (90th percentile).
How does the Marriage and Family Therapist salary in Washington compare to the national average?
Marriage and Family Therapists in Washington earn 6% below the national median of 63780, with a state median of 59,660.
Can I transfer my Marriage and Family Therapist license to Washington 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.
Who is the licensing agency for Marriage and Family Therapists in Washington?
The licensing agency is Department of Health. Review agency details at http://www.doh.wa.gov/.