Application Fee
See agencyVerified 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 agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Marriage and Family Therapist in Washington
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 4
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 5
Individuals must have a master's or doctoral degree in marriage and family therapy from an approved school.
- 6
Individuals must have a minimum of 2 calendar years of full-time marriage and family therapy, 1,000 hours of which must be direct client contact.
- 7
Individuals must pass the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards and pay the required fee.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- 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 (7)
- 1. Meet Washington 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: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.).
- 6. Submit the application to Department of Health and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Washington
With a median salary of $59,660, Marriage and Family Therapists in Washington earn 6% below the national median of $63,780. Washington ranks #31 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
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. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Department of Health
101 Israel Rd SE, Tumwater, WA, 98501
Phone: 3602364700
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Marriage and Family Therapist in Washington?
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 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 $52,710 (10th percentile) to $100,250 (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 $63,780, 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. Verify directly with the agency.
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/.
How often do you renew a Marriage and Family Therapist license in Washington?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.