If you’re planning on getting licensed as a marriage and family therapist in California, the new BBS vote may impact you. As many of you may know, California is the only state that requires the MFT clinical exam to become licensed. All other 49 states recognize the Association of Marital and Family Therapists Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB) national exam for licensure.
However, in May 2024, the profession of marriage and family therapists reached a major milestone. The BBS voted to move toward transitioning from the current clinical exam to the AMFTRB national exam as a licensing requirement in California. This will ensure greater license portability and possible telehealth expansion opportunities for CA MFTs. BBS staff will begin drafting legislative and/or regulatory changes, as well as addressing issues like ensuring adequate access to testing. At present, the National exam is only offered once per month.
A transition of this magnitude will likely take 3+ years, at best, to go into effect, so if you’re a CA AMFT planning on getting licensed before 2027, you will likely still take the CA MFT clinical exam as a mandatory requirement. If you have any questions regarding this change or what study program you may need at this time, the TDC staff is always available HERE. As usual, we will always update you of upcoming changes ahead of time. And, don’t forget to check out the 2024 clinical exam changes going into effect on September 1, 2024!
Study Prep for the CA MFT Clinical Exam
If you’re ready to begin preparing for the CA MFT Clinical Exam, we’ve got you covered with a comprehensive, easy-to-use program that will help you ace the test. And the best part? You can reach out to your personal exam coach any time with questions, study tips, and one-on-one coaching. TDC coaches will always respond within two business days, but often much sooner!