Core Competencies for Marriage and Family Therapists

Marriage and family therapists work with individuals, couples, and families who seek professional help in resolving conflicts arising from various circumstances. Marriage and family counselors work in private practices, nonprofit agencies, for-profit agencies, mental health clinics, hospitals, and other settings. Each of these settings requires different approaches, and each individual, couple, and family requires different techniques; however, there is a need for a set standard of practice for certain aspects of marriage and family therapy. Core competencies for marriage and family therapy are the standards that provide this clear definition of what it means to provide marriage and family therapy and how to properly meet the needs of those seeking services from those who distinguish themselves as marriage and family therapists. This entry examines the ...