Becoming a therapist in Minnesota takes years of focused education, training, and supervision. Here’s a clear overview of what it looks like for two common licenses: Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW).
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)
- Education
- Complete a master’s or doctoral degree in Marriage and Family Therapy (or a closely related field) from a program that meets Minnesota Board standards.
- Coursework includes family systems, couples counseling, ethics, assessment, and a 1 year supervised practicum.
- Post-graduate supervision
- Work as a pre-licensed therapist (often called an “LAMFT associate” or similar).
- Complete at least 4,000 hours of supervised clinical experience, including 1,000 hours of direct client contact, with a focus on couples and families.
- Complete 200 hours of supervision from a board-approved LMFT supervisor.
- Exams and licensure
- Pass the national MFT exam.
- Apply to the Minnesota Board of Marriage and Family Therapy for full LMFT licensure and complete 40 hours ongoing continuing education every 2 years.
Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)
- Education
- Earn a Master of Social Work (MSW) from a CSWE-accredited program.
- Training includes mental health, human behavior, policy, research, and clinical practice.
- Post-graduate supervision
- Work as a Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW).
- Complete 4,000 hours of supervised clinical practice, including at least 1,800 clinical hours (assessment, diagnosis, treatment) under an approved supervisor.
- Exams and licensure
- Pass the ASWB Clinical Exam.
- Apply to the Minnesota Board of Social Work for LICSW status and complete ongoing continuing education.
When you see a therapist at The Power of Change, rest assure you are meeting with someone who has completed a graduate degree, thousands of supervised clinical hours, rigorous exams, and ongoing training to support your mental health and relationships. Andrea Hidlebaugh and Vanessa Schulte are fully licensed LICSW’s and David Comparetto is a fully Licensed LMFT.
