So You Want to Be a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Oklahoma: A Not-So-Serious Guide (But Still Useful, We Promise)
Ah, the wonderful world of navigating licensure! It can feel like trying to decipher ancient hieroglyphics at times, but fear not, my fellow therapist-in-training! This guide will be your hilarious (and informative) compass on the path to becoming a Licensed Marital and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the great state of Oklahoma.
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| How To Get Mft License In Oklahoma |
Step 1: Book Smarts with a Side of Family Drama (Because That's What You'll Be Dealing With Anyway)
First things first, you'll need a master's degree in marriage and family therapy (MFT) or a related field. Think counseling, psychology, or another mental health discipline. If your degree isn't in MFT specifically, don't worry! You can still qualify as long as you've taken enough courses focused on the fascinating world of family dynamics (because let's be honest, some families are like watching a reality show on fast forward).
Here's the gist:
- Master's degree in MFT or a related field (think counseling, psychology, etc.)
- Content-equivalent coursework if your degree isn't in MFT specifically (think courses on family systems, assessment, and intervention methods – basically, how to untangle the family knot)
Step 2: Supervised Experience - Because Nobody Likes Flying Solo (Especially When Dealing With Emotional Baggage)
Now comes the fun part (well, maybe not entirely fun, but definitely an important part): supervised experience. Buckle up for two years of working under the watchful eye of a licensed LMFT. Here's where you'll put your book smarts into action and gain valuable real-world experience helping couples navigate communication meltdowns and families rewrite their dysfunctional scripts.
Tip: Check back if you skimmed too fast.
Here's the breakdown:
- Two years of supervised experience under a licensed LMFT
- Minimum 1,000 hours of direct client contact (because therapy isn't just about making insightful observations from afar)
- Supervision: at least 6.25 hours for every 42 hours of client contact (think of it as quality control for your therapy skills)
Step 3: Exam Time - Show Off Your Knowledge (and Maybe a Little Anxiety)
Once you've completed your supervised experience, it's time to dust off those test-taking skills and conquer the LMFT exam approved by the Oklahoma Board. This is your chance to prove you've absorbed all that knowledge about family systems and can translate it into real-world therapeutic interventions.
Deep breaths and good luck!
Tip: Read slowly to catch the finer details.
Step 4: Welcome to the Wonderful World of LMFT-dom (It Has a Better Ring Than It Sounds)
Congratulations! You've officially jumped through all the hoops and are now a licensed LMFT in Oklahoma. Now you get to help families navigate their complexities, mend relationships, and create a little more peace in the world (or at least in your clients' living rooms).
You've earned it!
FAQs for the Aspiring LMFT
How to find a supervisor?
QuickTip: Reading twice makes retention stronger.
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Contact the Oklahoma State Board of Behavioral Health Licensure for a list of approved supervisors in your area.
How much does licensure cost?
There are fees associated with the application process, exams, and background checks. Contact the Board for specific details.
Tip: Don’t overthink — just keep reading.
How long does it take to get licensed?
It typically takes 2-3 years to complete the education, supervision, and exam requirements.
Can I get licensed in Oklahoma if I'm already licensed in another state?
Maybe! Oklahoma participates in the Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact (PSY-PEC), which allows for expedited licensure for qualified therapists from other compact states.
How do I stay up-to-date on licensure requirements?
Contact the Oklahoma State Board of Behavioral Health Licensure for the latest information on continuing education requirements and license renewal.
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