2026 data West Virginia board official source

West Virginia Marriage and Family Therapist License Requirements

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

Specializes in treating relationship and family issues.

What the West Virginia data shows for Marriage and Family Therapists

West Virginia sets the entry bar for marriage and family therapists at 2,784 training hours and a passing score on MFT National Examination, with 2 years of supervised work experience expected. A background check is a standard part of the process, and applicants must be 18 or older. The credential is administered under West Virginia's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Masters or Doctoral Degree".

Budget $139 to get started, plus $125 at each renewal on a 2-year cycle. Maintaining the license requires 36 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: MFT Licensure Compact: adoption underway.

Licensing Requirements in West Virginia

Education / Training Hours
Masters or Doctoral Degree
2,784 hours
Exam Requirement
MFT National Examination
Required
Initial License Fee
$139
Renewal Fee
$125
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
36 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Work Experience Required
2 years
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with West Virginia licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Marriage and Family Therapist in West Virginia?
In West Virginia, the license path calls for 2784 education/training hours, a passing score on MFT National Examination, and a $139 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Marriage and Family Therapist in West Virginia?
Certification as a marriage and family therapist in West Virginia means clearing the state's checklist: 2784 hours of education plus 2 years of work experience, and a passing exam score. The West Virginia licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Marriage and Family Therapist license to West Virginia from another state?
For marriage and family therapists, the reciprocity landscape looks like this: MFT Licensure Compact: adoption underway. Many professions are also covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability between states. Contact the West Virginia licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does West Virginia require a background check for Marriage and Family Therapist licensing?
West Virginia does require a background check before issuing a marriage and family therapist license. What counts as disqualifying, and how it's reviewed, is up to the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Marriage and Family Therapist in West Virginia?
West Virginia ties continued marriage and family therapist licensure to 36 continuing-education hours, due every 2 years, alongside a $125 renewal fee.

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites