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Assistant Mft Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Assistant Mft information

See California salary details

$10

$21

$37

How much do assistant mft jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant mft in California is $21.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $23.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Assistant Mft vs Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist?

AspectAssistant MftLicensed Marriage and Family Therapist
CredentialsRequires a master's degree and supervised experienceRequires a master's degree, supervised experience, and licensure
Work EnvironmentSupports licensed therapists in clinics, hospitals, or private practicesProvides independent therapy services, often in private practice or clinics
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in mental health facilities and clinicsLicensed to independently practice and bill insurance

The main difference between an Assistant Mft and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist is licensure. Assistant Mfts support licensed therapists and are not independently licensed, while LMFTs can provide independent therapy services. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but licensure grants full practice rights.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant marriage and family therapist?

To thrive as an Assistant MFT, you need a solid understanding of counseling theories, family systems, and mental health assessment, typically supported by a relevant graduate degree and state intern registration. Familiarity with case management software, electronic health record systems, and clinical documentation standards is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and active listening set outstanding Assistant MFTs apart. These competencies are crucial for building client trust, delivering effective therapy, and ensuring ethical, compliant practice.

What is an assistant MFT?

An Assistant MFT, or Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, is a mental health professional who has completed a graduate degree in marriage and family therapy and is working under supervision to gain the experience required for full licensure. Assistant MFTs provide counseling services to individuals, couples, and families, focusing on relationship dynamics and mental health concerns. They work in a variety of settings, such as private practices, clinics, or community agencies, and are supervised by a licensed therapist. This role is often a stepping stone toward becoming a fully licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT).

What are some common challenges faced by assistant marriage and family therapists during their early career, and how can they navigate them?

Assistant MFTs often face challenges such as managing a diverse caseload, balancing supervision requirements with direct client work, and building therapeutic rapport with couples or families experiencing conflict. Navigating these challenges typically involves strong organization skills, seeking regular feedback from licensed supervisors, and participating in peer consultation groups. Early-career MFTs can also benefit from ongoing professional development and self-care practices to maintain resilience and effectiveness in their therapeutic role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Mft jobs in California? The most popular types of Mft jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Assistant Mft jobs? Cities in California with the most Assistant Mft job openings:
Assistant Mft jobs near you

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT)

AvaMed Workforce

Delano, CA • On-site

$80/hr

Full-time, Contractor

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

AvaMed Workforce is a Healthcare Staffing Agency that staffs all of California State Correctional Facilities. At the moment we are in URGENT need of a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) to take on a Full-Time assignment at the correctional facility located in Delano, CA.
Position Details:
40 Hours per week 
Location: Delano, CA
Schedule: Monday-Thursday 7:00am-5:00pm or Tuesday-Friday 7:00am-5:00pm 
(Orientation 2 weeks, must be flexible)
Rate: $80/hr ($3,200/week) 
Status: 1099/Independent Contractor
Job Description:
The temporary/relief LMFT shall provide services as permitted within the scope of practice for a LMFT in accordance with institution policies and procedures. Under the direction/supervision of the Supervising Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist or the Psychiatric Social Worker or designee, LMFT’s duties/responsibilities shall include, but are not limited to the following:

a. Conduct assessments, and provides clinical treatment interventions such as brief counseling, group therapy, and individual counseling.

b. Consults and collaborates with other disciplines for the care and treatment of patients and participates in interdisciplinary care planning and coordination.

c. Performs assessments that assist with and facilitates transitional care planning and coordination that links patients with community resources and services as they release from facility.

d. Conducts assessments to determine appropriate level of intervention, education, and counseling services within the context of marriage, couples and family systems as well as individual biopsychosocial dimensions with specific solution-focused, attainable therapeutic goals.

e. Conducts Cognitive Behavior Therapy for individuals with Substance Use Disorders (SUD), either in 1:1 and/or group settings to modify intrapersonal and interpersonal behaviors.

f. Conducts assessments for patients preparing for release from facility.

g. Provides education and counseling services to individuals that encourage the development of life skills and strategies for coping and confronting issues related to SUD.

h. Develops and/or contributes to treatment and care plans.

i. Reviews patient files, gathers data, and completes reports and other required documentation.

j. Makes recommendations to the care teams and effectively communicates and collaborates with the patient and all disciplines involved in the care of the patients.

k. Documents and evaluates patients’ progress with programming and facilitates discharges and transfers in coordination with other treatment and rehabilitative programs.

l. Works with institutional rehabilitative partners and custody staff to assess patient’s participation and progress in services.

m. Attends all case conferences, trainings, meetings and committees as directed, and performs other duties as required.


If you are interested, please submit a copy of your resume and we will reach out to you ASAP.