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Lmft Associate Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Legacy Health

Clinical Therapist OUS

Portland, OR · On-site

$43.30/hr

... Associate (PCA) or Marriage and Family Therapist Associate (MFTA) license for a Clinical Therapist Associate position or candidates with their Licensed Clinical Social Worker(LCSW), Licensed ...

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Lmft Associate information

What is an LMFT Associate?

An LMFT Associate is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate, which is an entry-level professional who has completed the required education in marriage and family therapy but is working under supervision to gain the clinical experience needed for full licensure. LMFT Associates provide therapy to individuals, couples, and families, often focusing on relationship issues, communication, and mental health. They must work under the supervision of a fully licensed LMFT and follow specific guidelines set by state licensing boards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an LMFT Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as an LMFT Associate, you need a solid understanding of family systems theory, counseling techniques, and a master's degree in marriage and family therapy or a related field, along with state licensure as an associate. Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems, diagnostic tools like the DSM-5, and supervision protocols is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, cultural competence, and the ability to build trust with clients distinguish outstanding professionals in this role. These competencies ensure effective client care, ethical practice, and the ability to navigate complex family dynamics during the early stages of your career.

What kind of supervision and mentorship can an LMFT Associate expect during their early career?

As an LMFT Associate, you will be required to work under the supervision of a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) or another approved clinical supervisor. Supervision typically involves regular meetings to discuss client cases, receive feedback, and ensure adherence to ethical standards. This close mentorship is designed to support your professional development, help you navigate complex clinical situations, and prepare you for independent practice. Supervisors also guide associates in accumulating the clinical hours needed for full licensure, making this relationship a key part of your early career growth.

What is the difference between Lmft Associate vs Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist?

AspectLmft AssociateLicensed Marriage and Family Therapist
CredentialsRequires completion of master's degree and supervised hours; not yet licensedRequires master's degree, supervised hours, and passing licensing exam
Work EnvironmentOften works under supervision in clinics, mental health centers, or private practiceWorks independently or with supervision, in similar settings
Usage in IndustryEntry-level or pre-licensure roleFully licensed professional

The main difference between an Lmft Associate and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist is licensure status. An Lmft Associate is in the process of completing required supervised hours and has not yet obtained full licensure. Once licensed, they become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, able to practice independently and provide a wider range of services.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lmft jobs in Portland, OR? The most popular types of Lmft jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Lmft Associate jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Lmft Associate job openings:
Lmft Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lmft Associate job openings in Portland, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Clinical Therapist Associate / Clinical Therapist

Legacy Health

Portland, OR • On-site

$43.30 - $61.92/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Overview

We continue our commitment to raise the bar on the quality of behavioral health care provided to those in our community who suffer from mental illness. Finding the best people to join our team is crucial in meeting our goals. If you thrive in a team environment and you want to contribute to the safe and efficient flow of patients, join us as we build an integrated, qualified team dedicated to behavioral health.

Unity Center for Behavioral Health is a 24-hour behavioral and mental health services center located in the greater Portland metropolitan area. We provide immediate psychiatric care and a path to stabilization and recovery for individuals experiencing a mental health crisis. Unity Center offers mental health treatment to adults and adolescents aged 9 to 17. We also have the only emergency department specifically for behavioral health emergencies in Oregon. The Psychiatric Emergency Services (PES) serves adults 18 and older.  We believe in a trauma informed approach to assessment and treatment. For more information, please visit our website: www.unityhealthcenter.org

Responsibilities

We will consider candidates with their Clinical Social Work Associate, Professional Counselor Associate (PCA) or Marriage and Family Therapist Associate (MFTA) license for a Clinical Therapist Associate position or candidates with their Licensed Clinical Social Worker(LCSW), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) or a state or national certification or license in an expressive arts therapy license for a Clinical Therapist position.

Clinical Therapist Associate

Under the supervision of the Manager of Counseling and Therapy, the Clinical Therapist Lead(s), and Clinical Therapist the Clinical Therapist Associate provides therapeutic treatment interventions to adult and adolescent behavioral health patients using evidence-based practices. Interventions are done through group and individual treatment. Works both independently and collaboratively as part of an interdisciplinary team.

Clinical Therapist

Provides therapeutic treatment interventions to adult and adolescent behavioral health patients using evidence-based practices. Interventions are done through group and individual treatment. Works both independently and collaboratively as part of an interdisciplinary team.

Key services include (but are not limited to) comprehensive evaluation of psychological presentation, mental/behavioral health status, legal and safety considerations, substance use or addiction, chronic illnesses, and crisis management.

Throughout the care continuum, therapists will utilize a strengths-based approach with the aim to enhance the capacity of people to address their own needs.

Qualifications

Education:

Master's degree in a behavioral health field required.

 

Experience:

Preferred: 2 year's relevant experience.

Skills:

  • Broad knowledge of the principles of behavioral health evidence-based treatments and the ability to apply them with individuals, families and/or groups integrating knowledge of normal development and the aging process, changes related to illness, and the needs of patients with acute and chronic illnesses with attention to cultural and literacy implications.
  • Knowledge of medical, mental health and substance use diagnoses, disabilities, and treatment procedures. This includes acute, chronic, and traumatic illnesses/injuries; common medications and their effects/side effects; and medical terminology
  • Strong organizational, communication and collaboration skills in a multi-disciplinary treatment setting.
  • Understanding and ability to apply principles of diversity/equity/inclusion and culturally responsive practice with populations who have experience historical marginalization.
  • Demonstrates ability to create group and individual treatment interventions using evidence-based practices.
  • Ability to navigate electronic medical records and effectively utilize basic computer programs.
  • Knowledge of legal, regulatory and compliance requirements and an ability to be a resource to all team members regarding such issues and knowledge of current health care environment.
Licensure
  • Clinical Therapist Associate requirements:
    • Clinical Social Work Associate (CSWA), Professional Counselor Associate (PCA) or Marriage and Family Therapist Associate (MFTA) is required at the date of hire.
    • Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) in addition is preferred.
  • Clinical Therapist requirements:
    • Licensed Clinical Social Work (LCSW), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), or a state or national certification or license in an expressive arts therapy is required at the date of hire.
    • Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) in addition is preferred.
Pay RangeUSD $43.30 - USD $61.92 /Hr.Our Commitment to Health and Equal Opportunity

Our Legacy is good for health for Our People, Our Patients, Our Communities, Our World. Above all, we will do the right thing.

If you are passionate about our mission and believe you can contribute to our team, we encourage you to apply-even if you don't meet every qualification listed. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can grow and succeed.

Legacy Health is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits unlawful discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion or creed, citizenship status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

To learn more about our employee benefits click here: www.legacyhealth.org/For-Health-Professionals/careers/benefiting-you

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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