LicenseCompass

Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) License in West Virginia

Quick Answer

To become a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) in West Virginia, you need a graduate degree and must pass the NCE, CRC, or NCMHCE exam. Out-of-state licensees may apply by endorsement. LPCs may practice MFT counseling but cannot use the LMFT title.

Exam
NCE, CRC, or NCMHCE
Timeline
4-6 years (master's degree + supervised experience)

Requirements

Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) license in West Virginia

gold
Education
Degree required
Exam
Third-party exam required
Continuing Education
Continuing education required to maintain license
Veterans Benefits
A temporary license is available to military and spouses until formal license approval

Licensing Agency

COUNSELING

Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) Salary in West Virginia

Entry Level

$27,280

Median

$48,180

Experienced

$64,880

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.

How to Get Licensed

Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) in West Virginia.

  1. 1

    Complete Education Requirements

    Degree required

  2. 2

    Pass the Required Exam

    Third-party exam required — NCE, CRC, or NCMHCE

  3. 3

    Submit Your Application

    File your application with the licensing agency.

  4. 4

    Receive Your License

    Processing typically takes 4-6 years (master's degree + supervised experience).

Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) Licensing in West Virginia: What to Know

COS returned combined LPC/LMFT information. West Virginia has separate LMFT licensure. Applicants currently licensed in another state can use the Endorsement Application. LPCs trained in MFT may practice marriage and family counseling but cannot use the LMFT title. Board accepts NCE, CRC, and NCMHCE exams. Must submit completed application before exam approval.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) license in West Virginia?
The process typically takes 4-6 years (master's degree + supervised experience), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
What exam do I need for a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) license in West Virginia?
You need to pass the NCE, CRC, or NCMHCE. Third-party exam required

Considering another state?

Compare Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) requirements across states.

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Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.