American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy

The American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) is the professional association for the field of marriage and family therapy. We represent the professional interests of more than 25,000 marriage and family therapists throughout the United States, Canada and abroad.

Founded in 1942, the AAMFT has been involved with the problems, needs and changing patterns of couples and family relationships. The association leads the way to increasing understanding, research and education in the field of marriage and family therapy, and ensuring that the public's needs are met by trained practitioners. The AAMFT provides individuals with the tools and resources they need to succeed as marriage and family therapists.

The AAMFT members meet rigorous standards for education and training and are held to the highest ethical standards of the profession. Clinical Members have met the highest standards of the profession for education and clinical experience. Associate and Student membership categories are available for therapists in training for clinical practice. Members of allied professions and other persons who are interested in marriage and family therapy are eligible to become Affiliate Members.

The AAMFT facilitates research, theory development and education. The AAMFT also develops standards for graduate education and training, clinical supervision, professional ethics and the clinical practice of marriage and family therapy.

The AAMFT hosts an annual national training conference each fall as well as a week-long series of continuing education institutes in the summer and winter. The AAMFT publishs the scholarly research journal Journal of Marital and Family Therapy, news about the field in Family Therapy Magazine, and a variety of brochures and pamphlets that inform the public about the field of marriage and family therapy. They also offer a range of professional and practice development products, including videotapes, books and brochures.

The AAMFT is a recognized accreditor in North America.