Master of Arts in Psychology
Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT)
Navigate a rapidly changing world.
Gain the skills to understand human behavior, think critically, and create meaningful change.
Marriage and Family Therapy Program Overview
Prepare for a fulfilling career in mental health with a holistic, multicultural approach to therapy. UWest’s Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) program program offers the ONLY Buddhist-focused MFT curriculum in the state and the nation. Gain the clinical skills, cultural competence, and hands-on training needed to support individuals, couples, and families.
At UWest, you won’t just learn how to be a therapist—you’ll uncover who you are as one. Through small class sizes, immersive practicum experiences, and a values-driven approach grounded in mindfulness and compassion, you’ll gain more than clinical expertise. You’ll develop the confidence, clarity, and cultural sensitivity to make a real difference in people’s lives—starting with your own. Expect a deeply transformative education that prepares you not only to support others, but to grow into a grounded, ethical, and purpose-driven practitioner.
More Details
- Location: Greater Los Angeles
- Length: 2.5 to 3 years / 63 units
- Flexible Enrollment: Fall & Spring start dates
- Small Class Sizes: 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio
Program at a Glance
UWest’s MFT program ensures students graduate with real-world skills, not just classroom knowledge. Students will:
- Complete supervised clinical training in approved mental health settings
- Gain hands-on therapy experience with individuals, couples, and families
- Develop telehealth counseling skills for modern mental health care
Real-World Training & Clinical Experience
Students customize their degree by choosing a specialization, completing 12 units within their selected focus area:
-
Generalist – Prepare for a wide range of clinical settings by studying diverse therapeutic techniques and theoretical frameworks.
-
Family Systems & Intergenerational Studies – Explore relational dynamics, generational trauma, and culturally responsive family therapy.
-
Mindfulness-Based Therapy – Integrate Eastern and Western approaches by applying mindfulness, compassion, and contemplative practices to clinical care.
-
Community Mental Health – Engage with underserved populations and gain tools to support healing through advocacy, outreach, and trauma-informed care.
With real-world practicum experience, students develop the insight and skills to become compassionate, effective therapists—ready to support individuals, couples, and communities.
Who Should Apply?
UWest’s MFT program is ideal for:
✔ Aspiring therapists looking to become licensed MFTs
✔ Career changers from other academic backgrounds
✔ Scholars seeking doctoral pursuit with an MA degree
✔ Students passionate about diverse, holistic therapy approaches
Admissions Requirements
Bachelor’s Degree: From an accredited institution, in a related field of study
Transcripts: Official records from all post-secondary institutions
Letters of Recommendation: Three academic or professional references
Personal Statement: Why you want to join the MFT program
English Proficiency: Required for non-native speakers
Why Choose UWest’s MFT Program?
Future-Ready Curriculum
Dive deep into a curriculum that nurtures both the mind and the heart, blending psychological theories with real-world application.
A Global Business Perspective
Learn in a multicultural environment that reflects the realities of international business, helping you navigate diverse markets and opportunities.
Personalized Guidance
Benefit from small class sizes and dedicated faculty who mentor you toward your career goals.
Networking and Career Growth
Learn from experienced professionals who bring academic excellence and practical wisdom into the classroom.
Future-Ready Curriculum
Gain practical skills in leadership, finance, and entrepreneurship, preparing you for success in today’s competitive business world.
A Global Perspective
Immerse yourself in a multicultural learning environment where diverse perspectives enhance your understanding of human behavior.
Personalized Mentorship
Experience the power of small class sizes, where professors know your name, understand your goals, and guide you every step of the way.
Networking and Career Growth
Learn from experienced professionals who bring academic excellence and practical wisdom into the classroom.
Clinical Assessment & Diagnosis
Couples & Family Therapy Techniques
Ethical & Culturally Competent Practice
Mental Health & Behavioral Interventions
Trauma-Informed Counseling Approaches
Couples & Family Therapy Techniques
Ethical & Culturally Competent Practice
Mental Health & Behavioral Interventions
Trauma-Informed Counseling Approaches
Individualized Guidance
You will meet with a program advisor to discuss your what sparks your passions and how your interests fit into your larger career goals. Together, you will develop your individualized program—a course of study that is truly you.
Career Pathways
Graduates of UWest’s MFT program are prepared for roles such as:
- Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) – Work in private practice, clinics, and hospitals.
- School Counselor – Support students’ mental well-being.
- Substance Abuse Counselor – Help individuals overcome substance abuse disorders.
- Community Mental Health Counselor – Provide therapy in diverse communities.
- Clinical Supervisor – Mentor and oversee new therapists.
The demand for marriage and family therapists is projected to grow 16% from 2023 to 2033, well above average growth.
“My experience here has been beyond beneficial; the connection and care I have had with my
professors is something I don’t think I would have gotten sitting in an auditorium. In my time
here, I have met students from other schools, and I am very grateful for what UWEST finds
important and prioritizes in their MFT program.”
— Sharna Pinsupakiat, Class of 2025
FACULTY
Chair
Joanne Kwoh-Maysami, PhD
Faculty
Norja Cunningham, PhD
Adjunct Faculty
John Creet, PsyD, AMFT
Alexis Davis, PhD
Venerable De Hong, PhD
Donte Green, MA
Wenli Jen, EdD
Timothy Leslie, PsyD, LMFT
Ivan Medina, MA, AMFT
John Reid, PhD
Jason Stringer, MA, LMFT
Jonathan Wicks, MA, LCSW
80% of students receive some form of financial aid.
Learn more about financial aid options here!
Start Your Journey
Embark on a transformative educational journey with UWest’s Master of Arts in Psychology.
