When can an LMFT take supervisory training? Last week I gave you the guidelines for LPC's. This week we're going to take a look at the LMFT rules for timing your supervisory training.

You're Going to Need Your "LMFT Counselor's Bible"

For future reference, the answer to almost all questions of this type are going to be found in your copy of your Board's Rulebook. You may find that and download it right now. Bookmark the link I just gave you and check it periodically.

I'm going to be using the LMFT Rulebook in this example and I'll be referring to the rule number rather than by page numbers. Page numbers may change with each rulebook update but the rules numbers should not unless the actual rule changes.

When Can an LMFT Take Supervisory Training?

Last week we addressed (3) related questions about timing your supervisory training. We'll do the same this week but only (1) of the questions has any clear-cut answers in the LMFT Rulebook.

#1. When am I eligible to apply to become a supervisor?

Reference: 801.143. Supervisor Requirements.
(a) To apply for supervisor status, an LMFT in good standing must submit an application and applicable fee as well as documentation of the following:
     (1) completion of at least 3,000 hours of LMFT practice over a minimum of 3 years; and
(A) successful completion of a 3-semester-hour, graduate course in marriage and family therapy supervision from an accredited institution; or
(B) a 40-hour continuing education course in clinical supervision; or
     (2) designation as an approved supervisor or supervisor candidate by the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT).

So there are two possible scenarios to qualify to submit a supervisory status application and only one of them specifies a time-frame.

• 3,000 hours over 3 years, a few bucks, and you're good.
• The AAMFT has blessed you as a supervisor or candidate. (No time frame given)

#2. May I take the Supervisory Training class before I reach the 3-year mark?

Reference: Timeframes as they pertain to this question, are not addressed in the LMFT Rulebook. This gives you two options:

1. Do what the LPC's do and hope your best guess is acceptable at licensure submission time, or
2. Contact BHEC and ask them for rules clarification (they do the administrative licensing work so I'd start here but I have a feeling you might get referred to your LMFT Board).

#3. How long do I have to complete a training course once I begin it?

Reference: Again, this particular question is not addressed in the LMFT Rulebook.  Your options for getting an answer are the same here as immediately above in question #2.

Summary

Once you complete 3 years/3000 hours OR you have been designated as a supervisor/candidate by the AAMFT then you are eligible to submit your supervisory application request to BHEC.

In the absence of clear direction in the LMFT Rulebook I suggest you contact BHEC and/or the LMFT Board for further clarification on questions 2 and 3 above. And get it in writing!

Plan Smart. Be Safe. Serve Others.

Kathleen Mills, LPC-S, CEAP