The Medical Family Therapy (MedFT) Concentration and Clinical Specialization are designed for graduate-level students in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) or Counseling who want to deepen their clinical expertise at the intersection of physical health and family systems. Through two online doctoral-level courses grounded in family systems theory, students develop the assessment and intervention skills needed to support patients and families navigating illness, injury, or disability—while learning to collaborate effectively within interdisciplinary healthcare teams. The Specialization option requires 12 months of fieldwork experience at an approved medical or health-related clinical setting, preparing graduates to serve as a full member of a collaborative care team addressing the biopsychosocial-spiritual needs of patients and families in medical settings, private practice, schools, community organizations, and beyond.
Concentration Requirements
The Medical Family Therapy Concentration consists of 6 units of doctoral-level coursework.
Curriculum
- CFSD 540 Introduction to Medical Family Therapy (3) - Spring quarter, online asynchronous
- CFSD 544 Health and Illness in Families (3) (Prerequisite: CFSD 540) - Fall quarter, online asynchronous
Clinical Specialization Requirements
In addition to the concentration requirements, Clinical Specialization candidates will complete 12 months of fieldwork in an approved medical or health-related clinical setting during their second year in the MFT MS program. The experience prepares students to participate as members of a collaborative team in supporting the biopsychosocial-spiritual needs of patients and families.
Application Process
Step 1: Initial Planning and Eligibility Check
- Review program requirements for the MedFT specialization in your institution’s handbook or website.
- Confirm eligibility with your Program Director (PD), including academic standing and clinical readiness.
- Discuss your interest with the Director of Clinical Training (DCT) to ensure alignment with your practicum/internship timeline.
Step 2: Check Online Courses
- Identify the two required online courses:
- Introduction to Medical Family Therapy
- Health and Illness in Families
- Contact the course instructor, Dr. Jacqueline Williams-Reade, to:
- Confirm course availability and prerequisites
- Discuss expectations and how coursework integrates with your clinical training
- Coordinate with your PD and DCT to ensure these courses fit within your academic plan and count toward specialization credit.
Step 3: Submit Statement of Interest and Interview with Program Faculty
Step 4: Secure a MedFT-Approved Traineeship Site
- Work with the DCT to identify and apply to a MedFT-approved clinical site.
- Obtain formal approval from the PD and DCT before beginning the traineeship.
Contact Information
For more information, contact the MFT MS Program Director, Dr. Lena Lopez Bradley, or the MFT MS Director of Clinical Training, Dr. Monique Willis.