Overview
The Medical Family Therapy Concentration and Specialization are designed for MFT graduate students with an interest in working with patients and families living with an illness, injury, or disability. Courses include relevant family systems-informed theories and models, assessment and intervention skills, emphasis on diversity and social contexts, and collaborating with medical professionals, and unique self-of-therapist considerations. The specialization in medical family therapy prepares students to work as a member of the healthcare team in addressing the biopsychosocial-spiritual needs of patients and families. Individuals trained can work in medical settings, private practice, schools, community settings, mental health facilities, etc.
Concentration Requirements
The Medical Family Therapy Specialization 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
Specialization Requirements
The Medical Family Therapy Specialization consists of 6 units of doctoral-level coursework and a 12-month fieldwork experience in an approved healthcare setting.
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
Fieldwork
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 a member of a collaborative team to help support the biopsychosocial-spiritual needs of patients and families.
Application Process
This specialization is designed for graduate-level students in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) or Counseling programs who wish to deepen their clinical and theoretical expertise in medical settings. It includes two online courses and a 12-month traineeship at a MedFT-approved site.
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: Enroll in 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: 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.