International Family Therapy Association

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IFTA  Announces Family Therapy Training Standards to Qualify for Recognized Status

NEWS RELEASE
December 12, 2011

Guidelines for Family Therapy Education and Training Programs around the world were announced today by the International Family Therapy Association (IFTA).  The Guidelines were developed in order to provide a structure for education and training programs and to provide a process for family therapy education and training programs to qualify for “Recognized Status.”

The Guidelines outline minimum standards for education and training including the components of the education and training provided by training programs and qualifications for supervisors. 

Six components comprise basic knowledge and skills necessary to become a marriage and family therapist:  Theoretical Foundations; Research; Ethics and Related Professional Issues, Personal Development and Continuing Development.  The Guidelines also include minimum standards for Clinical Skill Development including clinical practice and supervision.

This Guideline calls for a minimum of 230 contact hours of theory and substance-based coursework;  250 hours of clinical practice in practica or clinical internship,  at least 125 of which should be with relational cases—couple or families;  and  for a minimum of  100 hours of supervision (individual and group), 25 of which must be directly observed (live or videotaped).

 In addition, the Guidelines outline standards for teachers and supervisors. 

1.  Minimum Education and Training Standards
2.  Components of Education and Training
3  Tentative Outline of Academic Credits and Contact Hours
4.  Guidelines for the Preparation of Teachers and Supervision
5.  Guidelines for Family Therapy Supervisors
6.  Guidelines for Qualifying for "Recognized" status
7.  Establishment of a Review Committee who will establish procedural rules and fees

IFTA Recognized Family Therapy Program (pdf)