What is an LMFT?

A Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) is a mental health professional who has obtained a license to practice therapy/counseling with a focus on systems theory: the understanding of relationships, including friendships, romantic couples, and families.

How are LMFTs Trained and Licensed?

LMFTs are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of mental and emotional issues, with an emphasis on how these issues affect individuals within the context of their relationships and family systems.

To become an LMFT, individuals typically need to complete a master's or doctoral degree in Marriage and Family Therapy or a related field, followed by a period of supervised clinical practice and successful completion of licensing exams. The specific requirements for licensure can vary by state or region.

Once licensed, LMFTs are authorized to provide therapy and counseling services to individuals, couples, and families, helping them navigate and improve their relationships and overall mental health.

Liz Davis, LMFT, LCMFT is licensed in both Kansas and Missouri.

Is an LMFT a Doctor?

No, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) is not a medical doctor. LMFTs typically hold a master's or doctoral degree in Marriage and Family Therapy or a related field, but they are not medical doctors and cannot prescribe medication. Instead, they specialize in providing therapy and counseling focused on relationships, family dynamics, and individual mental health within the context of these relationships. For medication, LMFTs often collaborate with psychiatrists or other medical professionals.

Can an LMFT Prescribe Medication?

No, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) cannot prescribe medication. LMFTs specialize in providing therapy and counseling services but do not have the authority to prescribe medications.

Medication management for mental health conditions typically falls under the purview of psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, or other medical doctors who have specialized training in psychopharmacology. However, LMFTs often collaborate with psychiatrists or primary care physicians to ensure a comprehensive treatment plan for their clients.

We collaborate with our clients to determine if medication may be beneficial as a supplement to our therapeutic work. For clients who need medication, we partner with Sue Clavette, an Integrative Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (NP) at Empower Mental Health & Wellness, which has an office in Overland Park, KS. Sue often provides holistic mental health and psychiatric care for our mutual clients.

Can an LMFT Diagnose?

Yes, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) has specific training from their Master’s Degree to utilize the latest DSM-5-TR to evaluate, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders. Some LMFTs may pursue additional clinical training to diagnose and address specific disorders they specialize in. Others may prefer to collaborate with clients to determine whether a particular diagnosis is necessary for treatment or unnecessary if the client does not meet diagnostic criteria for any particular disorder. Some LMFTs may offer to do a formal psychological evaluation to determine if a client fits the diagnostic criteria for a diagnosis. Other LMFTs may choose to refer out to a clinical psychologist for psychological testing, assessments, and evaluations if symptoms are severe and specialized treatment is needed. LMFTs may evaluate and diagnose by also taking into account the context of a client’s life and relationships, while a clinical psychologist may focus more on the individual and their symptoms.

LMFT Specialties.

Preventive Care For Long-Term Growth

LMFTs not only address existing issues but can also help families develop preventive strategies to maintain strong and healthy relationships in the long term. This can help avoid future problems.

Collaborative Work

LMFTs often work closely with other mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists or psychologists, when medication or specialized testing is needed. This collaborative approach ensures comprehensive care.

Expertise in Relationships and Family Dynamics

LMFTs are uniquely trained to focus on relationships and family dynamics. If your primary concern revolves around family issues, communication problems, or relational conflicts, an LMFT is specifically equipped to address these challenges.

Conflict Resolution and Communication Skills

LMFTs are skilled in helping individuals and families resolve conflicts and improve communication. They can teach valuable skills that enhance the quality of family interactions, leading to healthier relationships.

Connected, Holistic Approach

LMFTs take a holistic approach to therapy. They understand that individual mental health is closely connected to the health of family relationships. By considering the family unit as a whole, they can help improve the well-being of each family member.

Tailored Solutions for You and Your Family

LMFTs provide personalized treatment plans that are uniquely tailored to the specific needs of you and your family. LMFTs work to address your family's unique challenges, as well as address individual needs.

Fostering Supportive Environments

LMFTs aim to create supportive and nurturing family environments that can contribute to individual and collective well-being. They can guide families in becoming a source of strength for one another.

Cultural Sensitivity

LMFTs are typically trained to be culturally sensitive and can help clients from diverse backgrounds navigate the unique challenges and expectations that may arise within their families.

Different Types of Mental Health Professionals.

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)

  • Specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families navigate relationship and family challenges.

  • Training equips them to enhance communication, resolve conflicts, and improve overall relational dynamics.

  • With their specialized expertise, they’re here to help you build stronger, healthier connections with your family, friends, colleagues, and any other loved ones in your life.

  • Marriage and Family Therapists can not prescribe medication, but we collaborate with clinicians who are licensed to do so.

Psychiatrist

  • A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can diagnose and treat mental health conditions, often using medication as part of their treatment approach.

  • If you're looking for a provider who can prescribe medication and address the biological aspects of mental health, a psychiatrist may be the right choice.

Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

  • A Licensed Clinical Social Worker is skilled in providing counseling, case management, and advocacy. They are also trained to help clients find and navigate social services.

  • If you need support for emotional and social challenges, an LCSW can help you navigate these aspects of your life.

Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC)

  • A Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor is trained to offer counseling and psychotherapy services.

  • They provide guidance and support using various therapeutic techniques such as CBT and DBT to help you overcome your personal challenges.

Other Mental Health Providers

  • Additional professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, and clinical psychologists, offer evaluations, assessments, diagnoses, and counseling and therapy services.

  • Psychologists have at least four years of post-graduate education and may specialize in psychological testing, assessment, diagnosis, and therapy, typically with four years of training in a variety of areas.

  • Clinical Psychologists are psychologists with an additional two years of post-study training under supervision who tend to specialize in psychological testing, assessment, and treatment of more severe psychological disorders.

  • Psychiatric nurse practitioners can diagnose and treat mental health conditions and prescribe medications in some states.

Why Did Liz Decide to Become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Kansas City, MO?

I’ve known I’ve wanted to be a therapist since I was fourteen years old - when I saw my first therapist! When deciding what type of therapist to be, I had many options. It was so confusing! After doing some research, I decided to become an LMFT.

Read below to discover why!

Liz Davis’s LMFT Journey.

Liz Davis is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.

There are so many types of mental health professionals! When deciding to go to graduate school, I had to determine whether I wanted to be a psychologist, a clinical social worker, a licensed professional counselor, or a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I truly didn’t know the difference between them!

After some research, I learned that the graduate school training for each profession was slightly different. When researching LMFTs, I learned that they are trained in “systems theory” or basically learning how to work with multiple clients in the room, whether that be friends, couples (even nonmonogamous couples), families, or other types of relationships.

I knew I wanted my training to include learning theories about family dynamics because I believe we are all shaped in part by our pasts and our childhoods. To better serve my clients, I wanted to be trained to understand relational dynamics because even when working with individuals, we all have important relationships in our lives, and I wanted the training and skill to help all of my clients learn to better navigate their relationships in a healthy way.

As an LMFT, I am equipped to help individual clients navigate their relationships, process their pasts and childhoods, assist with processing present-day mental health symptoms and life stressors, and collaborate with them to activate mental, emotional, and behavioral change that will help them manifest their ideal future.

I am so grateful that my graduate school training equipped me to not only comfortably work with individuals in therapy but also receive specific training to work directly with couples and families.

I decided to attend Friends University in Kansas City for a two-year graduate school program, which included an extensive internship program where I got to work with incredible clients during my training while under supervision, many of whom I still see to this day! While the program was rigorous, I survived! In many ways, I even thrived!

I was able to work part-time at Friends University as the Graduate Student Assistant of Recruitment, helping to support and consult with individuals who were curious about attending the Friends University program.

I was honored to represent the university to incoming new students and provide information and guidance to help them make their decisions. I am proud to say that I graduated as a member of the Delta Kappa Honor Society, and was selected by the faculty to be a recipient of the Sheldon Louthan Award for exceptional representation and contribution to the field of Marriage and Family Therapy.

That was quite a surprise and an honor!

I am passionate about my profession as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and am honored to serve my dear clients in Kansas City, MO!

Liz Davis, M.S., LMFT in Kansas City.

Why Did Lynee Decide to Become a Marriage and Family Therapist in Kansas City, MO?

I always knew I wanted to go back to school, but for a long time, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to pursue. The process felt daunting—applying to a master’s program, the pressure of interviews, and the long wait to see if I’d be accepted.

Read below to hear the whole story!

Meet Lynee Gonzales, M.S., PLMFT: Your Partner in Healing

Initially, I began my undergraduate studies in fashion merchandising. Midway through my junior year, I decided I wasn’t completely fulfilled with this. I was set to complete my degree by the end of the semester, but being completely done felt kinda scary. So I decided to start a whole new major of early childhood development while also completing a minor in commercial art—though, if I’m being honest- I couldn’t tell you what that even means now.

After working with children for over six years, returning to work post-pandemic left me feeling deeply unfulfilled. I couldn’t shake the feeling that I was falling behind in life. It was during this time that I experienced my most intense episode of depression—a stark contrast to the anxiety and depression I had managed for as long as I could remember. This wasn’t just a bad week; it was a wake-up call.

Authenticity is incredibly important to me, not just with others but also with myself. I took a hard look at the discomfort I was feeling and realized something had to change. That’s when I decided to do something terrifying: I applied to graduate school. With two degrees and one minor under my belt—none of which truly felt like the right fit—I knew this time I needed to follow my passion.

I’ve always been drawn to helping others, especially those who didn’t have someone to guide them through life’s challenges. Growing up, mental health was never openly discussed in my community, and I wanted to change that. I decided to become the therapist I needed when I was younger—a supportive advocate who could offer understanding and tools to those navigating struggles like mine.

Applying and interviewing was nerve-wracking, but at my lowest point, I realized I could only move upward. Even if I wasn’t accepted right away, I knew I’d find my path eventually. That time in my life showed me something powerful: failure isn’t trying and falling short—it’s never trying at all. As much as I hated experiencing that depressive episode, it became the push I needed to put my dreams into motion.

Looking back, I see it as both a blessing and a curse. Depression sucks!— it’s something I wouldn’t wish on anyone. But it also set me on the path I was meant to follow. It’s a journey I’m grateful for, and it’s one that brought me here: to a career helping others find their way to healing.

Hear it directly from our clients! Why you should work with an LMFT.

  • "When I was searching for a counselor, I didn't know what all the letters behind their names meant, but I'm so glad I found Liz because she really understands relationships."

    — Anonymous

  • "Liz had to explain to me what an LMFT is, but once I understood , her approach made so much sense. I not only understand myself better, but also my family and where I come from."

    — Kathleen K.

  • "After working with Liz for a couple years, she helped me realize I wanted to be a therapist too! I start my LMFT training at Friends University next Fall!! I'm seriously so excited to be a therapist too one day."

    — Anonymous

  • LMFT stands for Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Unlike other mental health professionals, LMFTs are trained in "systems theory," focusing on working with multiple clients in the room, such as individuals, couples, groups, or families. This specialized training helps them understand and navigate relationship dynamics.

  • LMFTs specialize in enhancing communication, resolving conflicts, and improving overall family dynamics. This unique focus on relationships, along with a collaborative approach, distinguishes LMFTs from other mental health professionals in the Kansas City area.

  • While LMFTs cannot prescribe medication, we collaborate closely with licensed clinicians, such as psychiatrists, who can. This ensures comprehensive care, addressing both the relational and biological aspects of mental health. In fact, when our clients collaborate to determine that medication is necessary to supplement the work we are doing in therapy, we have a holistic psychiatric nurse practitioner that we typically refer to because we trust her and she provides quality care. If a client signs a Release of Information (ROI), we can also speak and collaborate with their existing psychiatrist or primary care physician already prescribing their medication if the client thinks this would promote more continuity in their healing journey.

  • LMFTs specialize in navigating relationship and family challenges. We help enhance communication, resolve conflicts, and improve overall family dynamics, providing tailored solutions for the unique needs of each client. We are also trained to work on a variety of individual issues such as depression, self-esteem, anxiety, trauma, etc.

  • Absolutely! In addition to addressing existing issues, LMFTs can help families develop preventive strategies to maintain strong and healthy relationships in the long term, minimizing the likelihood of future problems.

  • LMFTs understand that individual mental health is interconnected with family relationships. By considering the family unit as a whole, they can improve the well-being of each family member, fostering a more comprehensive and lasting impact.

  • LMFTs are trained to be culturally sensitive. This enables them to help clients from diverse backgrounds navigate unique challenges and expectations within their families, ensuring a supportive and inclusive therapeutic environment.

  • LMFTs undergo specialized graduate school training, with a focus on systems theory. Liz received her training at Friends University in Kansas City, a rigorous two-year program that included extensive internship experience and prepared her for a fulfilling career in Marriage and Family Therapy.

  • While LMFTs specialize in relationships and family dynamics, they are equipped to help individuals as well. We are passionate about assisting individuals in navigating their pasts, processing mental health symptoms in the present, and collaborating to achieve their ideal futures. LMFTs are trained in addressing individual concerns. Whatever you are facing in life, we are here to support you on your unique journey.

  • Absolutely. LMFTs are trained to address a wide range of challenges, including grief and trauma. We provide a supportive space to process and navigate these difficult experiences, helping individuals, couples, and families heal and move forward.

  • LMFTs are adept at working with individuals of all ages, including children and adolescents. At Liz Davis Therapy, we choose to work with adults ages 18 years and older; however, we have experience working with children and adolescents during our graduate school clinical internships. Our approach involves tailoring therapeutic strategies to meet the unique needs of adult clients, fostering positive development and overall wellness for adult individuals, couples, and families.

  • The duration of therapy varies depending on the needs of the client. We collaborate with new clients to determine the appropriate frequency of therapy for them in the beginning, and we allow our clients to determine whatever duration feels appropriate to them. Our clients are free to let us know when they feel their needs have been adequately addressed and if they would like to complete therapy. We also foster the types of relationships with our clients where they always know they can come back to therapy in the future if they ever want or need to. In our experience, many of our clients who have met their clinical goals tend to want to move to “maintenance”, where they no longer have regular sessions at the same frequency, but rather they can just schedule an appointment in the Client Portal whenever they feel like they want or need a session to process through a life event or a specific issue.

  • LMFTs employ a variety of therapeutic techniques tailored to each client's unique situation. These may include communication skills training, conflict resolution strategies, and interventions to improve overall family dynamics, fostering healthier relationships. LMFTs in Kansas and Missouri are required to complete 40 hours of continuing education every two years, so we stay up to date on current evidence-based therapeutic models, theories, and interventions to best serve our clients.

  • Absolutely. Co-parenting can present unique challenges, and LMFTs are trained to help navigate and improve these dynamics. We provide support and strategies to foster effective communication and collaboration for the well-being of the children involved.

  • Liz Davis Therapy stands out for its commitment to personalized, client-centered care. We bring a wealth of experience, a passion for fostering strong relationships, and a dedication to the well-being of individuals and families in the Kansas City community. We also stand out in that we bring our own personality and style into our therapeutic work. Our clients don’t feel like they are talking to a blank slate who just asks them questions. They truly get to know us and we work collaboratively and have active dialogue in sessions!

  • While we love seeing my clients in person, yes, we offer virtual therapy options to accommodate the diverse needs and preferences of clients in the Kansas City metro area. Virtual sessions provide flexibility and accessibility for those who may find it challenging to attend in-person appointments.

 Frequently Asked Questions about LMFTs.