Maximize Your Potential by Working With an MFT

What is an MFT and how can they help you? 

An MFT is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. They are specially qualified to help you work through challenges in your life. And more specifically, they can help you find more fulfillment in your relationship(s). Or maybe you have a complicated family dynamic. Contrary to popular belief, they don’t only deal with marriage and family issues. MFTs have specific training to help you navigate all life matters and get to a better place, no matter what you’re dealing with.

These dedicated mental health practitioners offer psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families. MFTs receive extensive training in human behavior. They study how problems arise in daily life and how to resolve them.¹

The work these therapists do is so vital, that the US Department of Health and Human Services recognizes MFTs as one of the five core mental health professions. That’s because relationships truly matter, and have such a profound impact on our happiness and sense of well-being.

Studies have shown that working with an MFT therapist can help with everything from depression to anxiety and stress-related disorders, sexual issues, or struggles with chronic medical problems like pelvic pain, endometriosis, or orgasm issues. The therapists’ methods are often more effective and less expensive than other types of treatments and interventions.²

Who can be an MFT?

All MFTs have at least a master’s or doctorate degree. They also have completed several years of clinical training. You are trusting this person with your care, so it’s absolutely ok to check into their education and experience. Many MFTs will have these details listed on their website for precisely this reason. You’ll cover a lot of sensitive and private information in your sessions. So, it’s essential to know that your therapist has the proper training to give you the support you deserve.

The MFT you work with may be male, female, or gender non-conforming. They can be single, partnered, or married. They may or may not have kids. They may be hetero or from the LGBTQ community. Their background doesn’t have to look like yours for them to be a good fit for you. That’s because an MFT isn’t the go-to expert simply because of their own life experience — they’re the ones you want to see for their highly educated and unbiased training.

A good MFT can see patterns and dynamics relating to families or individual situations. And then point out those patterns to clients. I know you’re thinking, I’m living in this situation… can’t I see those patterns myself?

Some people can. But for many of us, things can get very emotionally charged when we’re involved in a situation. And that’s understandable, especially if you’re struggling. But this makes it hard for you to see those patterns yourself. So it can be extremely eye-opening for someone to point out these patterns and dynamics to us. Like wow, it was right there the whole time and I didn’t see it.

How does an MFT identify patterns? 

They take into account your entire history. Most of the time, that goes all the way back to your childhood and everything that led you up to this point. What does your childhood have to do with the challenges in your relationship today? Frequently more than you think. That’s why learning about your background is so helpful to your therapist.

But it’s not the only focus. This is great because sometimes we’re not ready to talk about our childhood or past. Some of those memories are painful, even traumatic. Being prepared to open up and share requires a lot of trust. And that takes time to build.

Don’t worry. Your therapist will be happy to meet you where you are. Their goal isn’t to write your whole biography and learn every last detail of your life. They’re there to help you get on a more fulfilling path. Together, they can help you reach your full potential.

What you should know before choosing an MFT

Some MFTs work with insurance, and some do not. It’s entirely appropriate to ask specific questions before starting treatment. 

• Do you accept insurance? Are you in-network with my insurance provider?
• If you don’t work with insurance, do you provide superbills I can submit to my provider for reimbursement?
• What options do you have for someone with a limited budget?
• How do I negotiate with my insurance provider so they cover this service?

Your therapist is committed to your success. So, they’ll be more than happy to discuss your options frankly and formulate a treatment plan that works for you. This includes an honest discussion about insurance and finances.

Some factors to consider

Not all therapists are trained the same. Some MFTs have a variety of training to fit particular needs. For example, in addition to my MFT background, I also specialize in sex therapy, pelvic pain treatment, and trauma therapy reprocessing. Some clients need that particular combination of skill sets to find the relief they seek.

For example, many women and vulva owners suffer from low libido or chronic pelvic pain. There may be underlying physical conditions that are causing these issues. But they can also profoundly affect your relationships and overall well-being. Even if you’re addressing the physical side of the issue with your ob-gyn or physical therapist, there’s a mental and emotional component that is just as important to tackle.

Even if you’re not currently in a romantic relationship, it’s important to reach out for help. Unresolved issues with pelvic pain or sexual issues cause stress, anxiety, shame, and other mental health issues. This can affect your confidence at work, how assertive you are in all kinds of situations, what types of exercise you do, your body image, and so much more.

You deserve to be happy. So no matter what type of issue you’re struggling with, a qualified MFT can guide your way forward. I’d love to see you reach your full potential and live your best life. To learn more about how working with an MFT can make your life more fulfilled, check out my website: https://www.cassardcenter.com/ I look forward to helping you get on the path to a better you.

1. What Is an MFT? | CSP | College of Education | SDSU ↩︎
2. Marriage and Family Therapists ↩︎