Definition of Marriage and Family Therapy:

The Ohio Revised Code section 4757.01(G) defines marriage and family therapy- "Marriage and family therapy means the evaluation, assessment, counseling, management and treatment of emotional disorders, whether cognitive, affective, or behavioral, within the context of marriage and family systems, through the professional application of marriage and family therapies and techniques."

Section 4757.01 (H) is a definition of the practice of marriage and family therapy. “Practice of marriage and family therapy” means the treatment, evaluation, assessment counseling, and management, of emotional disorders, whether cognitive, affective or behavioral, within the context of marriage and family systems, to individuals, couples, and families, singly or in groups, whether those services are offered directly to the general public or through public or private organizations, for a fee, salary or other consideration through the professional application of marriage and family theories, therapies, and techniques, including, but not limited to psychotherapeutic theories, therapies and techniques that marriage and family therapists are educated and trained to perform. The practice of marriage and family therapy does not mean any of the following:
(1) The treatment of biologically based psychiatric conditions without consultation with an appropriate medical doctor or psychiatrist;
(2) The use of psychotherapeutic techniques that are exclusive to the scope of practice of a licensed psychologist or psychiatrist;
(3) Any act that marriage and family therapists are not educated to perform.

Please refer to the Laws and Rules for additional information. Board Laws & Rules