Counseling and Marital and Family Therapy
Get to the heart—and the mind—of the matter.
Come to the SOLES Counseling and Marital and Family Therapy (CMFT) Department if you're in search of real, research-based ways to make a difference. These degrees are for those who want to go beyond good intentions and master the theories, tools, methods, and clinical experience to make a sweeping impact for individuals, families, and communities.
At the University of San Diego, classroom education is based on evidence-based research and sophisticated understanding, facilitated by our exceptional and experienced faculty. If you have the disposition to make a difference, these fully accredited programs open the doors to do just that. The academics are rigorous, but the environment is supportive and nurturing to ensure you'll thrive and see your career goals come to life.
Our programs emphasize working in diverse and underserved communities, starting with those in our surrounding area. CMFT students receive on-the-ground experience in schools, hospitals, nonprofits, and clinics, working with a diverse variety of people across economic and cultural spectrums.
Forge your path, form new connections, and find meaningful applications for your coursework.LPCC or LMFT Licensure?
The Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program and the Marital and Family Therapy program will set you up for success as you pursue state licensure.
Review our comparison sheet and determine which program and licensure is the best fit for your personal and professional goals.
Scholarships
Inclusivity is a top priority for SOLES, so if you qualify for a program, a variety of diversity-based and merit-based scholarships are available. Depending on your situation, you may qualify for financial aid to make the program more affordable. Our staff can help you navigate your options for scholarships, loan forgiveness programs, and tuition discounts for those working in nonprofits and those working as graduate assistants.
See all available scholarships
Recent Student Support Grant: A federal training grant awarded to the CMFT department in Fall of 2017 provides support for training innovations, as well as opportunities for $10,000 student stipends for practicum/fieldwork in integrated care settings and focused on meeting the needs of underserved populations. Visit the HRSA Project TeamUP website to learn more.

SOLES STUDENT AMBASSADORS
SOLES ambassadors are graduate and doctoral students who have been selected to serve as official student representatives. Ambassadors support prospective and incoming students by assisting at graduate student events, providing campus tours, and interacting with students through email, online webinars, blog posts, and social media.
Be sure to connect with a Student Ambassador to learn more about SOLES and its programs!

Alumni Spotlight
Meet alum Amanda Riebel
"Becoming an MFT was the right fit for me based on my experiences in my own therapy with a LMFT. Our families are such an integral part of who we are as human beings... Whether you are working with a couple or an individual, you can talk about their family of origin and help them make connections that help them understand themselves."
In the News
Michaelle Jinnette '09 (MA) Starts Cure KCNH1 Foundation to Help Son and Others
// June 29, 2022
Michaelle Jinnette '09 and her husband Kevin Witt have recently started the Cure KCNH1 Foundation to raise awareness for the KCNH1 genetic d…
Class of 2022: A Memorable Weekend for Law, SOLES and PCE graduate students
// May 22, 2022
Ear-to-ear smiles, warm embraces, and loud applause were plentiful during the first round of commencement ceremonies for the University of S…
Upcoming Events
- Aug10
- Aug30
SOLES Fall 2022 New Student Orientation
Tuesday, August 30, 2022 // 1 p.m.Mother Rosalie Hill Hall, Room Bishop Buddy Sala (For Check-In)