How to Become a Marriage and Family Therapists in Tennessee
Marriage and Family Therapists in Tennessee earn a median salary of $45,660/year, which is 28% below the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a marriage and family therapists takes home approximately $1,815/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a marriage and family therapists can afford in Tennessee
Becoming a marriage and family therapists in Tennessee
Meet education requirements
Marriage and Family Therapists positions in Tennessee typically require Master's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Tennessee. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many marriage and family therapists positions in Tennessee require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Tennessee licensure or certification
Tennessee may require specific licensing or professional certification for marriage and family therapistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Tennessee Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Tennessee
Tennessee employs 2,590 marriage and family therapists. The highest concentrations are in Kingsport-Bristol and Chattanooga.
Marriage and Family Therapists salary by metro area in Tennessee
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kingsport-Bristol | $49K | $23.78/hr | 50 |
| Chattanooga | $48K | $22.97/hr | 230 |
| Johnson City | $48K | $22.94/hr | 170 |
| Cleveland | $47K | $22.76/hr | 30 |
| Morristown | $47K | $22.66/hr | 50 |
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin | $47K | $22.63/hr | 950 |
| Memphis | $47K | $22.36/hr | 340 |
| Jackson | $45K | $21.85/hr | 90 |
| Knoxville | $43K | $20.8/hr | 280 |
| Clarksville | $39K | $18.6/hr | 70 |
Marriage and Family Therapists salary range in Tennessee
Marriage and Family Therapists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a marriage and family therapists make in Tennessee?▼
The median marriage and family therapists salary in Tennessee is $45,660 per year ($21.95/hr). This is 28% below the national median of $63,780. Salaries range from $31,000 to $60,820.
What are the requirements to become a marriage and family therapists in Tennessee?▼
Marriage and Family Therapists positions in Tennessee typically require Master's degree. Tennessee may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Tennessee licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a marriage and family therapists afford to live in Tennessee?▼
At the median salary of $45,660, a marriage and family therapists in Tennessee would take home approximately $3,227/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 43.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for marriage and family therapists in Tennessee?▼
The highest paying metro areas for marriage and family therapists in Tennessee are Kingsport-Bristol ($49,460), Chattanooga ($47,770), Johnson City ($47,710). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Tennessee have state income tax for marriage and family therapists?▼
No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means marriage and family therapists keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.