Family and marriage therapists identify a wide variety of mental and behavioral problems within families, individuals, and marriages. (HealthcareColleges.net, 2011) These therapists enable society to address its problems and move in a positive direction. Family and marriage therapists are responsible for gathering information by testing and observing their patients. (mymajors.com, 2011) After receiving this information, they are required to document and record the information gathered during sessions with patients. (mymajors.com, 2011) Therapists should encourage individuals to use skills or strategies when faced with a problem and should keep their knowledge current as new information develops. (mymajors.com, 2011) Some family and marriage therapists organize their files and notes using computers. (mymajors.com, 2011) The most common majors to study in college that will help prepare students for a career in family and marriage therapy include: psychology, human development and family studies, and social work . (Campus Explorer, Inc. 2011) The lowest and most desirable level of education for those studying to become a family and marriage therapist is a master's degree. (DeRoma, 2007) Sixty-eight percent who study to become a marriage and family therapist only receive their master's degree while thirty-two percent continue to earn their doctorate. (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics 2009) After earning a master's degree in family and marriage therapy, social work, or psychology, most graduates must complete approximately 3,000 hours of work as an intern before taking the exam. state license. (Professional Examination Service, Inc. 2006) Passing this exam will qualify graduates for the Marriage and Family Therapist designation and career information middle of paper. Retrieved from http://www.mymajors.com/careers-and-jobs/Marriage-and-Family-TherapistsNet Industries. (2009). Marriage and Family Counselor Job Description, Career as a Marriage and Family Counselor, Salary, Job – Definition and Nature of Job, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job Retrieved October 20, 2009 from http:/ /careers.stateuniversity.com /pages/727/Marriage-Family-Counselor.htmlProfessional Examination Service, Inc. (2006). Association of Marriage and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards. Retrieved from http://www.amftrb.org/exam.cfmU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (December 17, 2009). Advisors. Retrieved from http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos067.htmU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (May 17, 2011). Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2010. Retrieved from http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes211013.htm