MFT Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield MFT facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. When using the Couples Dialogue (mirroring, validating, empathizing) in Imago Therapy, which step comes LAST? → Empathizing
2. In attachment theory applied to couples therapy (EFT), the core goal of Stage 2 is best described as: → Restructuring negative interactional cycles at the level of attachment emotions
3. Which of the following is a key distinguishing feature of Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia) in the DSM-5? → Depressed mood present for at least 2 years in adults
4. When conducting a crisis assessment, the mnemonic IS PATH WARM helps identify warning signs. What does the 'A' stand for? → Anxiety
5. Which of the following statements regarding the MFT's obligation to report is TRUE? → The therapist must report all suspected and proven cases of elder and child abuse
6. A therapist uses 'here-and-now' focus in a therapy group primarily to: → Use the live interactions between members as therapeutic material
7. The ethical principle of 'fidelity' in MFT practice primarily refers to: → Keeping promises and honoring commitments to clients, colleagues, and the profession
8. In structural family therapy, what term describes the invisible rules that govern how family members interact with one another? → Boundaries
9. Which family therapy model specifically addresses trauma by focusing on disrupted attachment bonds? → Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
10. During a family session, an 8-year-old becomes the scapegoat for all family tension. Using Bowen's family systems theory, this pattern reflects: → Triangulation and the projection of family anxiety onto the child
11. According to the DSM-5, which of the following is required to diagnose Borderline Personality Disorder? → At least 5 of 9 specified criteria present
12. In family psychoeducation (FPE) for schizophrenia, the primary evidence-based goal is to: → Reduce relapse rates by decreasing expressed emotion and improving family coping
13. In Imago Relationship Therapy, the 'Imago' refers to: → An unconscious composite image of early caretakers that shapes partner selection
14. In MFT practice, when should a patient's condition be reassessed? → At regular intervals and when status changes
15. When screening potential members for a therapy group, an MFT should PRIMARILY consider: → Whether the client's goals and functioning level are appropriate for the group
16. In narrative therapy, what is the term for the process of building a new, preferred story by finding evidence that contradicts the problem-saturated story? → Unique outcomes
17. Which developmental task is most associated with Erikson's stage of 'Generativity vs. Stagnation'? → Contributing to the next generation through parenting or mentoring
18. During a crisis, a client exhibits dissociative symptoms and is unable to engage cognitively. The therapist should FIRST: → Use grounding techniques to bring the client back to the present
19. What is the role of informed consent in child and adolescent therapy? → It ensures the patient understands and agrees to the plan
20. Which intervention is MOST consistent with a trauma-informed approach to crisis care? → Emphasizing safety, trustworthiness, choice, collaboration, and empowerment
21. In MFT practice, what is the best approach to quality improvement in crisis intervention? → Use data-driven methods with measurable outcomes
22. A family therapist uses a genogram to reveal a multigenerational pattern of alcoholism. This assessment tool is most associated with: → Bowen Family Systems Theory
23. What is the value of continuing education in crisis intervention for MFT professionals? → It keeps professionals current with evolving standards and practices
24. An adolescent discloses marijuana use but denies any other risk factors. Using a harm reduction framework, the MFT's best initial step is to: → Explore the function of use and provide psychoeducation on risks
25. In Herman's phase-based model of trauma treatment, which phase involves directly processing traumatic memories? → Remembrance and mourning
26. The Calgary Family Assessment Model (CFAM) organizes family assessment into three major domains. Which of the following is NOT one of them? → Cultural
27. What is the most important factor in effective communication with patients regarding family therapy models? → Using clear, understandable language and confirming understanding
28. A researcher reports a 95% confidence interval of [2.1, 8.4] for a mean difference. The correct interpretation is: → If repeated sampling were done, 95% of such intervals would contain the true mean
29. Which of the following best describes the therapeutic technique of 'enactment' in structural family therapy? → The family is asked to demonstrate their conflict in session
30. A couple divorcing subpoenas their joint therapy records. Neither spouse agrees to waive privilege. How should the therapist respond? → Assert privilege and decline to release records without a court order