Membership in the International Association of Marriage and Family Counselors (IAMFC) includes counselors, mental health counselors, marriage and family counselors and therapists, social workers, psychologists and psychiatrists. Elements common to members include professional training in counseling or a closely related area, additional training in marriage and family counseling and therapy, and an interest and involvement in working directly or tangentially with couple and family systems.

IAMFC grew from 143 members after its initial call in 1986 to over 8000 members by 1993. IAMFC was recognized nationally as the fastest growing association in the behavioral sciences during the 1990’s. Also in 1990, the IAMFC official headquarters was established with Robert L. Smith, IAMFC past president, named as the first executive director.

IAMFC has established the most rigorous training standards in marriage and family counseling (including 60 hours of coursework and extensive clinical supervision with couples and families), a national/international family counseling & therapy certification through the National Credentialing Academy NCA, an international journal in family counseling, The Family Journal, a professional set of ethical standards, professional videos, and print resources. IAMFC is a modern, non political organization that respects cultural differences, diversity, and sister professional associations.