Committed to Clinical Excellence: CTS MFT Program Prepares for COAMFTE Reaccreditation and Expands Hybrid Innovation
This spring marks an important season for the leadership of the Marriage and Family Therapy program as they guide the program through national reaccreditation with the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE). The comprehensive self-study is well underway, reflecting the team’s thoughtful preparation and ongoing commitment to excellence.
“In 2024, CTS celebrated 30 years of accreditation,” said MFT Program Director Dr. Suzanne Coyle. COAMFTE is recognized by the Council on Higher Education Accreditation as the only approved organization for accrediting graduate MFT degree and clinical training programs. Their role is to ensure sound teaching, best practices, and proper supervision for students so that they can finish their program with a high degree of skill. Students who attend a COAMFTE accredited program are ensured of quality education and licensure opportunities.
The current accreditation as a hybrid/blended model is another unique aspect to the highly regarded program that is set within the Seminary. Dr. Coyle noted that the MFT program at CTS already fills a niche population since it is based on relational and systematic clinical approaches with spiritual integration.
President David Mellott agreed, “Expanding our MFT program to include elements of hybrid learning is both a pedagogical and practical decision. Graduates of our programs are known for their effectiveness and excellence with in-person therapies. Through opportunities for learning in a hybrid environment and providing clinical care through a virtual platform, our graduates increase their skills and competencies. Hybrid learning is also a practical move, providing students with greater flexibility to complete their degree in a timely manner and enter the workforce.”
According to Dr. Coyle, the hybrid/blended model includes 50 percent of the courses in person and as a virtual option. The program identifies which classes are open for online attendance. However, the first clinical practicum experience and supervision work is in person.
In addition to more flexibility for students, this change will help out-of-state students prepare for licensure in their home states. Currently, there are students from Ohio and Michigan enrolled in the program.
Student Timothy McKnight was initially drawn to the MFT program because of its clinical seriousness and commitment to understanding people within relational, social, and spiritual contexts.
“I wanted preparation that would strengthen my development as a therapist while remaining attentive to human dignity, community life, and experience. That integration mattered to me, and I found it at CTS,” he said.
McKnight, who already holds multiple degrees including a PhD in Human Services, said his preference is to “sit in a classroom” for the energy and exchange that naturally occurs. However, due to work and family commitments, a hybrid/blended program made the most sense.
“The hybrid structure gave me the flexibility to respond to those moments of responsibility while still maintaining the academic and clinical rigor necessary for success in the program, McKnight said. He expects to graduate in Spring 2026. He added that because of the virtual choice, he was able to serve as a teaching assistant and associate. “The flexibility of the hybrid modality made it possible for me to participate meaningfully in each of these opportunities for service and leadership.”
Chad Delany affirmed that it was the hybrid/blended model that helped him identify the CTS program. “I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for that option,” he said. “I live six hours away in Northeast Ohio. I serve a church full-time, so I knew doing classes was going to be a challenge regardless, but the hybrid model made it possible.”
Delany, who has served as Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) pastor for 20 years found the systematic approach in the MFT program as his best fit – adding the integrative model of spirituality, justice, and compassion was like no other education opportunity he found.
“Overall, I have been very impressed with how the CTS faculty and staff have made my online classes a quality experience,” he said. “The tech has cooperated, and the sound has always been done well. I love that the classes are live, and I can participate in class discussions and feel like I’m there.”
As CTS moves through the reaccreditation process, the Marriage and Family Therapy program continues to model the very principles it teaches—rigor, reflection, adaptability, and care. With a strong foundation and a commitment to innovation, the program remains well-positioned to prepare skilled, compassionate clinicians for the evolving needs of communities near and far.
