Become a Counselor in New Mexico

Below are basic guidelines for those wishing to earn their counseling certification in New Mexico. Most of these requirements, such as earning your Master’s degree, completing 3000 hours of supervised experience and passing the NCE examination, are likely to continue to be mandatory in the New Mexico counseling licensure process. However, it is wise to contact the New Mexico Counseling and Therapy Practice Board at (505) 476-4610 to make sure you are on the right track.

I’m a High School Graduate

As a high school graduate already researching New Mexico counseling certification requirements, you are doing a great job setting yourself up to earn a prosperous career. Hold onto your momentum and consider how you can enroll in an accredited Associate’s degree program or Bachelor’s degree program in psychology, counseling or a related field.

Click on the links below to browse schools offering programs in psychology or counseling.

Once you have enrolled in a program, take advantage of your school’s career services department and learn how you can find employment or volunteer opportunities that are related to the counseling career path.

Already Received Bachelor’s Degree

Once you have your bachelor’s degree, you should start looking for a school that offers a master’s or doctoral degree program in counseling. Request information from schools offering counseling programs in New Mexico.

Step One:

A total of 3000 hours of post-graduate work experience are needed, 1000 of which can be earned through an internship or practicum while earning your degree. All hours need to be under a qualified supervisor.

More details can be found on the New Mexico Commission of Public Records website.

Step Two:

Download the New Mexico counseling license application and submit the application, along with all other supporting forms and required fees, to the New Mexico Counseling and Therapy Practice Board.

You may download the application from the following New Mexico Board’s webpage.

Step Three:

The Board should review your application packet, and if it is approved, they should notify you of your eligibility to sit for the necessary examinations in addition to providing information about registration.

The New Mexico Board requires you to pass both the National Counselor Examination and the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination. Information about both exams can be found on the National Board for Certified Counselors website.

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