Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NM Board of Healthcare
Licensed Professional Counselor Licensing in New Mexico
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for licensed professional counselor in New Mexico, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Licensed Professional Counselor in New Mexico
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
New Mexico Regulation & Licensing Department • Boards and Commissions Division • New Mexico Counseling and Therapy Practice Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$70,770 median (20% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#2 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet New Mexico eligibility requirements for Licensed Professional Counselor licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to New Mexico Regulation & Licensing Department~Boards and Commissions Division~New Mexico Counseling and Therapy Practice Board and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in New Mexico
With a median salary of $70,770, Licensed Professional Counselors in New Mexico earn 20% above the national median of $59,190. New Mexico ranks #2 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+0.9%Average Weekly Wage
$1,189Median annual salary
$70,770Hourly estimate
$34.0220% above national median
Difference: +$11,580
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLicensed Professional Counselor Salary Ranking
#2 of 50 statesfor Licensed Professional Counselor median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Alaska | $79,220 |
| #2 | New Mexico | $70,770 |
| #3 | Oregon | $69,660 |
| #4 | North Dakota | $66,450 |
| #5 | Utah | $65,920 |
Nearby States Comparison
Licensed Professional Counselor licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Mexico | $70,770 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Colorado | $59,190 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Oklahoma | $58,610 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Texas | $60,630 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| Arizona | $63,830 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Utah | $65,920 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Mexico | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Colorado | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Oklahoma | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Texas | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Utah | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
New Mexico Regulation & Licensing Department • Boards and Commissions Division • New Mexico Counseling and Therapy Practice Board
2550 Cerrillos Road, Second Floor, P.O. Box 25101, Santa Fe, NM, 87505
Phone: 5054764610
Related Careers in New Mexico
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $83,220 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | $318,450 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $62,300 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $77,440 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Mexico?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Licensed Professional Counselors in New Mexico?
New Mexico lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Licensed Professional Counselors.
What education do you need to become a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Mexico?
The board typically expects Degree required for Licensed Professional Counselor licensure in New Mexico.
What is the typical Licensed Professional Counselor salary in New Mexico?
The median annual salary for Licensed Professional Counselors in New Mexico is $70,770. Salaries range from $47,910 (10th percentile) to $92,520 (90th percentile).
How does the Licensed Professional Counselor salary in New Mexico compare to the national average?
Licensed Professional Counselors in New Mexico earn 20% above the national median of $59,190, with a state median of $70,770.
How many Licensed Professional Counselors work in New Mexico?
New Mexico employs approximately 2,070 Licensed Professional Counselors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Licensed Professional Counselor license to New Mexico from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Licensed Professional Counselors in New Mexico?
The licensing agency is New Mexico Regulation & Licensing Department / Boards and Commissions Division / New Mexico Counseling and Therapy Practice Board. Review agency details at https://www.rld.nm.gov/boards-and-commissions/individual-boards-and-commissions/counseling-and-therapy-practice-overview/.
How often do you renew a Licensed Professional Counselor license in New Mexico?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.