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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Licensed Professional Counselor in New Mexico
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
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 baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
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 6-24 months.
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 | 6-24 months |
| Colorado | $59,190 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $58,610 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $60,630 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $63,830 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Utah | $65,920 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
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 | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Colorado | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oklahoma | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Texas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Utah | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $77,440 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $80,950 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $46,530 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $38,840 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Mexico?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, 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. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. 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/.