New Mexico’s diverse communities and unique cultural heritage make it a dynamic place to pursue a counseling career. Students here can access public universities, private colleges, and flexible online programs that prepare them for roles in schools, community agencies, hospitals, or private practice. With statewide efforts to expand mental health and behavioral health services, New Mexico offers strong opportunities for aspiring counselors.
Undergraduate Counseling Programs in New Mexico
Students in New Mexico who are interested in counseling careers often begin with undergraduate studies in psychology, human services, or related areas. While professional licensure requires a graduate degree, a bachelor’s program provides a strong foundation in human behavior, research, and communication skills.
For those seeking more flexibility, pursuing an online bachelor’s degree in counseling is another way to prepare for advanced study and future licensure.
Here are a few schools in New Mexico with CACREP-accredited counseling programs:
- New Mexico Highlands University: M.A. in Rehabilitation Counseling
- New Mexico State University: M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- University of New Mexico: M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.A. in School Counseling
- Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
Click to jump to the full list of New Mexico counseling programs, or consider learning more about one of the below online counseling program currently accepting applicants.
Consider a Featured Online Counseling Program
| School and Program Information | Online Program? Entry Requirements | Course Information |
|---|---|---|
| Walden University
MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
 CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE scores not required |
Mental health counselors play a valuable role in helping people cope with life’s challenges. Walden’s online MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program can help you become the competent, compassionate counselor you know you can be. Learn More |
| Walden University
MS in School Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE scores not required |
School counselors help students overcome obstacles and shape successful futures. Walden’s online MS in School Counseling program will give you a solid foundation in school counseling theories, approaches, and best practices while enabling you to gain hands-on experience. Learn More |
| Northwestern University
Online MA in Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE Not Required Bachelor's Required |
Prepare to pursue licensure in as few as 18 months Learn MoreFull-time, part-time, and accelerated track options available |
| Northwestern University
Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy
COAMFTE Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE Not Required Bachelor's Required |
The COAMFTE-accredited MFT@Northwestern is offered by The Family Institute at Northwestern University. Full-time students can complete the program in as few as 21 months. No GRE is required, but applicants must hold an undergraduate degree. Full and part-time tracks available. Learn More |
| Grand Canyon University
Master's Degree in Counseling
HLC and NASAC Accredited |
✔ Online
|
Clinical Mental Health Counseling master's degree emphases include: Childhood and Adolescence Disorders, Christian Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, and Trauma. Designed to meet the academic requirements of the National Board for Certified Counselors for the National Certified Counselor credential, the Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor credential and the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners. As a private university, GCU has the same in-state and out-of-state tuition. Learn More |
| Liberty University
MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
Online with required intensives |
Our CACREP-accredited master’s in counseling degree online can help you become an ethical, well-trained mental health counselor with the knowledge, values, and skills you need to empower others to make positive changes in their lives. Online and on campus. Training Champions for Christ since 1971. Learn More |
| National University
Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
WSCUC Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE Scores Not Required |
The Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is focused on training highly skilled counselors to provide impactful and culturally sensitive mental health services in their communities. Learn More |
| University of Denver
Master of Arts in School Counseling
Designed to adhere to CACREP standards |
✔ Online
No GRE Required; Minimum GPA 2.5 Required |
Earn a Master’s degree in School Counseling online from the University of Denver. Learn from doctoral-level faculty in live classes and gain experience through mock counseling and in-field training. No GRE required. Complete in as few as 24 months. Learn More |
| Mid-America Christian University (MACU)
Master of Science (MS) in Counseling
Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
✔ Online
100% Online |
Expand your impact with an online counseling degree rooted in faith-based practice. Mid-America Christian University offers the largest Master of Science (MS) in Counseling program in Oklahoma, with emphasis areas in addiction and substance abuse, applied behavioral science, clinical mental health counseling, and marriage and family therapy. Explore the online MS in Counseling at MACU. Learn More |
*Sponsored Counseling Programs
Graduate Counseling Programs in New Mexico
Graduate education is the essential step toward becoming a licensed counselor, and New Mexico offers strong options at both the master’s and doctoral levels. Many of the state’s programs are CACREP-accredited, ensuring they meet rigorous professional standards.
Students may also explore flexible learning opportunities such as CACREP-accredited counseling programs, an online master’s degree in counseling, or even an online master’s in counseling with no GRE. For those considering careers in research or academia, online counseling PhD programs are also available.
| Institution | City | Specialty | Degree | Online Options? |
| New Mexico Highlands University | Rio Rancho | Rehabilitation Counseling | M.A. | |
| New Mexico Highlands University | Rio Rancho | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. | |
| New Mexico Highlands University | Rio Rancho | Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling | M.A. | |
| New Mexico Highlands University | Rio Rancho | School Counseling | M.A. | |
| New Mexico State University | Las Cruces | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. | |
| University of New Mexico | Albuquerque | School Counseling | M.A. | |
| University of New Mexico | Albuquerque | Counselor Education and Supervision | Ph.D. | |
| University of New Mexico | Albuquerque | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. | |
| University of the Southwest | Hobbs | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. | Y |
| Western New Mexico University | Silver City | Addiction Counseling | M.A. | Y |
| Western New Mexico University | Silver City | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. | Y |
| Western New Mexico University | Silver City | Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling | M.A. | Y |
| Western New Mexico University | Silver City | School Counseling | M.A. | Y |
Snapshot: Online CACREP Accredited Programs
For detailed degree information, view the guides to:
Online CACREP Accredited programs | Online MPCAC Accredited programs
Top New Mexico Schools with Counseling Programs
The following institutions represent some of the best options in New Mexico for students interested in pursuing counseling degrees. Of course, “best” is subjective — the right program depends on your goals, budget, and preferred learning environment. Use this list as a starting point for your research.
University of New Mexico
Featured Program: M.A. in Counseling
The University of New Mexico’s Master of Arts in Counseling program, offered through the Counselor Education program in the Department of Individual, Family & Community Education, prepares students to become professional counselors through a competency-based, practitioner model. The program emphasizes direct service delivery, supervised practicum and internship experiences, and coursework grounded in counseling theory, ethics, multicultural competence, and research-informed practice. Students are trained to provide assessment, intervention, and advocacy services for children, adults, families, and groups across diverse community and clinical settings. The program meets professional licensure requirements in New Mexico; students seeking licensure in other states are advised to consult local requirements.
About the University of New Mexico
Founded in 1889, the University of New Mexico (UNM) is the state’s flagship public research institution, located in Albuquerque. UNM enrolls a diverse student body of over 25,000 learners and is classified among R1: Doctoral Universities for very high research activity. Through its College of Education and Human Sciences and other academic divisions, UNM is recognized for its commitment to educational access, community engagement, and innovation. Its central location and strong ties to New Mexico’s communities make it a leader in preparing graduates for professional service and leadership roles statewide and beyond.
New Mexico State University
Featured Program: M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
The Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) at New Mexico State University prepares students to become licensed clinical mental health counselors through a curriculum grounded in theory, ethics, multicultural competence, and applied practice. Housed in the Department of Counseling and Educational Psychology within the College of Health, Education, and Social Transformation, the program emphasizes face-to-face instruction, with some hybrid coursework available. Students complete rigorous coursework and supervised field experiences that equip them to provide counseling services across diverse mental health settings, including hospitals, agencies, and private practice. Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), the program boasts strong outcomes, with a 98% graduation rate, 100% comprehensive exam pass rate, and 100% employment rate within 180 days for actively seeking graduates.
About New Mexico State University
Founded in 1888, New Mexico State University (NMSU) is a comprehensive public research institution located in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Serving a diverse student body across multiple campuses, NMSU is recognized as a Hispanic-Serving Institution and is committed to access, inclusion, and community engagement. The university offers a broad range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs and is known for its research and outreach efforts that address critical needs across the Southwest and beyond. Through its College of Health, Education, and Social Transformation, NMSU continues its mission of preparing graduates to lead in service-oriented professions.
Walden University - MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Walden University - MS in School Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Northwestern University - Online MA in Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Northwestern University - Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy (COAMFTE Accredited)
Grand Canyon University - Master's Degree in Counseling (NASAC Accredited)
Liberty University - MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited) (CACREP Accredited)
National University - Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (WSCUC Accredited)
University of Denver - Master of Arts in School Counseling
Mid-America Christian University (MACU) - Master of Science (MS) in Counseling (Higher Learning Commission (HLC) Accredited)
How to Become a Licensed Counselor in New Mexico
Counseling in New Mexico is regulated by the Counseling and Therapy Practice Board. To become a Licensed Professional Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LPCC)—the credential that permits independent practice—you must meet specific education, experience, and examination requirements outlined in state law.
Steps to Licensure
- Earn a graduate degree in counseling or a closely related field. Your program must include at least 48 graduate semester hours (or 72 quarter hours) in a defined clinical counseling curriculum, with required practicum and internship experience.
- Complete supervised clinical experience. After your degree, you must accumulate 3,000 hours of postgraduate counseling practice over a minimum of two years. Up to 1,000 hours from internship or practicum may count toward this total. At least 100 hours must be face-to-face supervision.
- Pass the required exam. The Board requires a nationally recognized counseling examination for LPCC licensure.
- Apply for licensure. Submit your application with transcripts, documentation of supervised hours, exam results, and required fees.
- Maintain your license. Continuing education is required to renew your license and stay in good standing with the Board.
For those considering the counseling profession more broadly, explore resources on how to become a counselor, the LPC role, and step-by-step guidance on how to become an LPC.
For the most current rules and application details, visit the New Mexico Counseling & Therapy Practice Board.
Counseling Licensure Titles in New Mexico
New Mexico regulates counseling through the Counseling and Therapy Practice Board, which recognizes several counseling-related licenses. The primary titles include:
- Licensed Professional Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LPCC): The full counseling license in New Mexico, permitting independent practice, including assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders.
- Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC): A provisional license for graduates who have completed a qualifying degree and are working under supervision to gain the clinical experience required for LPCC status.
Other counseling and therapy credentials regulated in New Mexico include:
- Licensed Professional Art Therapist (LPAT): For practitioners using art therapy in clinical mental health settings.
- Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor (LADAC): For professionals who specialize in treating substance use disorders.
- School Counselor License: Administered separately through the New Mexico Public Education Department, this certification allows professionals to work in K–12 educational settings.
These licensure pathways give students and professionals flexibility to specialize in the areas of counseling that best match their career goals.
Transferring a Counseling License to New Mexico
Counselors who hold an active license in another state may be eligible for licensure in New Mexico through a process called licensure by reciprocity or endorsement. The Counseling and Therapy Practice Board reviews applications to determine if the education, supervised experience, and exam requirements from another state are substantially equivalent to New Mexico’s standards.
Applicants generally need to provide:
- Verification of a current, unrestricted license in another state.
- Official transcripts showing completion of a qualifying graduate degree.
- Documentation of supervised clinical experience.
- Proof of passing a board-approved national counseling examination.
- A completed application and payment of applicable fees.
If your prior state’s requirements do not align fully with New Mexico’s, you may be asked to complete additional coursework, supervised practice, or examinations before receiving full licensure.
For complete instructions, visit the New Mexico Counseling & Therapy Practice Board.
Counseling Scholarships and Financial Aid in New Mexico
Students pursuing counseling degrees in New Mexico can access a range of scholarships and grants to help offset tuition and related expenses. Opportunities include both statewide programs and university-based support.
- Graduate Scholarship: Offered through the New Mexico Higher Education Department, this program supports graduate enrollment among underrepresented groups. Eligible New Mexico residents enrolled in at least six credit hours per semester may qualify.
- Student Incentive Grant (NMSIG): A state grant for New Mexico residents with significant financial need who are attending public or tribal colleges.
- New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship: Provides tuition-free access at public institutions for qualified residents, helping reduce costs for undergraduate pathways that lead into counseling careers.
- New Mexico State University Scholarships: NMSU offers a variety of scholarships for graduate and undergraduate students, including those enrolled in counseling programs.
- New Mexico Highlands University Graduate Scholarship Program: Designed to support graduate students—particularly in-state students from underrepresented groups—this program provides financial assistance and may include stipends.
By combining state-level programs with institutional aid, counseling students in New Mexico can reduce financial barriers and focus on their professional training.
Counseling Job Outlook and Salary in New Mexico
Understanding the career landscape is an important step when considering a counseling degree. The data in the following table was gathered from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2025 and provides insights into employment trends and average salaries for counseling professionals in New Mexico.
| Median Annual Wage in New Mexico (May 2024) | Median Annual Wage Nationally (May 2024) | Projected Growth in New Mexico (2022–2032) | Projected National Growth (2022–2032) | |
| Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors | $70,770 | $59,190 | 34.3% | 18.4% |
| Rehabilitation Counselors | $51,540 | $46,110 | 7.7% | 1.9% |
| Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors | $76,490 | $65,140 | 11.3% | 5.4% |
| Marriage and Family Therapists | $67,990 | $63,780 | 26.1% | 14.9% |
| Counselors, Other | NA | $49,830 | NA | 17.3% |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need a master’s degree to become a licensed counselor in New Mexico?
Yes. New Mexico requires at least a master’s degree in counseling or a closely related field to qualify for licensure as a Licensed Professional Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LPCC).
What are the main counseling licenses in New Mexico?
The primary counseling licenses are the Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), which allows graduates to practice under supervision, and the Licensed Professional Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LPCC), which permits independent practice.
How many supervised hours are required for LPCC licensure?
Applicants must complete 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience after earning their degree, including at least 100 hours of direct supervision.
Which exam is required for counselor licensure in New Mexico?
Applicants must pass a board-approved national counseling examination as part of the licensing process.
Can I transfer my counseling license from another state?
Yes. New Mexico allows licensure by reciprocity or endorsement if your current license was earned under requirements substantially equivalent to the state’s standards.
Are there online counseling degree options for New Mexico students?
Yes. In addition to local universities, New Mexico students may pursue accredited online counseling programs, which can help them meet state licensure requirements.
Making a Counseling Career in New Mexico
New Mexico offers meaningful opportunities for aspiring counselors. With graduate programs rooted in cultural competence, a structured licensure process, and ongoing efforts to expand access to behavioral health services, the state provides a strong foundation for entering the counseling profession.
Counselors here may work in diverse environments—rural clinics, urban hospitals, schools, tribal communities, and private practices. The state’s focus on addressing mental health needs across underserved areas makes counseling not only a viable career path but also a chance to make a lasting impact.
For students committed to helping others, New Mexico is a place where a counseling career can be both rewarding and impactful.
Popular Online Counseling Programs
Walden University 🗹 Online Masters
Walden University 🗹 Online Masters
Northwestern University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Northwestern University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Grand Canyon University 🗹 Online
Liberty University 🗹 Online
National University 🗹 Online Courses Start Weekly
University of Denver 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Mid-America Christian University (MACU) 🗹 Online
Colorado Christian University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Schools With Campus-Based CACREP Accredited New Mexico Counseling Degrees
CACREP (Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs) is the top accrediting board for counseling programs.
Below, you will find a list of all of the CACREP accredited counseling programs in New Mexico. Keep scrolling or jump to all programs for all programs or view online CACREP accredited counseling programs.
New Mexico Highlands University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/1/2017 to 10/31/2020
New Mexico State University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 5/1/1998 to 3/31/2023
University of New Mexico
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year (Re-Accreditation In-Process)
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/11/2012 to 10/31/2020
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year (Re-Accreditation In-Process)
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 4/1/1981 to 10/31/2020
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year (Re-Accreditation In-Process)
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 9/1/1996 to 10/31/2020
All Accredited Schools with Counseling Degrees in New Mexico
View all programs in New Mexico below, or jump to all New Mexico CACREP accredited counseling programs.
New Mexico Highlands University Rio Rancho
- M.A. in Rehabilitation Counseling
New Mexico State University Las Cruces
- M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
New Mexico State University-Main Campus Las Cruces
- Doctorate - School Counseling
Northern New Mexico College Espanola
- Associates - Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling
University of New Mexico Albuquerque
- M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.A. in School Counseling
- Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
University of New Mexico-Main Campus Albuquerque
- Doctorate - School Counseling
Western New Mexico University Silver City
- Bachelors - Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling
