New Mexico Register / Volume XXXVII, Issue 11 / June 9, 2026

This is an amendment to 16.27.2 NMAC, adding Section 9, effective 06/09/2026.

16.27.2.9 ALTERATIVE PATHWAY FOR DEFICIENT INTERNSHIP/PRACTICUM HOURS:

A. An applicant may qualify for licensure under this section if the applicant:

(1) holds an independent clinical license, in good standing, issued by another U.S. jurisdiction for a minimum of one year immediately preceding the application;

(2) has no current disciplinary action, unresolved complaint, or pending investigation in any other jurisdiction;

(3) Completed a graduate degree in counseling, marriage and family therapy, art therapy, or another behavioral health discipline recognized by the board, but did not complete the practicum or internship hours required for initial licensure in New Mexico; and

(4) demonstrates professional experience substantially equivalent to practicum or internship.

B. Applicants under this section shall submit:

(1) a completed application and required fees;

(2) official verification of independent licensure from all jurisdictions in which the applicant has been licensed;

(3) a written attestation of competency signed by a supervisor, employer, or professional colleague familiar with the applicant’s work.

C. This section applies only to applicants whose sole deficiency is lack of qualifying practicum or internship hours. Applicant must still meet all other educational, ethical, jurisprudence examination requirements. This section shall not apply to applicants with disciplinary history indicating risk to public safety.

[16.27.2.9 NMAC – N, 06/09/2026]