New Mexico Register / Volume XXXVI, Issue 19 / October 7, 2025

This is an amendment to 16.63.10 NMAC, Sections 2, 3, 8, and 9, effective 10/07/2025.

6.63.10.2 SCOPE: All [baccalaureate social workers,] master social workers[, and independent social workers].

[16.63.10.2 NMAC - Rp, 16.63.10.2 NMAC, 3/13/2022; A, 10/07/2025]

16.63.10.3 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: These parts are promulgated pursuant to the Social Work Practice Act, [Section 61-31- 8A, 14-2-1, 61-31-19] Section 61-31-1 to 25, NMSA 1978.

[16.63.10.3 NMAC - Rp, 16.63.10.3 NMAC, 3/13/2022; A, 10/07/2025]

16.63.10.8 QUALIFICATION FOR LICENSURE: Applicants for licensure as master social worker must:

A. be at least 18 years of age;

B. possess a master's degree in social work from a graduate program of social work accredited by the council on social work education;

C. successfully pass the [association of social work board] ASWB examination and the jurisprudence examination;

D. documents completion of the required course in New Mexico cultures.

E. provide proof of any disqualifying criminal convictions as defined in 16.63.13.9 NMAC.

[16.63.10.8 NMAC – Rp, 16.63.10.8 NMAC, 3/13/2022; A, 10/07/2025]

16.63.10.9 [PARAMETERS] SCOPE OF PRACTICE:

A. The [licensed master social worker ("LMSW")] LMSW provides a wide range of services. The LMSW has preparation as a generalist social worker, as found in the LBSW level in addition to specialization in either direct or indirect services such as work in a field of practice or with a specific population.

B. The LMSW may provide diagnostic, preventive and treatment services. The [practice of master’s social work means the application of] LMSW may apply social work theory, knowledge, methods and ethics and the professional use of self to restore or enhance social, psychosocial, or biopsychosocial functioning of individuals, couples, families, groups, organizations and communities. [Master’s social work] LMSW practice [requires] includes the application of specialized knowledge and advanced practice skills in the areas of assessment, treatment planning, implementation and evaluation, case management, information and referral, counseling, supervision, consultation, education, research, advocacy, community organization and the development, implementation and administration of policies, programs and activities;[ The practice of master’s social] its work may include the practice of clinical social work under appropriate clinical social work supervision. The LMSW is able to explain and interpret the results of psychosocial evaluations in the problem-solving process. The LMSW is able to supervise LBSWs and practice in the areas of social work administration, community organization and policy analysis.

C. The LMSW may not practice independently as a private practitioner.

[16.63.10.9 NMAC - Rp, 16.63.10.9 NMAC, 3/13/2022; A, 10/07/2025]