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New Mexico Marriage & Family Therapy — Requirements & Free Practice

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Emergency Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)

Emergency licensure for a licensed therapist affected by a federally declared disaster.

Licensing authority: New Mexico Counseling and Therapy Practice Board · Application information

Emergency licensure following a federally declared disaster
AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination
Documentation waiver
The Board may waive specified verification forms, transcripts and core curriculum documentation unavailable because of the disaster; it does not waive the underlying qualifications.
Eligibility
Applicant affected by a federally declared disaster, currently licensed as a therapist in another jurisdiction, in good standing, and otherwise qualified for New Mexico LMFT licensure.
Examination
Part 21.8(E) requires the Board approved examination; Part 6 identifies the marital and family therapy examination. Prior approved passage can satisfy it under 16.27.15.13(B).
Initial documents
Age at least 21, signed ethics agreement, application, government identification, sworn affidavit explaining unavailable documentation and verification of current licensure. No initial cost.
Initial window
Apply during the four months following the federally declared disaster.
Renewal
Expires September 30 unless renewed; renewal requires the documents and $75 application fee in 16.27.21.8(D), including full qualification evidence.
Emergency license renewal
AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination
Documentation waiver
The Board may waive specified verification forms, transcripts and core curriculum documentation unavailable because of the disaster; it does not waive the underlying qualifications.
Eligibility
Applicant affected by a federally declared disaster, currently licensed as a therapist in another jurisdiction, in good standing, and otherwise qualified for New Mexico LMFT licensure.
Examination
Part 21.8(E) requires the Board approved examination; Part 6 identifies the marital and family therapy examination. Prior approved passage can satisfy it under 16.27.15.13(B).
Initial documents
Age at least 21, signed ethics agreement, application, government identification, sworn affidavit explaining unavailable documentation and verification of current licensure. No initial cost.
Initial window
Apply during the four months following the federally declared disaster.
Renewal
Expires September 30 unless renewed; renewal requires the documents and $75 application fee in 16.27.21.8(D), including full qualification evidence.

Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LAMFT)

Associate marriage and family therapy license requiring clinical supervision. Expedited provisional, retired and inactive statuses retain this license identity.

Licensing authority: New Mexico Counseling and Therapy Practice Board · Application information

Entry level licensure by examination
AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination
Age
At least 21 years old.
Application period
Application valid for at most 12 months; after that a new application, documentation and application fee are required.
Clinical supervision
Arrange appropriate clinical supervision and a postgraduate experience plan, including one hour of face-to-face supervision per five client contact hours; the supervisor must hold the Board supervision designation. All work remains under clinical supervision; no time limit on the associate license.
Degree
Accredited master's or doctoral degree satisfying the marriage and family clinical core curriculum. Section 61-9A-12.1 requires a focus in marriage and family therapy or counseling; 16.27.22.9 describes an accredited counseling-related degree.
Documentation
Attested online application, $75 application fee, official degree transcript or the authorized completion-letter/transcript-order substitute, supervision plan (Attachment C), and marriage and family core curriculum (Attachment D).
Ethics
Sign the statement agreeing to the Board code of ethics.
Prior exam passage
An applicant with prior approved examination passage and a valid license in another jurisdiction is not required to retest under 16.27.15.13(B).
Expedited licensure by credentials
AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination
Application
Completed signed application, licensure verification and applicable application fee; complete eligible applications are processed within 30 days, subject to Board review of possible denial grounds.
Current license
Current unrestricted license in good standing in the same licensure level; the general expedited route requires an eligible jurisdiction under 16.27.24.8.
Degree
Accredited master's or doctoral degree in counseling or a counseling-related field.
Discipline
No pending or brought disciplinary action in the preceding two years; no disqualifying criminal conviction under the Board rules.
Duration
Part 24 permits alignment with the renewal cycle: greater than 12 months but less than 24 months; the statute permits the Board to lengthen the ordinary one-year provisional term by rule.
Eligible jurisdiction
The applicant must hold the matching license level in a jurisdiction accepted for LAMFT by 16.27.24.8; no foreign jurisdictions are listed in 16.27.24.9.
Exam timing
If the originating jurisdiction did not require the examination normally required in New Mexico, 16.27.24.12(B) requires passage before renewal. Previously passed examinations need not be retaken under 16.27.15.13(B).
Practice rule
16.27.24.7(G)(4) describes practice as a licensed professional for two consecutive years immediately before application without repeating the New Mexico location requirement.
Practice statute
NMSA 1978 § 61-9A-22(A)(4) states: "has practiced in New Mexico for at least two years immediately prior to application". This statutory condition controls the general credentials route.
Provisional status
Expedited issuance is a provisional license conferring the same rights, privileges and responsibilities as a regular license at the same licensure level.
Expedited licensure for military service members, spouses, dependents and veterans
AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination
Application
Signed complete application, current-license proof and the corresponding military orders, marriage/dependency records or honorable-discharge records. No initial or renewal licensing fee for the first three years.
Current license
Current unrestricted license in good standing in the same licensure level; the general expedited route requires an eligible jurisdiction under 16.27.24.8.
Degree
Accredited master's or doctoral degree in counseling or a counseling-related field.
Discipline
No pending or brought disciplinary action in the preceding two years; no disqualifying criminal conviction under the Board rules.
Duration
Part 24 permits alignment with the renewal cycle: greater than 12 months but less than 24 months; the statute permits the Board to lengthen the ordinary one-year provisional term by rule.
Eligible jurisdiction
16.27.24.7(G)(1) exempts military service members and veterans from the eligible-jurisdiction restriction applicable to the general expedited route.
Exam timing
If the originating jurisdiction did not require the examination normally required in New Mexico, 16.27.24.12(B) requires passage before renewal. Previously passed examinations need not be retaken under 16.27.15.13(B).
Military qualification
Military service member, eligible spouse or surviving spouse, dependent child, or honorably discharged or separated veteran under NMSA 1978 § 61-1-34; current good-standing license may be from another jurisdiction including a branch of the United States armed forces.
Practice rule
Part 24 defines a qualified applicant as having practiced as a licensed professional for two consecutive years immediately before application; submit the documentary proof required by 16.27.24.11.
Provisional status
Expedited issuance is a provisional license conferring the same rights, privileges and responsibilities as a regular license at the same licensure level.
Renewal of expedited provisional license and conversion to regular license
AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination
Examination condition
The national examination must be passed before renewal if it was not required by the originating licensing jurisdiction; otherwise prior passage satisfies the examination relationship.
License status
Holder of an expedited provisional license at the same level.
Military fees
The first three years of licensing fees are waived for qualifying military applicants.
Renewal
Meet the regular renewal requirements in 16.27.3.13 and 16.27.16; on renewal the Board issues a regular license.
Reapplication after expiration beyond the grace period
AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination
Age
At least 21 years old.
Application period
Application valid for at most 12 months; after that a new application, documentation and application fee are required.
Clinical supervision
Arrange appropriate clinical supervision and a postgraduate experience plan, including one hour of face-to-face supervision per five client contact hours; the supervisor must hold the Board supervision designation. All work remains under clinical supervision; no time limit on the associate license.
Degree
Accredited master's or doctoral degree satisfying the marriage and family clinical core curriculum. Section 61-9A-12.1 requires a focus in marriage and family therapy or counseling; 16.27.22.9 describes an accredited counseling-related degree.
Documentation
Attested online application, $75 application fee, official degree transcript or the authorized completion-letter/transcript-order substitute, supervision plan (Attachment C), and marriage and family core curriculum (Attachment D).
Ethics
Sign the statement agreeing to the Board code of ethics.
Expired license
License expired after the 30-day grace period; submit a new complete application and fees and meet current initial licensure standards under NMSA 1978 § 61-9A-23(D) and 16.27.3.13(C).
Prior exam passage
An applicant with prior approved examination passage and a valid license in another jurisdiction is not required to retest under 16.27.15.13(B).
Placement in inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Examination basis
The complete inactive-status provisions in 16.27.3.12 specify the request, renewal fee and, for restoration, continuing education, without an examination.
Practice
Nonpracticing status; inactive licensure can continue with timely biennial status renewal.
Request
Request status change in the online portal before active or retired status expires.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Biennial renewal of inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
No continuing education required while inactive.
Examination basis
The complete inactive-status provisions in 16.27.3.12 specify the request, renewal fee and, for restoration, continuing education, without an examination.
Renewal
Renew inactive status every two years and pay the requisite fee.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Restoration from inactive to active status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Meet current continuing education requirements under 16.27.16.8.
Examination basis
The complete inactive-status provisions in 16.27.3.12 specify the request, renewal fee and, for restoration, continuing education, without an examination.
Fees
Pay the required fee following Board instructions.
Request
Submit an email request to the Board.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Late renewal within the 30 day grace period
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
40 CEUs during the expiring cycle, including 12 in counseling and therapy ethics; first renewal requires 20 CEUs including six ethics hours under 16.27.3.13. Supervisors also complete nine supervision CEUs.
Continuing education evidence
Document completion at renewal, retain records, and comply with audit and disciplinary provisions of 16.27.16.10-.11 as amended November 18, 2025.
Examination basis
The complete regular renewal requirements in 16.27.3.13 NMAC require application, fees, the health professions survey and continuing education, with no examination. Expedited renewal has its own examination route.
Health survey
Complete the mandatory University of New Mexico health professions survey.
Late fee
Complete all ordinary renewal requirements and pay the additional $100 late fee by October 31. Refrain from practice while expired; payment and continuing education compliance permit resumption.
License status
Regular active license; this route excludes the initial renewal of an expedited license subject to 16.27.24.12(B).
Renewal application
Submit a completed renewal application and renewal fee by September 30 of the renewal year.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Regular biennial active license renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
40 CEUs during the expiring cycle, including 12 in counseling and therapy ethics; first renewal requires 20 CEUs including six ethics hours under 16.27.3.13. Supervisors also complete nine supervision CEUs.
Continuing education evidence
Document completion at renewal, retain records, and comply with audit and disciplinary provisions of 16.27.16.10-.11 as amended November 18, 2025.
Examination basis
The complete regular renewal requirements in 16.27.3.13 NMAC require application, fees, the health professions survey and continuing education, with no examination. Expedited renewal has its own examination route.
Health survey
Complete the mandatory University of New Mexico health professions survey.
License status
Regular active license; this route excludes the initial renewal of an expedited license subject to 16.27.24.12(B).
Renewal application
Submit a completed renewal application and renewal fee by September 30 of the renewal year.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Placement in retirement status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Examination basis
Section 61-9A-23(E) and 16.27.3.11(A) provide retirement upon notice, without an examination.
License status
Current license; request retirement in writing before expiration.
Practice
Retirement is a nonpracticing status; restoration or a subsequent inactive-status request is required to retain the license beyond the authorized retirement period.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Restoration from retirement within five years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Provide 40 hours during the retirement period as stated on the Board licensing page and comply with the Board required continuing education courses.
Examination basis
The defining restoration provision, NMSA 1978 § 61-9A-23(E), requires notice, continuing education and fees, without examination; amended 16.27.3.11 implements it.
Fees
Pay required renewal and reinstatement fees as directed.
Request
Notify the Board by email in writing and provide proof of required continuing education; the Board sends fee-payment instructions.
Retirement period
Restore within five years of placement in retirement.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)

Independent marriage and family therapy license. Expedited provisional, retired and inactive statuses retain this license identity and are represented in the relevant routes and conditions.

Licensing authority: New Mexico Counseling and Therapy Practice Board · Application information

Licensure by examination
AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination
Age
At least 21 years old.
Application
Attested online application, $75 application fee, official transcripts, supervisor verification (Attachment B), education and training verification, and verification of previous licensure when applicable. A university completion letter and transcript-order receipt may substitute temporarily when the degree has not yet been conferred; unavailable foreign transcripts and unavailable supervisor statements require the supporting documents specified by 16.27.6.11.
Application period
Application valid for at most 12 months; after that a new application, documentation and application fee are required.
Client contact
At least 1,000 postgraduate clinical client contact hours.
Curriculum
45 semester hours or 67.5 quarter hours: marriage and family studies 9/12; marriage and family therapy 9/12; human development 9/12; multicultural studies 3/4; professional studies 3/4; research 3/4; supervised practicum 6/8, including at least 300 direct client contact hours over at least 12 months; remaining credits are related electives.
Degree
Accredited master's or doctoral degree focused in marriage and family therapy meeting the marriage and family therapy core curriculum.
Ethics
Sign the statement agreeing to the Board code of ethics.
Postgraduate experience
At least two years of postgraduate marriage and family therapy experience.
Prior exam passage
16.27.15.13(B) states that a previously successful applicant need not retest while holding a current valid license from another jurisdiction. The currently offered national examination remains a leaf.
Supervision
200 hours of appropriate postgraduate supervision, including at least 100 individual hours. Supervised contact hours obtained more than five years before submission for independent LMFT licensure are invalid unless the license has been continuously maintained in good standing (16.27.22.8(D), as amended November 18, 2025).
Expedited licensure by credentials
AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination
Application
Completed signed application, licensure verification and applicable application fee; complete eligible applications are processed within 30 days, subject to Board review of possible denial grounds.
Current license
Current unrestricted license in good standing in the same licensure level; the general expedited route requires an eligible jurisdiction under 16.27.24.8.
Degree
Accredited master's or doctoral degree in counseling or a counseling-related field.
Discipline
No pending or brought disciplinary action in the preceding two years; no disqualifying criminal conviction under the Board rules.
Duration
Part 24 permits alignment with the renewal cycle: greater than 12 months but less than 24 months; the statute permits the Board to lengthen the ordinary one-year provisional term by rule.
Eligible jurisdiction
The applicant must hold the matching license level in a jurisdiction accepted for LMFT by 16.27.24.8; no foreign jurisdictions are listed in 16.27.24.9.
Exam timing
If the originating jurisdiction did not require the examination normally required in New Mexico, 16.27.24.12(B) requires passage before renewal. Previously passed examinations need not be retaken under 16.27.15.13(B).
Practice rule
16.27.24.7(G)(4) describes practice as a licensed professional for two consecutive years immediately before application without repeating the New Mexico location requirement.
Practice statute
NMSA 1978 § 61-9A-22(A)(4) states: "has practiced in New Mexico for at least two years immediately prior to application". This statutory condition controls the general credentials route.
Provisional status
Expedited issuance is a provisional license conferring the same rights, privileges and responsibilities as a regular license at the same licensure level.
Expedited licensure for military service members, spouses, dependents and veterans
AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination
Application
Signed complete application, current-license proof and the corresponding military orders, marriage/dependency records or honorable-discharge records. No initial or renewal licensing fee for the first three years.
Current license
Current unrestricted license in good standing in the same licensure level; the general expedited route requires an eligible jurisdiction under 16.27.24.8.
Degree
Accredited master's or doctoral degree in counseling or a counseling-related field.
Discipline
No pending or brought disciplinary action in the preceding two years; no disqualifying criminal conviction under the Board rules.
Duration
Part 24 permits alignment with the renewal cycle: greater than 12 months but less than 24 months; the statute permits the Board to lengthen the ordinary one-year provisional term by rule.
Eligible jurisdiction
16.27.24.7(G)(1) exempts military service members and veterans from the eligible-jurisdiction restriction applicable to the general expedited route.
Exam timing
If the originating jurisdiction did not require the examination normally required in New Mexico, 16.27.24.12(B) requires passage before renewal. Previously passed examinations need not be retaken under 16.27.15.13(B).
Military qualification
Military service member, eligible spouse or surviving spouse, dependent child, or honorably discharged or separated veteran under NMSA 1978 § 61-1-34; current good-standing license may be from another jurisdiction including a branch of the United States armed forces.
Practice rule
Part 24 defines a qualified applicant as having practiced as a licensed professional for two consecutive years immediately before application; submit the documentary proof required by 16.27.24.11.
Provisional status
Expedited issuance is a provisional license conferring the same rights, privileges and responsibilities as a regular license at the same licensure level.
Renewal of expedited provisional license and conversion to regular license
AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination
Examination condition
The national examination must be passed before renewal if it was not required by the originating licensing jurisdiction; otherwise prior passage satisfies the examination relationship.
License status
Holder of an expedited provisional license at the same level.
Military fees
The first three years of licensing fees are waived for qualifying military applicants.
Renewal
Meet the regular renewal requirements in 16.27.3.13 and 16.27.16; on renewal the Board issues a regular license.
Reapplication after expiration beyond the grace period
AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination
Age
At least 21 years old.
Application
Attested online application, $75 application fee, official transcripts, supervisor verification (Attachment B), education and training verification, and verification of previous licensure when applicable. A university completion letter and transcript-order receipt may substitute temporarily when the degree has not yet been conferred; unavailable foreign transcripts and unavailable supervisor statements require the supporting documents specified by 16.27.6.11.
Application period
Application valid for at most 12 months; after that a new application, documentation and application fee are required.
Client contact
At least 1,000 postgraduate clinical client contact hours.
Curriculum
45 semester hours or 67.5 quarter hours: marriage and family studies 9/12; marriage and family therapy 9/12; human development 9/12; multicultural studies 3/4; professional studies 3/4; research 3/4; supervised practicum 6/8, including at least 300 direct client contact hours over at least 12 months; remaining credits are related electives.
Degree
Accredited master's or doctoral degree focused in marriage and family therapy meeting the marriage and family therapy core curriculum.
Ethics
Sign the statement agreeing to the Board code of ethics.
Expired license
License expired after the 30-day grace period; submit a new complete application and fees and meet current initial licensure standards under NMSA 1978 § 61-9A-23(D) and 16.27.3.13(C).
Postgraduate experience
At least two years of postgraduate marriage and family therapy experience.
Prior exam passage
16.27.15.13(B) states that a previously successful applicant need not retest while holding a current valid license from another jurisdiction. The currently offered national examination remains a leaf.
Supervision
200 hours of appropriate postgraduate supervision, including at least 100 individual hours. Supervised contact hours obtained more than five years before submission for independent LMFT licensure are invalid unless the license has been continuously maintained in good standing (16.27.22.8(D), as amended November 18, 2025).
Placement in inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Examination basis
The complete inactive-status provisions in 16.27.3.12 specify the request, renewal fee and, for restoration, continuing education, without an examination.
Practice
Nonpracticing status; inactive licensure can continue with timely biennial status renewal.
Request
Request status change in the online portal before active or retired status expires.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Biennial renewal of inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
No continuing education required while inactive.
Examination basis
The complete inactive-status provisions in 16.27.3.12 specify the request, renewal fee and, for restoration, continuing education, without an examination.
Renewal
Renew inactive status every two years and pay the requisite fee.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Restoration from inactive to active status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Meet current continuing education requirements under 16.27.16.8.
Examination basis
The complete inactive-status provisions in 16.27.3.12 specify the request, renewal fee and, for restoration, continuing education, without an examination.
Fees
Pay the required fee following Board instructions.
Request
Submit an email request to the Board.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Late renewal within the 30 day grace period
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
40 CEUs during the expiring cycle, including 12 in counseling and therapy ethics; first renewal requires 20 CEUs including six ethics hours under 16.27.3.13. Supervisors also complete nine supervision CEUs.
Continuing education evidence
Document completion at renewal, retain records, and comply with audit and disciplinary provisions of 16.27.16.10-.11 as amended November 18, 2025.
Examination basis
The complete regular renewal requirements in 16.27.3.13 NMAC require application, fees, the health professions survey and continuing education, with no examination. Expedited renewal has its own examination route.
Health survey
Complete the mandatory University of New Mexico health professions survey.
Late fee
Complete all ordinary renewal requirements and pay the additional $100 late fee by October 31. Refrain from practice while expired; payment and continuing education compliance permit resumption.
License status
Regular active license; this route excludes the initial renewal of an expedited license subject to 16.27.24.12(B).
Renewal application
Submit a completed renewal application and renewal fee by September 30 of the renewal year.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Regular biennial active license renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
40 CEUs during the expiring cycle, including 12 in counseling and therapy ethics; first renewal requires 20 CEUs including six ethics hours under 16.27.3.13. Supervisors also complete nine supervision CEUs.
Continuing education evidence
Document completion at renewal, retain records, and comply with audit and disciplinary provisions of 16.27.16.10-.11 as amended November 18, 2025.
Examination basis
The complete regular renewal requirements in 16.27.3.13 NMAC require application, fees, the health professions survey and continuing education, with no examination. Expedited renewal has its own examination route.
Health survey
Complete the mandatory University of New Mexico health professions survey.
License status
Regular active license; this route excludes the initial renewal of an expedited license subject to 16.27.24.12(B).
Renewal application
Submit a completed renewal application and renewal fee by September 30 of the renewal year.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Placement in retirement status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Examination basis
Section 61-9A-23(E) and 16.27.3.11(A) provide retirement upon notice, without an examination.
License status
Current license; request retirement in writing before expiration.
Practice
Retirement is a nonpracticing status; restoration or a subsequent inactive-status request is required to retain the license beyond the authorized retirement period.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Restoration from retirement within five years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Provide 40 hours during the retirement period as stated on the Board licensing page and comply with the Board required continuing education courses.
Examination basis
The defining restoration provision, NMSA 1978 § 61-9A-23(E), requires notice, continuing education and fees, without examination; amended 16.27.3.11 implements it.
Fees
Pay required renewal and reinstatement fees as directed.
Request
Notify the Board by email in writing and provide proof of required continuing education; the Board sends fee-payment instructions.
Retirement period
Restore within five years of placement in retirement.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LAMFT)

Temporary supervised associate practice while completing examination requirements, with controlling statutory limits and the Board stated extension procedure recorded separately.

Licensing authority: New Mexico Counseling and Therapy Practice Board · Application information

Discretionary temporary licensure while the Board verifies qualifications
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board discretion
Under § 61-9A-16(B), notwithstanding subsection A, the Board may issue temporary licensure as it deems necessary to ensure that the applicant meets the Act requirements.
Duration
The statute states a period not exceeding six months or a period necessary for the Board to ensure that qualifications have been met.
Examination basis
The distinct notwithstanding issuance authority in § 61-9A-16(B) makes this temporary issuance dependent on Board discretion and verification, and specifies no examination as a condition of that issuance.
Ordinary license
Obtaining the corresponding ordinary license is governed by that license separate examination route.
Scope
Corresponding marriage and family therapy license type; underlying qualifications are determined by the Board.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Board temporary associate license extension after 1 year
AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination
Board maximum
The amended rule describes a maximum three-year temporary period; further examination approval letters may be issued for the requisite fee after temporary practice ends.
Board procedure
Submit an extension request and a supervisor letter detailing the examination-preparation plan.
Board quote
16.27.14.8 TEMPORARY LICENSES: Temporary mental health counselor licenses (LMHC) and associate marriage and family therapist licenses (LAMFT) shall be granted as follows: A. Will be granted to individuals meeting all educational requirements for the license sought. The temporary license is intended to permit the licensee time to meet examination requirements for the license. The temporary license shall not be valid for more than [ 60 days after the results of the next examination become available ] one year and cannot be renewed . [ (The temporary license must be returned to the board office) ]. Individuals practicing under a temporary license shall not provide supervision. B. A temporary license will be granted for a period not to exceed [ six months ] one year or for a period of time necessary for the board to ensure that the applicant has met licensure requirements as set out in that act. C. [ Effective July 1, 2006, t he ] The board will grant a temporary license and exam approval letter if the applicant has met the educational requirements for licensure in the given field being sought. If the applicant fails the required exam, the board [ shall schedule the applicant to re-take the examination and ] shall re-issue another exam approval letter. The temporary license may be extended upon the following conditions: (1) After one year, the license may be extended upon the receipt of an extension request and a letter from the licensees supervisor detailing the plans to prepare the temporary license holder for the exam. (2) After two years, the license may be extended upon the receipt of an extension request, proof of enrollment in an exam preparation class specific to the requisite exam, and a letter from the licensees supervisor detailing the plans to prepare the temporary license holder for the exam. D. The licensee may not practice when the temporary license expires. [ a second temporary license. If the applicant fails the second exam, the board may re-issue a third temporary license. The board shall not issue more than three temporary licenses. ] Should the applicant [ fail the required examination three times, ] not pass the required exam within the three year temporary license period, the board office shall not issue another temporary license for that [ application for licensing. ] license type. The board office may however, issue further exam approval letters if the applicant pays the requisite fee. E. Upon passing the requisite examination, the applicant holding the temporary LMHC or LAMFT shall be issued the LMHC or LAMFT license so that the applicant may continue to practice under supervision and acquire the requisite clinical hours and supervision for the independent license (LPCC, LMFT, LPAT, or LADAC). [ D. The time and hours acquired under a temporary license shall not expire or become null and void upon a gap in licensure as long as the hours were obtained within the five years preceding the issuance of the LMHC or LAMFT license. E. Upon the expiration of a temporary license, the individual must refrain from practicing until another temporary license or the full license is issued to them. ]
Statutory limit
NMSA 1978 § 61-9A-16(A) states the next-examination/60-day limit and no reissuance after failure. The Board stated extension procedure is retained for applicant information; it cannot displace the controlling statute.
Board temporary associate license extension after 2 years
AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination
Board maximum
The amended rule describes a maximum three-year temporary period; further examination approval letters may be issued for the requisite fee after temporary practice ends.
Board procedure
Submit an extension request, proof of enrollment in an examination-preparation class specific to the requisite exam, and a supervisor letter detailing the preparation plan.
Board quote
16.27.14.8 TEMPORARY LICENSES: Temporary mental health counselor licenses (LMHC) and associate marriage and family therapist licenses (LAMFT) shall be granted as follows: A. Will be granted to individuals meeting all educational requirements for the license sought. The temporary license is intended to permit the licensee time to meet examination requirements for the license. The temporary license shall not be valid for more than [ 60 days after the results of the next examination become available ] one year and cannot be renewed . [ (The temporary license must be returned to the board office) ]. Individuals practicing under a temporary license shall not provide supervision. B. A temporary license will be granted for a period not to exceed [ six months ] one year or for a period of time necessary for the board to ensure that the applicant has met licensure requirements as set out in that act. C. [ Effective July 1, 2006, t he ] The board will grant a temporary license and exam approval letter if the applicant has met the educational requirements for licensure in the given field being sought. If the applicant fails the required exam, the board [ shall schedule the applicant to re-take the examination and ] shall re-issue another exam approval letter. The temporary license may be extended upon the following conditions: (1) After one year, the license may be extended upon the receipt of an extension request and a letter from the licensees supervisor detailing the plans to prepare the temporary license holder for the exam. (2) After two years, the license may be extended upon the receipt of an extension request, proof of enrollment in an exam preparation class specific to the requisite exam, and a letter from the licensees supervisor detailing the plans to prepare the temporary license holder for the exam. D. The licensee may not practice when the temporary license expires. [ a second temporary license. If the applicant fails the second exam, the board may re-issue a third temporary license. The board shall not issue more than three temporary licenses. ] Should the applicant [ fail the required examination three times, ] not pass the required exam within the three year temporary license period, the board office shall not issue another temporary license for that [ application for licensing. ] license type. The board office may however, issue further exam approval letters if the applicant pays the requisite fee. E. Upon passing the requisite examination, the applicant holding the temporary LMHC or LAMFT shall be issued the LMHC or LAMFT license so that the applicant may continue to practice under supervision and acquire the requisite clinical hours and supervision for the independent license (LPCC, LMFT, LPAT, or LADAC). [ D. The time and hours acquired under a temporary license shall not expire or become null and void upon a gap in licensure as long as the hours were obtained within the five years preceding the issuance of the LMHC or LAMFT license. E. Upon the expiration of a temporary license, the individual must refrain from practicing until another temporary license or the full license is issued to them. ]
Statutory limit
NMSA 1978 § 61-9A-16(A) states the next-examination/60-day limit and no reissuance after failure. The Board stated extension procedure is retained for applicant information; it cannot displace the controlling statute.
Temporary licensure pending examination
AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination
Board extension conflict
The November 18, 2025 amendment of 16.27.14.8 states a one-year temporary license and extensions after one and two years, with a maximum three-year temporary period. Those longer terms and reissuance provisions differ from the higher-ranked statute; the statutory limits control the route.
Board extension quote
16.27.14.8 TEMPORARY LICENSES: Temporary mental health counselor licenses (LMHC) and associate marriage and family therapist licenses (LAMFT) shall be granted as follows: A. Will be granted to individuals meeting all educational requirements for the license sought. The temporary license is intended to permit the licensee time to meet examination requirements for the license. The temporary license shall not be valid for more than [ 60 days after the results of the next examination become available ] one year and cannot be renewed . [ (The temporary license must be returned to the board office) ]. Individuals practicing under a temporary license shall not provide supervision. B. A temporary license will be granted for a period not to exceed [ six months ] one year or for a period of time necessary for the board to ensure that the applicant has met licensure requirements as set out in that act. C. [ Effective July 1, 2006, t he ] The board will grant a temporary license and exam approval letter if the applicant has met the educational requirements for licensure in the given field being sought. If the applicant fails the required exam, the board [ shall schedule the applicant to re-take the examination and ] shall re-issue another exam approval letter. The temporary license may be extended upon the following conditions: (1) After one year, the license may be extended upon the receipt of an extension request and a letter from the licensees supervisor detailing the plans to prepare the temporary license holder for the exam. (2) After two years, the license may be extended upon the receipt of an extension request, proof of enrollment in an exam preparation class specific to the requisite exam, and a letter from the licensees supervisor detailing the plans to prepare the temporary license holder for the exam. D. The licensee may not practice when the temporary license expires. [ a second temporary license. If the applicant fails the second exam, the board may re-issue a third temporary license. The board shall not issue more than three temporary licenses. ] Should the applicant [ fail the required examination three times, ] not pass the required exam within the three year temporary license period, the board office shall not issue another temporary license for that [ application for licensing. ] license type. The board office may however, issue further exam approval letters if the applicant pays the requisite fee. E. Upon passing the requisite examination, the applicant holding the temporary LMHC or LAMFT shall be issued the LMHC or LAMFT license so that the applicant may continue to practice under supervision and acquire the requisite clinical hours and supervision for the independent license (LPCC, LMFT, LPAT, or LADAC). [ D. The time and hours acquired under a temporary license shall not expire or become null and void upon a gap in licensure as long as the hours were obtained within the five years preceding the issuance of the LMHC or LAMFT license. E. Upon the expiration of a temporary license, the individual must refrain from practicing until another temporary license or the full license is issued to them. ]
Board rule scope
Part 14 expressly operationalizes temporary LAMFT and LMHC licenses. Section 61-9A-16(A) also expressly lists § 61-9A-12, authorizing the temporary independent marriage and family therapist form.
Controlling term
NMSA 1978 § 61-9A-16(A) limits the temporary term to 60 days after results of the next examination and automatically expires it upon failure to take or pass; the statute states that the temporary license will not then be reissued.
Examination timing
No prior passage is required for initial temporary issuance; the identified national examination remains a leaf because the temporary pathway expressly involves the next examination.
Qualification
Meet the requirements of the corresponding license except examination; the temporary license precedes examination and permits practice while meeting it.
Supervision
The temporary associate must practice under clinical supervision and may not supervise other practitioners.

Temporary license to practice marriage and family therapy

Temporary marriage and family therapy licensure authorized by NMSA 1978 § 61-9A-16. Part 14 operationally describes temporary LAMFT and LMHC licenses; the statute also expressly refers to the independent LMFT qualification section.

Licensing authority: New Mexico Counseling and Therapy Practice Board · Application information

Discretionary temporary licensure while the Board verifies qualifications
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board discretion
Under § 61-9A-16(B), notwithstanding subsection A, the Board may issue temporary licensure as it deems necessary to ensure that the applicant meets the Act requirements.
Duration
The statute states a period not exceeding six months or a period necessary for the Board to ensure that qualifications have been met.
Examination basis
The distinct notwithstanding issuance authority in § 61-9A-16(B) makes this temporary issuance dependent on Board discretion and verification, and specifies no examination as a condition of that issuance.
Ordinary license
Obtaining the corresponding ordinary license is governed by that license separate examination route.
Scope
Corresponding marriage and family therapy license type; underlying qualifications are determined by the Board.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary licensure pending examination
AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination
Board rule scope
Part 14 expressly operationalizes temporary LAMFT and LMHC licenses. Section 61-9A-16(A) also expressly lists § 61-9A-12, authorizing the temporary independent marriage and family therapist form.
Controlling term
NMSA 1978 § 61-9A-16(A) limits the temporary term to 60 days after results of the next examination and automatically expires it upon failure to take or pass; the statute states that the temporary license will not then be reissued.
Examination timing
No prior passage is required for initial temporary issuance; the identified national examination remains a leaf because the temporary pathway expressly involves the next examination.
Qualification
Meet the requirements of the corresponding license except examination; the temporary license precedes examination and permits practice while meeting it.
Supervision
The statute requires all independent LMFT qualifications other than examination, including postgraduate experience and supervision.

AMFTRB Marital and Family Therapy National Examination

Provider
Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB); administered for AMFTRB by Professional Testing Corporation (PTC) at Prometric computer-based testing centers
Format
Computer-based examination of objective multiple-choice questions, each with four alternative answers of which only one is correct; given during a one-week testing window every month; scores on the six domains and the total examination are reported after the window closes
Exam questions
180 multiple-choice items
Time limit
4 hours total testing time
Passing score
Criterion-referenced passing score set on an anchor examination by a modified Angoff method and adjusted across forms by equating; the reported score equals the total number of correct responses
Exam fee
US $370.00 examination fee (includes testing center fees)
Examination outline
  • Domain 01 — The Practice of Systemic Therapy — Tasks related to incorporating systemic theory and perspectives into practice activities, and establishing and maintaining ongoing therapeutic relationships with the client system inclusive of diverse cultural contexts. (16%; 29 items) (16%)
    • 01.01 Conceptualize therapy consistent with the philosophical perspectives of systemic theory.
    • 01.02 Maintain consistency between systemic theory and clinical practice.
    • 01.03 Integrate individual treatment approaches with systemic treatment approaches.
    • 01.04 Integrate multiple dimensions of diversity and social justice theories with systemic treatment approaches.
    • 01.05 Use a systemic perspective to co-create a safe, inclusive, and non-judgmental space.
    • 01.06 Use a systemic perspective to co-create a therapeutic relationship with the client system.
    • 01.07 Use a systemic perspective to understand the complexities inherent in therapeutic interactions (e.g., family homeostasis, self of the therapist).
  • Domain 02 — Assessing, Hypothesizing, and Diagnosing — Tasks related to assessing and conceptualizing the various dimensions of the client system inclusive of diverse cultural contexts, including forming and reformulating systemic hypotheses and diagnosing the client system to guide therapeutic activities and interventions, including use of artificial intelligence (AI) as appropriate. (16%; 29 items) (16%)
    • 02.01 Assess the client system’s verbal and non-verbal communication styles to develop hypotheses about relationship patterns, perceptions, and responses to the reciprocal influence of relational patterns and the presenting issues.
    • 02.02 Assess the mental status of clients.
    • 02.03 Assess historic and current self-injurious behavior, suicidal ideation and intent, and/or homicidal ideation and intent.
    • 02.04 Identify and assess behavioral dynamics, processes, and interactional patterns (e.g., boundaries, roles, rules, alliances, coalitions, and hierarchies) within the client system to determine systemic functioning.
    • 02.05 Formulate and continually assess hypotheses regarding the client system that consider and incorporate diverse contexts.
    • 02.06 Assess appropriateness of potential treatment and therapeutic delivery modalities for the client system.
    • 02.07 Assess environmental factors (e.g., discrimination, gang violence, migration) affecting the client system.
    • 02.08 Assess the client system’s levels of economic, social, emotional, physical, spiritual, and cognitive functioning.
    • 02.09 Assess historic and current effects of substance use disorders on the functioning of the client system.
    • 02.10 Assess historic and current effects of violence or trauma, including vicarious trauma, on the client system.
    • 02.11 Assess historic and current effects of childhood experiences and traumas on the client system.
    • 02.12 Assess historic and current effects of impact of process use disorders (e.g., gambling, internet use, technology use, shopping) on functioning of the client system.
    • 02.13 Assess historic and current effects of sexual functioning on the client system.
    • 02.14 Assess how the developmental and family life cycle stages of the client system impact problem formation, maintenance, and resolution.
    • 02.15 Assess strengths, resources, coping skills, and resilience within and available to the client system.
    • 02.16 Select, administer, review, and/or interpret results of standardized instruments within the therapist’s training, competence, and scope of practice.
    • 02.17 Assess and diagnose clients in accordance with current DSM and ICD diagnostic criteria while maintaining a systems perspective.
    • 02.18 Formulate treatment hypotheses that integrate systemic perspectives, assessment inventories, and diagnostic impressions.
    • 02.19 Assess effects of occupational issues on the client system (e.g., military personnel, workers in geographically dispersed locations, first responders).
    • 02.20 Collaborate with the client system to determine need for evaluation by other professional and community systems.
    • 02.21 Collaborate with professional and community systems as appropriate in making diagnoses and establishing treatment priorities.
    • 02.22 Collaborate with the client system to refer as appropriate based on diagnoses and treatment priorities.
  • Domain 03 — Designing and Conducting Treatment — Tasks related to developing and implementing a course of culturally responsive treatment with the client system, including identifying possible therapeutic models, implementing associated interventions, and treatment planning, including use of artificial intelligence (AI) as appropriate. (17%; 30 items) (17%)
    • 03.01 Evaluate and maintain a quality therapeutic alliance with the client system.
    • 03.02 Establish therapeutic contracts.
    • 03.03 Utilize assessment information to develop a treatment plan that reflects a contextual understanding of the presenting issue.
    • 03.04 Determine relevant short-term goals, long-term goals and objectives for treatment, as well as criteria for successful completion of treatment.
    • 03.05 Identify the client system’s previous and current attempts to resolve the presenting issues.
    • 03.06 Identify members of client and collateral systems involved in resolving issues.
    • 03.07 Develop and monitor ongoing safety plan to address identified safety risks for the client in all therapeutic delivery contexts.
    • 03.08 Engage in therapeutic interventions based on theory and current research and a shared contextual understanding of the client system and presenting issues.
    • 03.09 Clarify with the client system the rationale for selecting therapeutic interventions as appropriate.
    • 03.10 Collaborate with the client system to determine sequence of treatment and identify which members will be involved.
    • 03.11 Develop and monitor recovery-oriented systemic care for treatment of substance use disorders.
    • 03.12 Use genograms and/or family mapping as therapeutic interventions as indicated.
    • 03.13 Facilitate client system change through restructuring and reorganization.
    • 03.14 Collaborate with the client system to identify and explore competing priorities of client issues to be addressed in treatment.
    • 03.15 Assist the client system in developing decision-making, coping, and effective verbal and non-verbal communication skills in their relational contexts.
    • 03.16 Attend to the homeostatic process and its impact on the client system’s ability to attain therapeutic goals.
    • 03.17 Assist the client system in developing alternative perspectives of the presenting issues to facilitate solutions.
    • 03.18 Influence client behavior and perceptions through use of metaphor, rewriting narratives, mindfulness, etc.
    • 03.19 Integrate cultural, spiritual, social, intellectual, and biological characteristics and strengths of the client system when devising effective treatment strategies.
    • 03.20 Recognize and support client autonomy when devising effective treatment strategies.
    • 03.21 Maintain awareness of common side effects of medications, monitor client system for these within the boundaries of professional competence, and coordinate care with any relevant prescribers.
    • 03.22 Adapt therapeutic stance and interventions to accommodate the process and structure of all therapeutic delivery modalities.
  • Domain 04 — Evaluating Ongoing Process and Terminating Treatment — Tasks related to continuously evaluating the therapeutic process, incorporating feedback into the course of treatment, and planning for termination, inclusive of different cultural contexts and use of artificial intelligence (AI) as appropriate. (16%; 29 items) (16%)
    • 04.01 Use theory and current research in the ongoing evaluation of process, outcomes, and termination.
    • 04.02 Evaluate the progress of therapy in collaboration with client and collateral systems as indicated.
    • 04.03 Modify treatment plan in collaboration with client and collateral systems as indicated.
    • 04.04 Continually evaluate client system appropriateness for all therapeutic delivery modalities.
    • 04.05 Develop a termination plan in collaboration with the client and collateral systems to maintain therapeutic gains after treatment has ended.
    • 04.06 Terminate therapeutic relationship in a professional and culturally responsive manner.
  • Domain 05 — Managing Crisis Situations — Tasks related to assessing and managing emergency situations, inclusive of different cultural contexts, and intervening when clinically indicated and/or legally mandated. (16%; 29 items) (16%)
    • 05.01 Assess impairment in the client system during crisis situations to determine if and what immediate interventions may be needed.
    • 05.02 Assess for presence of suicidal ideation and determine the level of intervention.
    • 05.03 Assess for risk of violence toward the client from others to determine the need for intervention.
    • 05.04 Assess the client’s potential for self-injurious behavior to determine level of intervention.
    • 05.05 Assess the client’s potential for violence or harm toward others, including the therapist, to determine level of intervention.
    • 05.06 Assess risk of violence toward therapist from sources outside of the client system and develop a safety plan.
    • 05.07 Assess impact of community-level crisis on client system and develop interventions as they pertain to that crisis.
    • 05.08 Assess the impact of client system’s trauma history and other relevant contextual factors on current crisis.
    • 05.09 Collaborate with other relevant stakeholders in managing client system’s crisis.
    • 05.10 Respond to emerging crisis as appropriate to the therapeutic delivery modality and use relevant crisis resources.
  • Domain 06 — Maintaining Ethical, Legal, and Professional Standards — Tasks related to ongoing adherence to legal and ethical codes and treatment agreements, maintaining culturally responsive competency, upholding professional standards, and utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) in clinical practice. (19%; 34 items) (19%)
    • 06.01 Demonstrate professional responsibility and competence regarding legal issues and regulations across therapeutic delivery modalities, including use of artificial intelligence (AI).
    • 06.02 Compare agency and employment policies with relevant ethics code, statutes, case law, and regulations and privilege the higher standard.
    • 06.03 Integrate current ethical codes of licensing boards, relevant professional organizations, and associations into appropriate professional practice.
    • 06.04 Adhere to relevant business laws related to clinical practice (e.g., Stark Law, Anti-Kickback Statute, False Claims Act, etc.)
    • 06.05 Practice within therapist’s scope of competence.
    • 06.06 Maintain awareness of and effectively manage how the therapist’s personal issues, life experiences, values and morals, and previous trauma impact the therapeutic process.
    • 06.07 Maintain awareness of and effectively manage how the supervisors’ personal issues, life experiences, values and morals, and previous trauma influence the supervisory process
    • 06.08 Adhere to treatment agreements with client systems and respect the rights of clients.
    • 06.09 Provide the client system with written professional disclosures regarding fees, credentials, reporting complaints, confidentiality, privileged communication, and providing technologically assisted services, including use of artificial intelligence (AI), etc.
    • 06.10 Confirm the client system’s identities, locations, and safety levels at the beginning of each teletherapy session.
    • 06.11 Monitor and mitigate risk for potential exploitation of the client system by the therapist.
    • 06.12 Consult with colleagues and other professionals as necessary regarding ethical and legal issues, and document these consultations.
    • 06.13 Respect the roles and responsibilities of other professionals involved in the client system’s treatment process as they relate to ethical and legal issues.
    • 06.14 Maintain accurate and timely records including long-term safe and confidential storage and plan record transfer and/or disposal within timeframes specified by current statutes.
    • 06.15 Adhere to ethical and regulatory guidelines for engaging in the supervisor-supervisee relationship across modalities.
Examination sources