Licensed and trained healthcare specialists who identify, diagnose and treat mental, emotional and behavioral health problems are called psychologists. In the state of New Mexico, the Board of Psychologist Examiners regulates the licensure process. If you are interested in this profession, take a look at this detailed guide to begin your journey.

Should I Become a Psychologist in New Mexico?

Psychologists are healthcare professionals who provide one on one consultations to their patients or clients and aim to study the human behavior and how it impacts all aspects of their lives. Like all other doctors, Psychologists may also specialize to work in a particular industry. For instance, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics categorizes Psychologists in 3 areas.

  • Industrial & Organizational Psychologists
  • Clinical or Counseling & School Psychologists
  • All other Psychologists
Education Required A (PhD) doctoral degree
Major Requirement Psychology
License/Certification Getting a state issued license is mandatory
Experience/Training Supervised work experience of 2 years minimum
Key Skills Communication, Analytical, Organizational, Observational and Problem-solving skills; Patience and Integrity etc.
Annual Mean Salary (2019)-National $98,230 (Psychologists, All Other)
Annual Mean Salary (2019) -New Mexico $83,560 (Psychologists, All Other)
Job Outlook(2018-2028) 14% (Faster than the average)

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2019)

Career Outlook for Psychologists in New Mexico

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, New Mexico had an employment level of 90 for “Psychologists, All Other” in 2019. In addition to that, the BLS predicted a 14% rise in employment for all Psychologists in the US between 2018 and 2028.

Steps to Become a Psychologist in New Mexico

Do you feel that this is career is your passion? Then, follow this 5-step guide and let’s get going!

    1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
Several universities in New Mexico offer a 4-year bachelor’s degree such as, the University of New Mexico offers an online BA in Psychology. If you graduate with this degree with excellent grades, you may become eligible for a direct admission to the doctoral program.
    1. Get a 2-year Master’s Degree
You may need to complete a 2-year master’s degree in Psychology. The University of New Mexico does not offer a stand-alone master’s degree but a master’s leading to PhD in Psychology is offered.
    1. Complete a Doctoral Degree
It is mandatory for all Psychologists in the US to complete a doctoral degree which may take 4-6 years to complete. The University of New Mexico offers a master’s leading to PhD degree in Psychology with many specializations.
    1. Gain Field Experience
All aspiring psychologists who want to obtain their license must gain 2 years of work experience under the supervision of a licensed psychologist.
    1. Acquire a State Issued License
As mentioned above, the New Mexico Board of Psychologist Examiners acts as the regulatory authority for psychologists. All psychologists need to be licensed in order to practice and the requirements of licensure are described below.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Psychologist in New Mexico?

Becoming a licensed psychologist may take approx. 12 years or more depending upon the educational and career choices you make.

What Are the Requirements for Becoming a Licensed Psychologist in New Mexico?

To work as a licensed psychologist in the state of New Mexico, you must:

  • Send official transcripts of an APA/ASPPB accredited doctoral degree in Psychology in a sealed envelope
  • Submit 3 reference letters and 2 of the letters must be from a licensed practicing psychologist
  • Send official scores of the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP)
  • Submit a background check for initial licensure
  • After assessing your application, the Board Office will send the Jurisprudence Examination to the candidate which they must clear to get licensed

 

How Much Can I Make as a Psychologist in New Mexico?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported $83,560 as the annual mean salary of Psychologists, All Other employed in the state of New Mexico in 2019.