About the Program

The Counseling & Community Psychology program at NMSU Grants offers both an associate degree and certificate designed to prepare students for careers supporting individuals, families, and communities. These programs provide a strong foundation in human development, mental health, and community-based practice, supporting students at different stages of their academic and professional journeys.

Throughout the program, students develop an understanding of how individuals grow, cope, and interact within social, cultural, and environmental contexts. Core coursework emphasizes psychological foundations, helping skills, community engagement, and culturally responsive approaches to supporting diverse populations. Students explore topics such as mental health, trauma, resilience, and social systems, while building practical skills that can be applied in real-world settings.

The program is responsive to the needs of rural and culturally diverse communities in Cibola County, where access to mental health and community-based services is critical. Students are prepared to engage in work that supports the well-being of individuals and strengthens the communities they are part of.

The associate degree program is designed for students seeking comprehensive preparation for entry-level roles in behavioral health, human services, and community-based organizations, or for those planning to transfer to a four-year institution in psychology, counseling, or a related field. Certificate options provide foundational training for individuals entering or currently working in helping professions and support professional growth and advancement.

These programs support multiple pathways, whether students are entering the workforce, advancing in their current roles, or continuing their education. With small class sizes, supportive faculty, and strong community connections, NMSU Grants provides a personalized and accessible learning environment for future counseling and community psychology professionals.

Transfer Opportunities

Are you interested in pursuing a bachelor’s degree in psychology, counseling, or a related field? Save money by starting at NMSU Grants in manageable, small classes taught by supportive, experienced faculty.

The associate degree pathway in Counseling & Community Psychology is designed to help you complete your degree while staying on track to transfer to a four-year institution. Transfer pathways with New Mexico State University Main Campus support a seamless transition toward a bachelor’s degree in fields such as psychology, social work, counseling, or human services.

Students may also transfer to other colleges and universities across New Mexico and beyond. Because transfer requirements and admission criteria vary by institution and program, students are encouraged to work closely with advisors and contact their intended transfer institution early in their academic journey. NMSU Grants faculty and advisors are committed to supporting students throughout the transfer process by helping them select appropriate coursework, understand application requirements, and successfully transition to the next step in their educational and professional goals.

Career Opportunities

Successful completion of a degree or certificate within the Counseling & Community Psychology programs at NMSU Grants can lead to a variety of careers supporting individuals, families, and communities. These pathways prepare students for roles in behavioral health, social services, education, and community-based organizations. Some careers may require additional education, certification, or licensure.

Below are examples of related occupations with recent median annual wages and projected job outlook:

 

Occupation	Median Income (2024)	Job Outlook (2024–2034)
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors	~$53,700 annually	~19% (much faster than average)
Social and Human Service Assistants	~$41,600 annually	~9% (faster than average)
Community Health Workers	~$48,200 annually	~14% (faster than average)
Psychiatric Technicians and Aides	~$39,000–$40,000 annually	~11% (faster than average)
Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists	~$61,000 annually	~3% (average growth)

 

In Cibola County and surrounding rural communities, there is a growing need for professionals who can support mental health, substance use recovery, and community well-being. Graduates of this program are well-positioned to contribute to local schools, behavioral health agencies, healthcare settings, and community-based organizations serving diverse populations.

These careers offer opportunities to make a meaningful impact by supporting mental health, well-being, and community resilience. Whether students choose to enter the workforce directly or continue their education, the Counseling & Community Psychology programs at NMSU Grants provide a strong foundation for careers in helping professions.

Meet the Faculty

Program Manager

Monica Molgaard earned her Ph.D. in Education from the University of California, San Diego, and holds a B.A. in Child Development. Her work focuses on equity in early childhood education, with particular attention to how racism shapes children’s experiences and learning environments. She is committed to supporting educators in implementing anti-bias and anti-racist practices in meaningful and sustainable ways. This work includes advancing equity-driven pedagogies in early childhood settings, building strong and reciprocal community partnerships, and designing hands-on professional learning experiences that support lasting change. She collaborates closely with schools and community-based early childhood programs to bridge research and practice. At NMSU Grants, she is especially committed to supporting educators and students in Cibola County and surrounding rural communities, with an emphasis on culturally responsive and community-engaged approaches to teaching and learning.

Adjunct Faculty

Nicholas Armenti, narmenti@senmc.edu

Tamera Hutchison, thutch@nmsu.edu

Jennifer Leistikow, jleistik@nmsu.edu

Shawn Secatero, ssecater@unm.edu

Cristina Vega, cmvega@nmsu.edu

Kristin Winfrey, winfrey@nmsu.edu

J'Lane Zamora, jlane58@nmsu.edu