How to Become a Military Psychologist

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What Is Military Psychology?

Military psychology focuses on active members of the military and veterans who’ve returned to civilian life. Military psychologists may also treat family members of veterans since the psychological strain of service can significantly affect veterans’ loved ones. Additionally, psychologists can provide family members with support tools for veterans who may be suffering from trauma or depression.

Every branch of the U.S. military has its own group of designated psychologists, such as Army psychologists, Navy psychologists, and Air Force psychologists.

What Does a Military Psychologist Do?

Duties and specifics may vary based on what branch of military psychology you work in. No matter which service branch you choose, however, your duties may entail any of the following:

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How to Become a Military Psychologist

Those wondering how to become military psychologists should know that there are specific educational requirements for practicing psychology. In addition to earning undergraduate and master’s-level degrees — typically in fields related to mental health — military psychologists must also earn PhDs. This can be in general or clinical psychology or in counseling. Students should enroll in programs that the American Psychological Association (APA) has accredited.

Though it’s not required, you can pursue your psychology degree from a military school. There are some potential advantages to doing so. First, in exchange for your service, the military may cover the cost of your tuition. Additionally, earning a psychology degree from a military school can provide training that’s more focused on issues impacting service members, military families, and veterans.

Following the completion of a PhD, a one-year clinical internship is required in one of the branches of the military. Becoming a military psychologist also requires a valid license or certification to practice psychology, which can be obtained by passing the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) and meeting other related requirements. The specific requirements for licensure can vary depending on the state.

You can also choose from the following: enlisting as an active member of the military, doubling as a practicing psychologist, or serving in a civilian role.

Military Career Resources

According to Psychology Today, the military provides numerous financial resources for those who wish to pursue careers in military psychology. A few examples are as follows:

The Department of Veterans Affairs also offers many career resources for veterans, including online networking and job training opportunities. These resources may be valuable to those seeking work in the counseling profession, whether in the military or in post-military life.

These are just a few examples of resources to consider as you contemplate how to become a military psychologist.

Key Skills in Military Psychology

A primary goal of advanced education is honing the skills required for success in military psychology. A few examples of essential military psychology skills are as follows:

• Active listening. Psychologists must be prepared to fully listen to what their patients are saying and to extend empathy and compassion.
• Familiarity with PTSD. Military psychology professionals should also have specific familiarity addressing mental health conditions that are common to service members, especially trauma and depression.
• Communication. Psychologists should be able to convey the details of a diagnosis or a treatment plan in a clear, understandable way.
• Critical thinking. Military psychology professionals may need to piece together details to arrive at a clinical diagnosis.
• Collaboration. Success in this field often depends on the ability to cooperate with other clinical professionals.

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Northwestern University - Online MA in Counseling (CACREP Accredited)

Walden University - PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision, School Counseling (HLC Accredited)

Walden University - MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)

Walden University - MS in School Counseling (CACREP Accredited)

Walden University - MS in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling (CACREP Accredited)

Walden University - PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision, Addiction Counseling (HLC Accredited)

Walden University - BS in Psychology (HLC Accredited)

Walden University - MS Dual Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling (CACREP Accredited)

Walden University - MS in Psychology (HLC Accredited)