Can You Be a Military Psychologist as a Civilian?

Yes, it is very much possible to become a military psychologist without enlisting in the military. Numerous pathways are available for civilian individuals who wish to specialize in this field. This article will guide you through the steps to becoming a military psychologist as a civilian, explore the necessary education, training, licensure, and employment opportunities.

Education and Training

Becoming a military psychologist as a civilian primarily hinges on your educational background and training. To embark on this path, you will need to:

Obtain a Ph.D. or Psy.D. in Psychology: The most common route is to earn a doctoral degree in psychology with a specialization in clinical or counseling psychology. These programs provide the foundational knowledge and skills required. Complete Clinical Training: Crucial to the training is a significant amount of supervised clinical experience. This usually includes internships, post-doctoral fellowships, or residencies. Focus on Specific Areas: To specialize in military psychology, consider coursework, workshops, or internships that specifically address the psychological aspects of military service, trauma, and resilience.

Licensure

Once you have completed your education and training, the next crucial step is to receive a state license to practice psychology. This involves:

Pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP): This is a mandatory test for all psychologists. It covers a wide range of topics to assess your knowledge and skills. Fulfill State-Specific Requirements: Depending on your state, there may be additional requirements such as background checks, supervised experience, or specific coursework. Consider Specialized Certifications: For additional credibility, some professionals may choose to pursue certifications from organizations such as the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP) in areas related to military or trauma psychology.

Employment Opportunities

As a civilian military psychologist, you have multiple employment options:

Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): The VA offers a variety of positions for psychologists who work with military personnel and veterans. Private Practices: Many psychologists set up private practices that specialize in military-related issues, helping active-duty personnel, veterans, and their families. Non-Profit Organizations: There are numerous non-profits that focus on supporting service members and their families, providing a range of psychological services. Contractor or Consultant Roles: Some psychologists work as contractors or consultants with military organizations, providing psychological services without being active-duty personnel.

Collaboration with Military Organizations

While serving as a military psychologist, you might collaborate with military organizations in various capacities. This can include working as a Department of the Army Civilian or a contract psychologist, supporting military operations, and providing psychological services without being an active-duty personnel.

To sum up: By following the educational, training, and licensure requirements, you can effectively work as a military psychologist while remaining a civilian. This field offers a rewarding career with diverse opportunities to serve and support those who have served.

Keywords: military psychologist, civilian psychologist, military psychology