How difficult is it to get in military or veteran psychology and what steps do I need to take?
I currently have 8 friends in the military, ranging from the army, marines, and navy. They say sometimes it can get pretty tough and I try to help them by staying positive. Most of them are only doing one term and I want to try to relate to them when they get back into civilian life. I have thought about joining the military but decided it was better for me to go to college. I want to help other military personnel or veterans like I would with my friends but I have no idea where to even start. #military #clinical-psychology #social-psychology #military-education #military-transition
2 answers
Ted’s Answer
Hi Ellie --
I'm a military veteran, previously a commissioned officer in the United States Army. I personally appreciate the fact that you have an interest in helping veterans.
Regarding your question -- "How difficult is it to get in military or veteran psychology and what steps do I need to take?"...
First and foremost, you'll need to pursue and academic program that will land you at becoming a psychologist. That means obtaining a either Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Psychology or a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.), in order to practice.
A helpful link for you to check out would be: http://study.com/articles/Military_Psychologist_Job_Duties_and_Education_Requirements.html
Note the following, from that link:
"Education Requirements
A military psychologist requires the same education that a civilian psychologist must obtain. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), this includes licensing, which must be renewed on a regular basis (www.bls.gov). The BLS reported that a psychologist must achieve a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Psychology or a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.), in order to practice. A military position does not require attending a military school. The last educational requirement needed to become a military psychologist is an internship with a specific branch of the military. Each branch highlights different types of services, but all involve some form of field training. Undertaking this type of education at the expense of the military often results in an obligation to serve for a specific number of years. "
You might also check out this additional link: http://study.com/articles/Become_a_Military_Psychologist_Education_and_Career_Roadmap.html
I hope this information helps. Good luck in your endeavors!
Thank you the advice was very helpful! And thank you for your service!
Ellie
You are welcome. I know you said you prefer to go to college than join the military but I would encourage you to go to this site before you make a final decision. You can get your college paid for in exchange for your service.
http://todaysmilitary.com/training/rotc?source-id=ROTC&content-id=rotc&medium-id=Exact&campaign-id=G_Military_Training_Programs_Exact
Penny Kusterer
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR KIND WISHES
Hajira
Penny’s Answer
Hi Ellie,
I am a retired Medical Service Corps officer from the Air Force Reserves. I worked in medical administration and applaud you for wanting to help our military personnel. You might want to consider pursuing a Masters in Social Work. Many military facilities do hire civilians in this field to help our veterans and their families. Good Luck!