Clinical Psychologists in the Department of National Defence provide essential mental health and psychological services to Canadian Armed Forces members, veterans, and their families. In this role, you will conduct psychological assessments, provide evidence-based psychotherapy and counselling, and contribute to the overall health and wellness of the military community. Your work directly supports operational readiness and the well-being of personnel across the country.
As a Clinical Psychologist, your responsibilities include conducting comprehensive psychological evaluations, diagnosing mental health conditions, developing and implementing treatment plans, and providing individual and group therapy. You will collaborate with other healthcare professionals, military leadership, and community partners to ensure coordinated care. You may also contribute to research initiatives, provide consultation on mental health policy, and deliver psychological health promotion and prevention programs.
You will work in diverse settings including military bases, veterans' health clinics, operational deployments, and community health centres. The work environment is dynamic and mission-focused, requiring flexibility, cultural competence, and the ability to work effectively within the military context while maintaining the highest standards of clinical practice.
Key Responsibilities
Provide clinical psychology services to clients and patients, Assess needs and develop treatment or service plans, Maintain accurate clinical and case records, Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver care
Required Skills
Clinical skills, Patient/client assessment, Empathy and communication, Record-keeping, Interdisciplinary collaboration, Technical proficiency, Attention to detail, Collaboration, Continuous learning
Typical Education
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To qualify as a Clinical Psychologist with the Department of National Defence, you must hold a doctoral degree in Psychology (PhD or PsyD) from a Canadian university or equivalent recognized credential. You must be licensed to practice as a psychologist in a Canadian province or territory and be a member in good standing of the regulatory college in your province of practice.
Professional development is ongoing and encouraged throughout your career. You will have access to specialized training in military psychology, trauma-informed care, and operational psychology. Many positions include funding for continuing education, professional certifications, and attendance at national and international conferences. You may pursue additional specializations in areas such as combat trauma, occupational health psychology, or forensic psychology depending on organizational needs and your professional interests.
Entry Plans
Clinical Psychologists typically enter the Department of National Defence through competitive public service competitions announced on the Government of Canada Jobs website (jobs.gc.ca). These competitions are open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents who meet the required qualifications.
Entry can occur at various levels depending on your experience. Recent graduates or those with limited federal experience may enter at the employee level, while those with relevant military health service experience or extensive clinical background may qualify for more senior positions. The Public Service Commission manages all recruitment and selection processes.
Lateral moves from other federal departments or within DND are also possible when positions become available. Experienced Clinical Psychologists working in other government agencies may transition into DND roles. Stay informed about opportunities by regularly checking the DND careers website and subscribing to job alert notifications through the Government of Canada Jobs portal.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements are available for Clinical Psychologists and are subject to operational requirements and management approval. Many positions offer flexibility in work hours to accommodate clinical schedules and allow for work-life balance.
Remote work options have expanded across the Public Service, and some clinical services—such as psychological assessment preparation, report writing, and certain counselling sessions—may be conducted remotely or in hybrid arrangements. However, some clinical activities require in-person interaction, particularly for initial assessments and complex cases. Specific flexible work arrangements will be discussed during the hiring process and are determined in consultation with your manager based on operational needs and the nature of your assigned duties.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
