As a Psychologist with the Department of National Defence, you will provide evidence-based psychological services to support the mental health and wellbeing of Canadian Armed Forces members, veterans, and their families. You will conduct psychological assessments, provide individual and group counselling, develop treatment plans, and contribute to organizational mental health initiatives. Your work directly impacts operational readiness and the quality of life of our military community.
Your responsibilities will include conducting clinical interviews and psychological testing, diagnosing mental health conditions, delivering therapeutic interventions, and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams including physicians, social workers, and occupational therapists. You may work in military hospitals, operational settings, community mental health clinics, or rehabilitation centres across Canada and potentially at international locations.
The work environment is dynamic and meaningful. You will encounter diverse populations and complex cases, including members dealing with operational stress, trauma, transition challenges, and family issues. Your expertise helps bridge the gap between military culture and mental health care, requiring both clinical competence and understanding of defence operations.
Key Responsibilities
Provide 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 Psychologist with DND, you must hold a doctoral degree in psychology (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) from a recognized university. Your degree must include supervised clinical training and practicum experience. You must be registered or eligible for registration as a psychologist in a Canadian province or territory, which typically requires completion of a doctoral program accredited by the Canadian Psychological Association.
Certifications and ongoing professional development are essential. You should maintain your professional licence or registration throughout your career and participate in continuing education to stay current with clinical best practices, military psychology, and trauma-informed care. DND supports professional development through conferences, specialized training in military mental health, and advanced certifications in areas such as cognitive-behavioural therapy, trauma treatment, and occupational health psychology. Many psychologists pursue additional credentials in areas relevant to defence, such as operational psychology or military cultural competency.
Entry Plans
Entry into the DND civilian psychologist position typically occurs through Public Service Commission (PSC) job competitions. These are advertised on the Government of Canada Job Bank and the DND Civilian Careers website. Positions may be open to Canadian citizens or permanent residents depending on the specific competition.
You may also enter through lateral moves if you are already employed in the federal Public Service, as DND sometimes offers internal competitions or considers mobility within the government. Some entry paths may involve starting in a term position or contract role before transitioning to a permanent position as vacancies arise.
The application process requires submission of your curriculum vitae, proof of your doctoral degree, and evidence of professional registration or eligibility for registration in Canada. You may be required to undergo a security clearance, medical examination, and psychological assessment as part of the screening process. Interviews typically assess your clinical knowledge, military cultural awareness, and ability to work in a team-based defence environment.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements are available for Psychologists at DND, though availability depends on operational needs and local staffing levels. Many positions are full-time, but some postings may offer part-time hours, job sharing, or flexible schedules to support work-life balance.
Remote work options have expanded and are considered on a case-by-case basis. While some clinical work requires in-person contact with clients, telepsychology and virtual counselling have become more common, particularly for initial assessments, follow-up sessions, and consultations. Remote work arrangements are typically negotiated with your manager and may depend on your work location and the nature of your clients.
Leave entitlements for part-time employees are prorated based on hours worked. DND also offers family-friendly benefits including parental leave, flexible work arrangements for caregiving responsibilities, and access to employee wellness programs. Discuss flexible work options during the recruitment process or with your manager after hiring to determine what arrangements can be accommodated within your unit.
