As a Psychology Assistant in the Department of National Defence, you provide essential support to psychologists and mental health teams in delivering clinical and counselling services to Canadian Armed Forces members and their families. You work in a dynamic health care environment where your contributions directly impact the wellbeing of our military community. Your role bridges administrative and clinical functions, ensuring that psychological services operate smoothly and effectively across DND facilities and clinics.
Your day-to-day responsibilities include assisting with patient assessments, maintaining clinical records, scheduling appointments, and supporting the delivery of therapeutic interventions. You may help conduct psychometric testing, prepare clinical materials, and provide administrative coordination for mental health programs. You'll work closely with registered psychologists, psychiatrists, and other health care professionals in a collaborative team environment. Your work requires attention to detail, sensitivity to confidential health information, and the ability to work with individuals experiencing various mental health challenges.
You'll find yourself in a supportive role that makes a real difference. Whether working at a Canadian Forces Base, a Veterans Affairs clinic, or a regional health centre, you're part of a commitment to mental health support that is core to military readiness and personnel welfare. The work is meaningful, varied, and offers exposure to clinical psychology practice within a structured institutional setting.
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
Most positions require a high school diploma or equivalent. Many successful Psychology Assistants hold a diploma or degree in psychology, social sciences, health sciences, or a related field. Some positions may require or prefer completion of specific training in mental health support, crisis intervention, or clinical assistance.
While professional psychology credentials are not required for this role, training in areas such as psychological first aid, trauma-informed care, or mental health support can strengthen your candidacy. The Government of Canada supports professional development, and you may have opportunities to pursue relevant certifications or formal training while employed. Experience in health care settings, social services, or direct support roles is highly valued. Some positions may require a security clearance due to access to confidential health and personnel information.
Entry Plans
Entry to Psychology Assistant positions in DND typically occurs through Public Service Commission job competitions, which are open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. These competitions are advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website (jobs.gc.ca) and the DND Civilian Careers website. Positions may be posted at various experience levels, allowing both recent graduates and experienced candidates to apply.
You may also enter through the Public Service Resourcing Program, which includes pools of pre-screened candidates, or through lateral moves if you're already employed in the federal Public Service. The Canadian Armed Forces sometimes offers student employment programs and co-op opportunities that can provide a pathway to permanent positions. Veterans and other priority groups may have additional entry opportunities. Competition requirements typically include a written assessment, an interview, and evaluation of your education and experience. It's recommended to review specific competition postings carefully, as requirements and selection criteria may vary by position and location.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements may be available depending on the specific position and operational needs of the employing clinic or facility. Many Psychology Assistant roles in DND are full-time, as they support ongoing clinical operations and patient care schedules. However, some positions may offer flexible scheduling to accommodate clinical needs, and requests for part-time work or modified schedules may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Remote work options are typically limited for this role, as Psychology Assistants are usually required to work on-site to support clinical operations, manage patient files, and assist with in-person appointments. However, some administrative tasks may be performed remotely depending on facility policies and information security requirements. Work-life balance and access to flexible benefits are important aspects of employment in the federal Public Service. Interested candidates should discuss specific arrangements with the hiring manager, as flexibility may be negotiated based on operational requirements and individual circumstances.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
