Psychologists (Officer)
Opportunities
Psychologists plan, direct, and administer programs that ensure delivery of effective mental health services to military personnel. They utilize psychological principles, theories, and techniques through direct patient care, consultation, as well as education programs related to investigation, evaluation, and treatment of mental illness and behavior disorders. They provide consulting and develop policies to promote mental health awareness and research. They perform experiments to determine the effects of various environmental factors on human behavior, adjustment, performance, and effectiveness.
Training Provided
Job training for psychologists primarily consists of on-the-job learning in various training environments. Advanced education and training opportunities are available in some specialties, as well as access to sophisticated technologies, research methods, and opportunities to consult with leading military and civilian researchers, as well as the other professional growth opportunities such as attending professional development courses, research seminars, and academic conferences.
Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree; enlisted service members can transition to officer positions through a variety of pathways and earn a degree while serving. Like other officers working in healthcare, they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, orientation to military structure, healthcare and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development.
Earnings
Officers in the military can progress through ten officer pay grades during their careers. Pay grade and length of service determine an officer's pay. Most newly commissioned officers begin at pay grade O-1 ($3826/month basic pay in 2024). With certain professional qualifications, officers may enter at a higher pay grade. After two years, officers generally move up to O-2 ($5021/month basic pay in 2024). After an additional two years, the military generally promotes officers to O-3 ($6806/month basic pay in 2024) if job performance and other requirements are met. Cost-of-living increases usually occur once a year. Many officers and their families live free of charge in military housing on the base where they are assigned. Those living off base receive a housing allowance in addition to their basic pay. Officers also receive a monthly food allowance. These allowances, and associated tax savings, are substantial additions to basic pay. Other employment benefits for military officers include free health care, 30 days paid vacation each year, legal assistance, education assistance, military store privileges, and an excellent retirement program.
Services offering this occupation
Air Force
Army
Navy