Is it possible to work in behavioral health within the military? I’m thinking of a future career where I can support service members' mental health and well-being.
Absolutely, the military offers several behavioral health career pathways. You might consider becoming a Psychologist, Psychiatrist, or Mental Health Specialist.
Psychologists in the military assess, diagnose, and treat mental and emotional disorders, as well as conduct research and provide training. They might serve both military personnel and their families. This role generally requires a doctoral degree in clinical or counseling psychology.
Alternatively, as a Military Psychiatrist, you would provide medical and psychiatric care to soldiers and their families. You'd also have the power to prescribe medications. To be a psychiatrist, you'd need a medical degree plus residency in psychiatry.
Another option could be a Mental Health Specialist, sometimes also referred to as the enlisted role of Behavioral Health Technician. This position provides critical support in managing and treating mental health issues among service members. They often work under the supervision of psychiatrists or psychologists to provide counseling, assist with assessments, and conduct mental health and substance abuse prevention programs.
The specific requirements, training, and areas of specialty can vary depending on the branch of the military, so you might want to research each branch to see which opportunities align most closely with your interests and goals. Your career in the military could also include educational benefits, which could help you achieve any required degrees. In any case, supporting the mental health of service members is a crucial, and often deeply rewarding, line of work. Best of luck on your journey!
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.