How to Become a Psychologist in the Air National Guard
The Air National Guard offers psychologists the opportunity to apply their education toward service in the military as a commissioned officer while, at the same time, practicing in the civilian arena. To gain entry to their state's Air National Guard, however, psychologists must meet certain education and experience standards and undergo an application process. Once accepted, psychologists can begin their military service and provide mental health counseling and diagnoses for other service members.
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Instructions
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Attend college and earn both a bachelor's and doctorate degree in psychology. A doctorate is required to become a psychologist in the Air National Guard. Note that participating in extracurricular activities while keeping a high grade point average will make applicants more competitive during the application process for a commission in the Air National Guard.
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Speak with an Air National Guard recruiter in the area. The Air National Guard chooses its officers in much the same way civilian companies hire employees. Units will not choose an officer for commissioning in a particular field unless there is a specific need in that area.
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Piece together an application packet for commissioning. While the contents of this packet will vary depending on the Air National Guard unit, it should at least consist of a cover letter, resume, proof of education and letters of recommendation (the specific number of which will vary from location to location).
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Attend Commissioned Officer Training (COT) at Maxwell Air Force Base in Alabama, if selected. This is a five-week program designed specifically for health care, legal and religious professionals to quickly acclimate them to the military lifestyle. Upon graduation from COT, psychologists will be ready for service in the Air National Guard.
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Tips & Warnings
While it may be preferable to apply to a Air National Guard unit in the local area, take care to branch out and look at other states and locations. While one unit may not be hiring, the unit in the state or city next door may be looking for psychologists.
Like any member of the military, psychologists in the Air National Guard may be required to deploy to or near a war zone to practice their profession. Those wishing to become psychologists in the Air National Guard should take this into account before beginning the application process.
