Providing Excellence: Careers in Clinical Counseling with the Navy in Japan
Are you a licensed clinical professional seeking an adventure that aligns with your career goals and your desire to serve? The Department of the Navy offers an exceptional opportunity for a Non-Medical Clinical Counselor to join the Fleet and Family Support Program (FFSP) in the beautiful coastal city of Yokosuka, Japan. This role is more than just a job; it is a vital support system for the men, women, and families who serve our nation.
Job Responsibilities
As a counselor in this program, you will provide solution-focused, non-medical counseling. Your primary duties include:
- Assessing and triage referrals for families and individuals facing deployment, grief, and relationship issues.
- Acting as the subject matter expert for the Family Advocacy Program (FAP).
- Implementing evidence-based treatment strategies for domestic abuse prevention.
- Maintaining detailed clinical case records and ensuring compliance with safety and privacy standards.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must meet the following criteria:
- A valid, unrestricted clinical license for independent practice.
- A master’s degree in Social Work, MFT, or a doctorate in Psychology.
- At least two years of post-master’s supervised clinical experience.
- Four years of specialized experience in clinical counseling.
Salary and Comparison Table
The role offers a competitive salary structure commensurate with experience and federal pay scales.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $76,463 - $99,404 per year |
| Location | Yokosuka, Japan |
| Schedule | Full-Time (Non-Appropriated Fund) |
| Security Clearance | Secret Required |
Benefits
Employees stationed overseas receive a robust benefits package, including:
- Post Allowance: A non-taxable cost-of-living adjustment.
- Living Quarters Allowance: Assistance to cover housing and utilities.
- Relocation: Support for moving expenses and the shipment of household goods.
Application Tips
- Resume Limit: Keep your resume under two pages or risk automatic disqualification.
- Documentation: Ensure your transcripts are clearly labeled and your license is current.
- Clarity: Clearly define your experience in family dynamics and crisis intervention in your resume bullets.
Serving as a clinical counselor in Japan is a unique way to combine your professional passions with international travel. With comprehensive benefits and a high-impact scope, this position offers a pathway to professional growth while serving those who serve.
Why This Non-Medical Clinical Counselor Job Matters
Make a lasting impact on the lives of service members and their families in scenic Yokosuka, Japan. This is your chance to provide essential, trauma-informed clinical support within the prestigious Navy Fleet and Family Support Program.
Non-Medical Clinical Counselor Job Overview
The Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC) is seeking a dedicated Non-Medical Clinical Counselor to provide vital support at Fleet Activities Yokosuka. In this role, you will serve as a subject matter expert, helping military personnel and their families navigate the unique stressors of military life. From individual counseling to facilitating workshops on family dynamics and trauma-informed care, you will be an integral part of maintaining a mission-ready force in an international setting.
Requirements for Non-Medical Clinical Counselor
- Must hold a current, valid, and unrestricted clinical license or certification allowing independent practice in Social Work, Psychology, or Marriage and Family Therapy.
- Possess a master's degree (or higher) in Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy, or a doctorate in Psychology from an accredited program.
- Minimum of two years of full-time, post-master's supervised clinical experience.
- Minimum of four years of specialized experience in non-medical clinical counseling.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Ability to work effectively with diverse populations and handle sensitive family advocacy issues.
Preferred Qualifications for Non-Medical Clinical Counselor
- Extensive background in trauma-informed and evidence-based treatment practices.
- Experience with military family dynamics and understanding of Department of the Navy regulations.
- Proven history of crisis intervention and safety planning in a high-stakes environment.
- Demonstrated ability to conduct psycho-educational training and professional presentations.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive base salary
- ✓Non-taxable Post Allowance
- ✓Living Quarters Allowance (LQA) for housing
- ✓Relocation and moving cost assistance
- ✓Shipment and storage of household goods
- ✓Access to comprehensive NAF health plans
💡 How to Apply Non-Medical Clinical Counselor Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Non-Medical Clinical Counselor Job
- Log in to your USAJOBS profile or create a new account.
- Prepare your resume (maximum two pages, minimum 10pt font).
- Gather supporting documentation, including transcripts and professional license proof.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the application portal.
- Submit your entire application package by the closing date of July 14, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit; submissions exceeding this will be rejected.
- Be specific about your experience regarding family dynamics and trauma-informed counseling.
- Check for full email functionality to avoid missing automated notification letters.
- Include your Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) documentation if applicable for overseas employment.
- Proofread your questionnaire responses as they are primary components of your rating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a secret security clearance mandatory for this role?
Yes, this position is categorized as noncritical-sensitive/moderate risk, and obtaining a Secret clearance is a requirement for employment.
What does 'non-medical' counseling mean in this context?
It involves short-term, solution-focused counseling that addresses common life stressors, relationship issues, and adjustment to military life, rather than treating diagnosed mental health disorders.
Does the salary cover housing costs in Japan?
The position provides a Living Quarters Allowance (LQA) specifically designed to cover housing and utility costs for those on an overseas transportation agreement.
Job from Commander, Navy Installations Command
The Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC) operates the Fleet and Family Readiness (FFR) programs worldwide. Their mission is to sustain a ready Navy force by providing comprehensive support services, including housing, recreation, and family counseling. By joining the CNRJ Commander Fleet Activities in Yokosuka, you become part of a global team dedicated to the well-being of the military community.