Embark on a Meaningful Career: Deployed Resiliency Counselor
Are you a licensed clinical professional seeking a career that goes beyond the office walls? The Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC) in San Diego is currently looking for dedicated individuals to serve as Deployed Resiliency Counselors (DRC) based in Coronado, California. This is more than a standard clinical position—it is an opportunity to serve as an anchor for those who protect our country.
Job Responsibilities
As a DRC, you are a critical asset to the ship's command. Your responsibilities include:
- Embedded Clinical Support: Providing individual and group counseling for Sailors throughout the ship's lifecycle.
- Crisis Intervention: Assessing and triaging high-risk clients, including those with suicidal ideation, domestic abuse, or child abuse allegations.
- Command Liaison: Acting as the bridge between shipboard leadership and shore-based support systems like the Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC).
- Resiliency Training: Actively engaging the crew in programs that boost mental and emotional readiness.
Core Competencies Comparison
| Feature | Standard Clinical Role | Deployed Resiliency Counselor |
|---|---|---|
| Setting | Office / Clinic | Shipboard / Sea |
| Primary Focus | Traditional therapy | Readiness & Crisis support |
| Travel | Occasional | Frequent (Deployments) |
| Autonomy | High | High (Embedded) |
Requirements
Candidates must meet stringent professional standards to ensure the highest level of care for the fleet:
- Education: A Master's or Doctorate in Social Work, MFT, or Clinical Psychology.
- Licensure: Must hold a current, independent clinical license in any US state.
- Experience: Minimum 18 months of post-licensure clinical work.
- Specialization: Two years of experience in the child and domestic abuse fields.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary of $124,500 per year. Beyond the paycheck, the Navy provides an industry-leading benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Generous paid leave, including federal holidays.
- Robust retirement and 401(k) contributions.
- Access to base facilities, including fitness centers, theaters, and travel services.
Application Tips
When applying, remember that federal HR systems are very specific about documentation. Keep your resume to two pages, ensure all transcripts include the degree conferral date, and verify your clinical license is active and in good standing. Addressing your experience with high-stakes clinical intervention in your resume will help you stand out to the review board.
Serving as a Deployed Resiliency Counselor is a career-defining role. If you are prepared to bring your clinical expertise to the fleet and thrive in a dynamic, high-impact environment, this position offers the rewards of both professional development and public service. Apply today through the official USAJobs platform.
Why This Ffsp Deployed Resiliency Counselor (Drc) Job Matters
Set sail with a purpose: Embark on a unique career journey providing essential mental health support to Sailors serving on the front lines at sea.
Ffsp Deployed Resiliency Counselor (Drc) Job Overview
The Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC) in San Diego is seeking highly motivated Deployed Resiliency Counselors (DRC) to join our team in Coronado, CA. In this vital role, you will embed directly with Navy personnel aboard aircraft carriers and large-deck amphibious ships. You will provide critical clinical counseling, crisis intervention, and resiliency training to active-duty service members, ensuring they remain mission-ready throughout their time at sea or in port. This is an exceptional opportunity to serve those who serve our nation, offering a blend of adventure and professional impact.
Requirements for Ffsp Deployed Resiliency Counselor (Drc)
- Master's or Doctorate degree in Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy, Counseling, or Clinical Psychology from an accredited US institution.
- Current, valid, and unrestricted state clinical license allowing independent practice.
- Minimum of 18 months of full-time, post-licensure clinical experience.
- Two years of specialized experience in child and domestic abuse fields.
- Must meet and maintain Tier II or Tier III SECNAVINST 1754.8 requirements.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- U.S. citizenship requirements apply for installation access.
Preferred Qualifications for Ffsp Deployed Resiliency Counselor (Drc)
- Expertise in military culture, terminology, and shipboard lifestyle dynamics.
- Proven experience in suicide prevention, SAIL case management, and crisis triage.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
- Ability to work in confined environments with limited privacy.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive medical, dental, and life insurance
- ✓Retirement plan with 401(k) options
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- ✓Military exchange and commissary privileges
- ✓Access to MWR facilities including gyms and sports rentals
- ✓Discounted tickets, travel, and recreational programs
- ✓Subsidized childcare options for eligible employees
💡 How to Apply Ffsp Deployed Resiliency Counselor (Drc) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Ffsp Deployed Resiliency Counselor (Drc) Job
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages or less.
- Gather necessary documentation, including academic transcripts, clinical license verification, and any applicable DD-214 or spouse preference forms.
- Navigate to the official USAJobs link provided in the announcement.
- Click the 'Apply' button to be directed to the staffing portal.
- Complete the online questionnaire and upload your supporting documents before the closing date.
- Monitor your email for status updates and notification letters regarding your application progression.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise; federal HR staff are required to discard applications exceeding the two-page limit.
- Clearly highlight your clinical experience post-licensure to ensure your application passes initial screening.
- Verify that your email address is correct and that your inbox is not blocking government communications.
- Ensure all transcripts clearly display your name, the institution, and the date your degree was conferred.
- Tailor your application narrative to reflect experience with high-risk clinical populations, such as domestic violence or suicide intervention.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I actually be living on a ship?
Yes. As a Deployed Resiliency Counselor, you are embedded within the command. You will be serving at sea, which requires comfort with shipboard environments and the unique constraints regarding privacy and daily life onboard.
What happens if I don't have military experience?
While prior military experience is helpful for understanding the culture, it is not strictly required. However, you must demonstrate a strong aptitude for learning military customs and the ability to adapt to the specific demands of a shipboard deployment.
What is the security clearance requirement?
This role requires a Secret security clearance. You will need to meet all background check requirements.
Are there opportunities for professional development?
Yes, the Navy encourages ongoing education to maintain your clinical credentials, as required by the SECNAVINST 1754.8 standards.
Job from Commander, Navy Installations Command
Fleet and Family Readiness (FFR) programs are the backbone of morale and support for the U.S. Navy. Operating under the Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC), these programs support Sailors and their families in every facet of life. From managing stress and mental health to providing child and youth services, the FFR mission is to ensure the emotional and physical well-being of the fleet.