Advancing Mental Health: Clinical Psychologist Role at Naval Medical Center San Diego
In the heart of San Diego, the Naval Medical Center provides critical support to our military community. We are currently highlighting a unique opening for a Clinical Psychologist to join the Defense Health Agency (DHA). This position offers a rare blend of high-level clinical autonomy and the opportunity to serve those who protect our nation. If you are a licensed professional looking for a stable, impactful, and rewarding career in the federal government, this role is for you.
Job Responsibilities
As a Clinical Psychologist, your daily contributions will be vital to the mental health of military personnel. Key responsibilities include:
- Conducting in-depth psychological evaluations and providing accurate DSM-based diagnoses.
- Delivering evidence-based psychotherapy, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
- Managing acute crisis situations, including assessing risks for suicide or homicide.
- Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to ensure continuity of care.
- Facilitating professional development for staff and interns.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Education: A Doctoral Degree (Ph.D. or equivalent) in clinical psychology.
- Licensure: You must hold an active, valid, and unrestricted clinical license to practice independently.
- Experience: At least one year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level or higher.
- Clearance: Ability to maintain a Secret security clearance.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive compensation package commensurate with federal guidelines.
| Pay Scale | Salary Range | Interval |
|---|---|---|
| GS-13 | $121,585 - $158,062 | Per Year |
Benefits
Federal employees enjoy a wide array of benefits designed to support long-term wellness and career satisfaction:
- Comprehensive health insurance with government-contributed premiums.
- Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Paid annual leave, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- Potential recruitment or relocation incentives for top-tier talent.
Application Tips
- Keep it Concise: Your resume must be two pages or less. Avoid fluff; focus on your specialized clinical experience.
- Documentation is Key: Ensure your license is current and uploaded clearly. An incomplete application package due to missing documentation will lead to disqualification.
- Use Plain Language: Avoid overly complex acronyms that a human resources specialist may not immediately recognize.
Serving as a Clinical Psychologist at the Naval Medical Center San Diego is more than just a job; it is a service to the military community. If you possess the required licensure, doctoral background, and a passion for mental health excellence, we encourage you to submit your application by the November 3, 2026 deadline.
Why This Clinical Psychologist (Mental Health) Job Matters
Advance your career in clinical psychology while providing critical mental health care to our nation's military heroes at the prestigious Naval Medical Center San Diego.
Clinical Psychologist (Mental Health) Job Overview
The Defense Health Agency is seeking a dedicated Clinical Psychologist to join the Directorate of Mental Health at the Naval Medical Center in San Diego, California. This role is pivotal in delivering high-quality, evidence-based psychological services within a multidisciplinary team environment. Candidates will engage in comprehensive evaluations, provide individual and group therapy, and collaborate on vital treatment planning to support service members, retirees, and their families.
Requirements for Clinical Psychologist (Mental Health)
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Possession of a Doctoral Degree (Ph.D. or equivalent) in clinical psychology.
- A current, active, valid, and unrestricted clinical license to practice psychology independently.
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 level in the federal service.
- Ability to pass drug testing and background investigations for a Secret security clearance.
- Completion of a one-year probationary period.
Preferred Qualifications for Clinical Psychologist (Mental Health)
- Proven track record in conducting complex behavioral health assessments.
- Expertise in delivering cognitive-behavioral approaches and brief interventions.
- Experience in crisis management and determining appropriate care levels for acute risk.
- Demonstrated ability to develop professional development programs for clinical staff.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with locality pay.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
- ✓Participation in the federal retirement system (FERS).
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives for highly qualified candidates.
- ✓Advanced leave accrual options.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and interdepartmental training.
💡 How to Apply Clinical Psychologist (Mental Health) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Clinical Psychologist (Mental Health) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full vacancy announcement details.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Complete the required online assessment questionnaire.
- Upload your doctoral transcripts, clinical license, and any other relevant certifications.
- Submit your application package by the closing date of November 3, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your relevant work hours per week.
- Avoid using acronyms; use plain language to describe your experience.
- Submit your documents well in advance to account for the document virus scan process.
- Double-check that your license is current and clearly visible in your submitted documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute my education for the required experience?
No. For this specific position, you must meet the qualification requirements using professional experience alone.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, this position requires a Secret level security clearance.
Are there page limits for the resume?
Yes, your resume must be two pages or less. Resumes exceeding this limit will be removed from consideration.
Job from Military Treatment Facilities Under Dha
The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is a joint, integrated combat support agency that enables the military medical services to provide a medically ready force. With a commitment to worldwide health, the DHA serves millions of uniformed service members, retirees, and their families. Working at the Naval Medical Center San Diego places you within an organization that prioritizes excellence, patient safety, and innovation.