Posted on Oct 24, 2023
Why are some former military psychologists not eligible for VA employment?
2.35K
5
3
1
1
0
Despite continued difficulty filling psychologist positions, the VA continues to require psychologists to have completed a predoctoral internship approved by the American Psychological Association, a requirement essentially dropped by the DOD years ago. While an exemption may be permitted for psychologists who completed a non-approved internship and obtained a doctoral degree between 1951 and 1978, this is not provided for psychologists who obtained their degree outside of this interval. There is no provision for former military or DOD civilian psychologists to qualify for VA positions if they do not meet the requirements noted above.
Posted in these groups: 
Veterans Affairs (VA)
Psychology
Veterans Affairs (VA) Psychology
Posted 7 mo ago
Responses: 2
2
2
0
Our needs are complex. Up to date training is essential. Though nationwide shortages of psychiatrists and psychologists are rampant and growing, lowering standards is not the solution. And in my opinion, the fact that the VA continues to keep the bar high is to be applauded.
(2)
(0)
1
1
0
Because DOD is protected by a doctrine, that I forget the name of, that protects them from malpractice claims. It has only been since I retired that MDs, DOs needed a license. When you are a GI, the guvment can pretty much do what they want to you, with you, etc. VA does not have that luxury.
(1)
(0)
LTC Bruce Nathanson
For at least the last 30 years, the DOD has required psychologists to be licensed, and they also must initially and periodically be credentialed and privileged at the Medical Treatment Facility where they provide services. Are you implying that the VA is better ensuring the competence of the psychologists it hires by continuing to make pre-degree practicum training a basis for exclusion regardless of their later experience?
(1)
(0)
Read This Next
Continue with Facebook 
Continue with Google