Overview

Psychiatrists in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) are part of the Medical Specialist occupation and provide care and clinical leadership in mental health services at CAF Health Services facilities across Canada. They work closely with primary health care providers and multidisciplinary teams to optimize patient care for CAF members. Telepsychiatry is available to assist members in remote areas or on international operations. CAF psychiatrists may also participate in military operations and training, and can be involved in research, policy development, mentorship, and education of other health professionals and military members.

Primary Responsibilities

• Provide clinical care for CAF members in Canada, including diagnostic assessments, medication management, collaboration with the multidisciplinary mental health team, and support to primary care clinicians in determining operational readiness and restrictions related to mental disorders.


• Provide subject matter expert recommendations and advice to local and regional Canadian Forces Health Services Clinic medical leadership and local military leadership.


• Contribute to the development and application of mental health‑related policies within the CAF.

Work Environment

Psychiatrists work in mental health services clinics co‑located with Canadian Forces Health Services Clinics on army, air force and naval bases. Teams include mental health nurses, psychologists, addiction counsellors, social workers and administrative support. Telepsychiatry is used to reach members remotely or deployed.

Entry Plans

• Direct Entry: Must be a member of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada and have an unrestricted license to practise psychiatry in a Canadian province or territory.

Training

All entrants complete Basic Military Officer Qualification training, including two weeks of distance learning and four weeks of in‑house training. The Basic Medical Officer Course (BMOC) at the Canadian Forces Health Services Training Centre follows, lasting about six weeks. Psychiatrists may pursue sub‑specialty fellowships, aviation medicine training, and other postgraduate courses.

Benefits

A competitive compensation and advantages package is available for this medical specialization.

For more information or to apply, contact HSRecruiting‑[email protected] and indicate "MEDICAL SPECIALIST" in the subject line.