Overview
As a member of the military, Mental Health Nursing Officers provide nursing care in the mental health nursing domain of practice to ill and injured Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members and supported populations in tertiary and primary care environments in Canada and while on operation.

Key Responsibilities

Patient partnered care

Crisis management

Case coordination

Consulting services

Policy and Program management

Education and Training

Work Environment
Mental Health Nursing Officers usually work in Canadian Force Health Services Centres, civilian tertiary care centres, and Headquarters. They may be based in an office at a base, wing, or garrison and deploy overseas on operational missions. During field exercises and deployments, they live and work in the same environment as the CAF members they treat. Depending on whether one chooses the Regular or Primary Reserve Force, postings can involve relocation or be more localized, and part‑time Reserve officers typically work one night per week and some weekend shifts.

Entry Plans
Direct Entry through In‑Service Selection. Nurses who join through any entry plan can, upon selection,



further specialize as a Mental Health Nursing Officer and progress in ranks.

Direct Entry Requirements

University degree and licence to practice as a Registered Nurse in a Canadian province or territory.

Civilian nursing experience in a mental health setting.

CAF may place such nurses directly into a Mental Health Nursing Officer role after an evaluation of experience and completion of required education and certification.

Training & Certification
After completing Rank Qualification Lieutenant training, officers may need to complete a formal mental health nursing course and obtain a certification. The course is delivered through designated curriculum at Canadian civilian tertiary and Forces Health Services Centres. Officers may also pursue additional specialised courses, such as:

Addiction

General Mental Health Services

Psychosocial Services

Counseling

Management

Policy and Program Management

Part‑Time Options
Reserve Force officers receive the same training as Regular Counterparts. They may work part‑time, but should verify that their civilian experience meets job requirements.

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📌 Mental Health Nursing Officer (Nova Scotia)
🏢 Canadian Armed Forces | Forces armées canadiennes
📍 Nova Scotia