We are excited to share some incredible news for licensed professional mental health counselors: You are officially eligible to join the USPHS Commissioned Corps, opening up a new career path filled with opportunities to make an impact throughout the country. 

NBCC is proud to say that our organization, in collaboration with our stakeholders and counselors from across the nation, advocated for this change, and now we can happily report the time for counselors working in the USPHS Commissioned Corps is here! 

The USPHS Commissioned Corps stands as a dependable defender of the nation's health. With a mission to protect, promote, and advance the health and safety of our nation, this elite group of public health professionals plays a crucial role in responding to health crises, conducting research, and implementing health initiatives.  

What Is the USPHS Commissioned Corps?  

The USPHS Commissioned Corps is one of the nation’s seven uniformed services. Comprising over 6,000 officers, the Corps is made up of health professionals from various fields, including medicine, nursing, dentistry, pharmacy, and now, mental health counseling. These dedicated individuals serve in federal agencies like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the Indian Health Service (IHS), among others. 

A Day in the Life of a USPHS Commissioned Corps Officer 

No one day is the same. Officers in the Corps wear many hats. They might be on the front lines during natural disasters, providing critical health services to affected communities. They could also be engaging in research that shapes national health policies or developing programs aimed at improving public health outcomes. The responsibilities are as diverse as the health challenges facing our nation, and each officer contributes to the overarching goal of enhancing the health of all Americans.  

A New Opportunity for Mental Health Counselors  

The inclusion of licensed professional mental health counselors in the USPHS Commissioned Corps is a game-changer for the profession of mental health counseling. Mental health counselors bring a unique set of skills that are desperately needed in various settings, particularly in times of crisis. Whether responding to the mental health fallout from natural disasters, addressing the needs of underserved populations, or contributing to national mental health initiatives, mental health counselors can play a vital role in improving mental wellness across the country.  

Why Join the USPHS? 

Career Advancement: Joining the USPHS Commissioned Corps not only elevates your career but also positions you as a leader in public health. The opportunity to serve alongside other health professionals in a respected and uniformed service offers a sense of camaraderie and purpose that is hard to find elsewhere.  

Competitive Pay: Officers in the USPHS Commissioned Corps receive competitive salaries based on their rank and years of service. As a licensed professional mental health counselor, you could expect to earn a salary commensurate with your experience and qualifications, along with additional benefits that may include health insurance, retirement plans, and paid vacations.  

Professional Development: USPHS invests in the training and professional development of its officers. You’ll have access to ongoing education and training opportunities, ensuring that you remain at the cutting edge of mental health practices and public health strategies. 

Responsibilities of a Mental Health Counselor in the USPHS Commissioned Corps  

As a licensed professional mental health counselor in the USPHS Commissioned Corps, your responsibilities would span a wide range of activities, including: 

• Providing direct counseling services: delivering mental health assessments, therapy, and support to individuals and groups in various settings, particularly where mental health resources are scarce
• Crisis intervention: responding to urgent mental health needs in times of public health emergencies or natural disasters, working alongside other health professionals to deliver comprehensive care
• Program development and implementation: creating and overseeing mental health programs tailored to specific communities, ensuring that mental health services are culturally competent and accessible
• Education and advocacy: promoting mental health awareness and education in communities, advocating for policies that enhance mental health services and reduce stigma

How to Apply: 

If you’re ready to embark on this exciting journey, you can start your application process to become a member of the USPHS Commissioned Corps by visiting the official website: https://usphs.gov/. Please note that the USPHS website is currently undergoing updates, and licensed professional mental health counselors will be added as an eligible profession soon. In the meantime, you may still apply for this opportunity.  

For any questions or additional information, you can reach out to the USPHS Recruitment Team at 1-800-225-3302 or by email at phsos-cadquestions@hhs.gov. Please note that if it appears you are not eligible, you are recommended to still apply, because the USPHS may request a waiver to make you eligible to become a USPHS Commissioned Corps member.