Valeria Martinez-Kaigi is a health psychologist, a Captain in the CT Army National Guard, and a wife and mom. “As a clinical health psychologist, I have the privilege of working in both the military and civilian sectors,” says Valeria.
She is currently serving in the Connecticut Army National Guard with the Medical Readiness Detachment. Valeria says that her military experience has enriched her civilian career and life in ways she didn’t expect. “When I felt a calling several years ago to serve the military community, I had no idea of the extensive knowledge I would gain in leadership and the opportunities for personal development that awaited me,” she says.
In honor of Veteran’s Day, we asked Valeria to share more about her experience in the military, what she would tell parents whose children are considering joining the service, and how she suggests teaching children about Veterans Day and showing appreciation for our Veterans. Please read her Meet a Mom interview below:
Please tell us a little bit about your family, and your professional background.
I am a mother to a beautiful 4-year-old girl named Analicia who is recently enthusiastic about gymnastics and enjoys practice weekly. I have been happily married to her wonderful dad, Amos, for the past ten years. Amos and I met on our college campus during graduate school. He also serves in the Army National Guard in a full-time active-duty position. We are fortunate to live in the lovely town of Milford, Connecticut, near the beach for the past six years.
I have clinical expertise in collaborating with interdisciplinary medical teams to provide comprehensive care. In my civilian roles, I serve as the Chief of Health Psychology at Override Health, a digital health company. In this capacity, I play a key role in developing and implementing health psychology programs that align with our interdisciplinary pain management and patient care strategies. I also maintain a small telehealth practice called Amani Center for Health and Well-being.
Additionally, I work as a Research Psychologist in the Depression Research Program at Yale School of Medicine, where I am part of a research team conducting clinical trials on multimodal treatment approaches for depression. We are currently studying the efficacy of ketamine and cognitive behavioral therapy for major depression, suicidal ideation, and depression in patients with Parkinson’s Disease.
Can you please tell us a bit more about your military experience?
I am a Captain and a 73B Clinical Psychologist serving as a Medical Service Corps officer in the United States Army Medical Department Regiment. As a trained medical officer, I can provide gold-standard behavioral health care to soldiers in combat and support their annual medical readiness assessments stateside. Currently, I serve in the Connecticut Army National Guard with the Medical Readiness Detachment.
Thank you for your service! How does being a member of the CT Army National Guard help you as a psychologist?
As a member of the military community, I am positioned to deliver optimal care to veterans and military service members, drawing on my specialized training in both military and civilian settings. My experience with Army Warrior Tasks, combined with a thorough understanding of the military community, enhances my insight into the psychosocial aspects of the health and well-being for this population.
This dual perspective allows me to effectively address the complex needs of veterans and service members, facilitating a comprehensive approach to their behavioral health care. Through this integration of knowledge and experience, I strive to provide tailored interventions that acknowledge the unique challenges faced by those who have served.
What was the hardest aspect of your military journey?
One of the most challenging aspects of this journey is the combat field training that all medical officers must complete and pass with proficiency. This training is both physically and mentally rigorous, pushing me to my limits and fostering resilience that extends beyond the battlefield.
What advice would you give any parents who have children considering going into the military?
Most people are not aware of all the benefits that come with serving in the military, so parents, please consider the following when discussing education and career options with your kids. Upon enlisting or commissioning in the Army, you will be encouraged to embody the seven core values of the U.S. Army: duty, honor, integrity, loyalty, personal courage, respect, and selfless service. Whether you join right out of high school or later in life, a military career can provide a solid foundation for financial stability, foster personal growth, and enhance self-efficacy and work ethic.
Specifically, the Army offers extensive benefits in education and training, including access to programs like the GI Bill, tuition assistance, student loan repayment, and specialized training in various fields to advance one’s education and career. Service members and their families receive quality health care, including comprehensive medical and dental coverage. If planning for the future is a priority, retirement benefits such as a pension plan will ensure financial security after a set number of years of service, along with options for contributions to the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). Additionally, there are options for access to on-base housing or housing allowances to help cover living expenses. A military career also promotes career advancement, offering opportunities for promotions, leadership training, and skills development that can enhance your prospects both within and beyond the military.
What are some ways we can talk to our kids about what Veterans Day means, and how can we all thank Veterans on this day – and any day?
Talking to kids about Veterans Day can be both meaningful and educational. Our veterans and military service members inspire my own decision to serve in the armed forces. Millions have sacrificed their lives and health for the freedoms and privileges we enjoy as U.S. citizens. I honor their commitment by providing gold-standard mental health care. It’s important to encourage our youth to recognize the sacrifices made by the military community and to appreciate their ongoing contributions. We can show our gratitude by supporting veteran-owned businesses, sending care packages to deployed soldiers, and seeking volunteer opportunities at veteran organizations, such as food banks or community service projects. These actions can teach kids the value of giving back.