Her Story
About Rachel
Rachel Prokop, Psy.D., is a licensed clinical and aeromedical psychologist, U.S. Army Major, and Clinical Health Psychology Fellow whose career bridges military psychology, aviation medicine, and behavioral health. She earned her Doctorate of Psychology in Clinical Psychology from Midwestern University in 2017, following a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology. Since joining the U.S. Army, Rachel has served in a range of psychological roles, including clinical psychology resident, aeromedical psychologist, brigade behavioral health officer, and licensed clinical and aeromedical psychologist. She currently serves as a Health Psychology Fellow, bringing extensive experience in clinical care, education, research, and psychological readiness.
Rachel’s professional focus includes aeromedical and aviation psychology, health psychology, PTSD and trauma treatment, resilience, and human performance. Her clinical training includes approaches such as EMDR, cognitive processing therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, combat operational stress control, traumatic event management, biofeedback, and hypnosis. She has also contributed to professional education through presentations and research on military aviation, psychological health, and burnout prevention. Her work addressing burnout and resilience in nursing reflects her broader commitment to helping healthcare professionals and military personnel maintain psychological well-being while meeting demanding professional responsibilities.
A dedicated scholar and leader, Rachel was recently named a Fellow of the American Psychological Association and has been recognized for her contributions to military and aviation psychology, including the U.S. Army Flight Surgeons’ Outstanding Aeromedical Achievement Award. She is the author of The Role of Health Psychology in Military Aviation Medicine, a publication examining the role of psychology in aviation readiness, resilience, and performance. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Rachel values mentorship, collaboration, service, and the support of those around her. Her career reflects a commitment to advancing psychology while serving those who protect and support others.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Rachel
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success largely to the people around me who have supported, encouraged, and pushed me to pursue opportunities and challenges. Their support has been one of the biggest factors in my growth and achievements.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Some of the best career advice I’ve received came through the mentorship of Dr. Paulette Selmy, who introduced me to the possibility of serving in the military as a psychologist, and Dr. Tracy Durham, who guided and supported me throughout my decade of work in aeromedical psychology. Their mentorship encouraged me to pursue opportunities I may not have otherwise considered.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I encourage young women to take on opportunities that feel challenging or even a little scary, because those experiences often lead to the greatest growth. Don’t be afraid to lean on your peers and mentors for guidance and support, while also learning to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of my biggest challenges is overcoming imposter syndrome and the fear that I may not be doing enough when someone comes to me for help. At the same time, working in the military has given me opportunities and support that have helped shield me from some of the challenges my civilian colleagues experience in psychology.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I value work-life balance and believe it is essential in both my professional and personal life. The military and psychology can be demanding, so I make time for self-care at least once or twice a week to recharge and maintain balance.
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