Someone shoots and kills the executive officer (XO) of a Naval vessel, a commander, in his own stateroom; Gibbs and company investigate. However, a shrink (a persistent and presumptuous one) arrives to conduct mandatory psychologic evaluations for all members of the gang, and she accompanies them aboard the ship. Ziva recognizes the spent brass as Russian. Word of the murder spreads fast, for seven international journalists are aboard as guests; one reporter makes a confession and reveals a potential powder keg. The team continue, and they eventually find the solution. Meanwhile, the shrink also continues, eliciting a number of flashbacks, mostly related to Kate Todd, a former member and special agent. Eventually Tony and Gibbs realize who the shrink is, then she submits her report to the director.

Agent Parker steps up to protect Director Vance after a terrifying home invasion. The team detects advancements in Jessica and Jimmy's blossoming romance.