Making a Difference: Career Opportunities in Suicide Prevention at the VA
Are you a dedicated mental health professional looking for a career that combines clinical excellence with a profound sense of purpose? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in Spokane, Washington, is currently seeking a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (LPMHC) to serve as a Suicide Prevention Case Manager. This role offers the opportunity to provide life-saving intervention and support to those who have defended our nation.
Job Responsibilities
As a Suicide Prevention Case Manager, you will operate at the intersection of clinical care and crisis management. Key duties include:
- Providing weekly clinical contact for high-risk Veterans recently discharged from inpatient care.
- Updating safety plans and conducting suicide-specific assessments in collaboration with treatment teams.
- Offering evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
- Facilitating community integration and social service referrals.
- Responding to consults from the National Veterans Crisis Line.
Grade Comparison Table
| Feature | GS-9 (Entry) | GS-11 (Full Performance) |
|---|---|---|
| Supervision | Closely supervised | Independent practice |
| Complexity | Standard clinical tasks | Complex crisis intervention |
| Experience | Less than one year | 1+ year post-master's |
Requirements
To be considered for this position, candidates must meet the following federal standards:
- Hold a master’s or doctoral degree from a CACREP-accredited program.
- Maintain a full, current, and unrestricted license to practice independently.
- Demonstrate proficiency in English.
- Successfully pass a background investigation and physical evaluation.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $66,383 to $104,419 per year, commensurate with experience and the specific grade level assigned.
Benefits
Beyond a competitive salary, the VA offers an industry-leading benefits package, including:
- Student Loan Assistance: Eligibility for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP).
- Work-Life Balance: Generous annual leave and federal holiday schedules.
- Health and Wellness: Comprehensive health insurance, dental, and vision coverage.
Application Tips
- Use the Template: Use the VA-provided clinical resume document to ensure you meet format requirements.
- Be Detailed: Clearly define your dates of employment and specific clinical duties in your resume.
- Prepare Early: Gather your transcripts and license documentation well in advance of the deadline.
Serving as a Suicide Prevention Case Manager is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the health and safety of our nation's heroes. If you possess the clinical skills and the compassion to help Veterans navigate their toughest moments, we encourage you to apply today.
Why This Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor- Suicide Prevention Case Manager Job Matters
Make a life-saving impact as a Suicide Prevention Case Manager with the VA in Spokane, Washington. Join a mission-driven team dedicated to the mental health and well-being of our nation’s Veterans.
Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor- Suicide Prevention Case Manager Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a compassionate and skilled Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (LPMHC) to join our Suicide Prevention team in Spokane. In this vital role, you will provide comprehensive case management, crisis intervention, and evidence-based mental health support to Veterans identified as being at high risk for suicide. You will collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to ensure our Veterans receive continuous, high-quality care that honors their service and sacrifices.
Requirements for Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor- Suicide Prevention Case Manager
- U.S. Citizenship
- Master's or doctoral degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling or a related field from a CACREP-accredited program
- Full, current, and unrestricted license to independently practice as an LPMHC
- English language proficiency
- Pass a pre-employment physical and background/security investigation
- Completion of a 1 or 2-year trial period
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor- Suicide Prevention Case Manager
- Experience in suicide prevention and crisis intervention
- Direct experience working with the Veteran population
- Certification or specialized training in evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Student Loan Repayment through the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP)
- âś“Federal leave accrual based on years of service
- âś“Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans
- âś“Professional development and training opportunities
- âś“Supportive and collaborative clinical environment
đź’ˇ How to Apply Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor- Suicide Prevention Case Manager Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor- Suicide Prevention Case Manager Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account
- Prepare your resume detailing monthly start/end dates and hours worked per week
- Download and complete the required standard Clinical Resume template
- Submit your online application and questionnaire through the USAJOBS portal
- Upload all necessary supporting documents including transcripts and licenses
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Be specific about your clinical experience—do not rely on the hiring committee to make assumptions
- Ensure your resume clearly lists full-time versus part-time status and specific duties for each role
- Use the official Clinical Resume document provided by the VA to avoid disqualification
- Double-check that your license is current and unrestricted
- Submit your application early to allow time for technical troubleshooting
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for student loan repayment?
Yes, this position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP). Eligibility and award amounts are determined by the VHA Education Loan Repayment Services office after a formal review.
What is the work schedule for this position?
The position operates on a standard Monday through Friday schedule, from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.
Can I apply if I am not yet licensed for independent practice?
The GS-9 entry level may accommodate those working toward independent licensure; however, the GS-11 full performance level requires a full, current, and unrestricted license to practice independently.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States, providing comprehensive care to millions of Veterans. Our mission is built on the "I CARE" values: Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence. Working at the Spokane VA means becoming part of a community that values both the clinical growth of its practitioners and the holistic well-being of the Veterans they serve.