Advance Your Nursing Career: Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at the VA
Are you an experienced Advanced Practice Nurse with a passion for mental health? The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is currently hiring a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in Chesapeake County, Virginia. This role offers a unique opportunity to serve those who have served our country while working in a collaborative, research-driven environment. With competitive federal pay and an extensive benefits package, this is an ideal role for clinicians looking to elevate their professional impact.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will independently manage a panel of patients, addressing both acute and chronic mental health needs. Key duties include:
- Developing individualized care plans based on evidence-based practice.
- Ordering and interpreting diagnostic studies and prescribing medications.
- Collaborating with Primary Care teams and specialists.
- Educating patients and families on disease management and mental health wellness.
- Contributing to facility-wide quality improvement initiatives.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must meet the basic educational requirements—a master’s or doctoral degree as a Nurse Practitioner from an accredited school of nursing. Additionally, you must possess an active, unrestricted license and board certification as a PMHNP. Applicants must pass a pre-employment physical and drug screening and be eligible for security clearance.
Grade Comparison
| Grade | Requirement | Key Expectation |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse II | Basic Education | Entry-level proficiency, clinical management |
| Nurse III | Education + 1 year experience | Leadership, complex care, research implementation |
Salary Overview
This position provides a robust salary structure, ranging from $145,316 to $210,654 per year. The final offer is determined based on the applicant's depth of clinical experience, education, and specific grade-level assessment.
Benefits
- Time Off: Enjoy 50 days of total leave, including 26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave.
- Retirement: Secure your future with a federal pension and a 401k program with agency matching up to 5%.
- Loan Repayment: Access the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) with potential awards up to $200,000.
- Health Coverage: Premium federal health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
Application Tips
- Use the Template: Always use the VA-specific Clinical Resume document linked on the VA Careers page.
- Be Specific: Do not leave gaps in your work history; provide clear, descriptive examples of your clinical expertise.
- Documents: Ensure your PMHNP-BC certification and nursing license are scanned clearly and uploaded with your application.
The role of a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner within the VA is more than just a job—it is a calling. With significant loan repayment options, generous time off, and a mission-driven culture, this role in Chesapeake County offers an unparalleled career path. Apply today to help us care for those who have borne the battle.
Why This Advanced Practice Nurse (Mental Health) Job Matters
Transform lives and honor our Veterans by joining the VA as an Advanced Practice Nurse (Mental Health). Apply your expertise in a role that values holistic, patient-centered care.
Advanced Practice Nurse (Mental Health) Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner to join our Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Service Line in Chesapeake County, Virginia. This position focuses on providing advanced clinical practice, management, and consultation for Veterans, utilizing evidence-based care to improve outcomes in a supportive, interdisciplinary environment.
Requirements for Advanced Practice Nurse (Mental Health)
- U.S. Citizenship (subject to exceptions when recruitment needs dictate).
- Active, current, full, and unrestricted Advanced Practice Nurse license in a U.S. state, territory, or DC.
- Master's or doctoral degree as a Nurse Practitioner from an accredited institution.
- Current board certification as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP).
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Successful completion of a pre-employment physical and drug screening.
- Background investigation and security clearance eligibility.
Preferred Qualifications for Advanced Practice Nurse (Mental Health)
- One year of specialized APN experience equivalent to the Nurse II grade level for higher-tier consideration.
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex patient panels using evidence-based interventions.
- Experience leading interdisciplinary teams to improve population health outcomes.
- Strong communication skills and a commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Competitive salary with regular increases and performance bonuses.
- âś“Generous PTO: 26 days annual leave, 13 days sick leave, and 11 paid Federal holidays.
- âś“Federal retirement benefits including a pension plan and 401k with matching.
- âś“Comprehensive insurance: Health, vision, dental, term life, and long-term care.
- âś“Eligibility for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) student loan reimbursement (up to $200,000).
đź’ˇ How to Apply Advanced Practice Nurse (Mental Health) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Advanced Practice Nurse (Mental Health) Job
- Review your eligibility and ensure all required documentation is prepared.
- Create or log into your account at USAJOBS.
- Download the standard Clinical Resume Document from the VA Careers website.
- Complete the mandatory online questionnaire.
- Submit your formal application package, including resume, license, and certification, through the online portal.
- Monitor your email for status updates and follow-up requests.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Use the specific VA Clinical Resume template to avoid processing delays.
- Be detailed and specific about your clinical experience, as assumptions regarding your history cannot be made.
- Upload your full, unrestricted license and PMHNP board certification promptly.
- Verify your eligibility for Veterans' Preference and include the necessary DD-214 or SF-15 documents.
- Check your application status regularly via your USAJOBS account dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the salary range for this position?
The position offers an annual salary range of $145,316 to $210,654 depending on experience, education, and grade level.
Is student loan repayment available?
Yes, this position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which offers student loan reimbursement up to $200,000 based on program approval.
Can I work remotely?
No, this is not a virtual position and requires on-site work in Chesapeake County, Virginia.
Is this role eligible for student loan repayment?
Yes, it is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program.
Does the VA provide insurance that carries into retirement?
Yes, many federal insurance programs can be maintained throughout your retirement years.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing compassionate, holistic, and state-of-the-art care to American Veterans. The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the U.S., fostering an environment of clinical excellence, innovation, and unwavering support for our nation's heroes. By joining the VHA, you become part of an interdisciplinary team that prioritizes Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence (ICARE).