Empowering Communities: Mental Health Specialist Role at IHS

Are you a dedicated clinician looking to make a transformative impact on mental health? The Indian Health Service (IHS) is currently seeking a compassionate and skilled Mental Health Specialist to serve the Blackfeet community in Browning, Montana.

Job Responsibilities

In this role, you will provide professional counseling services to patients dealing with various psychiatric and emotional difficulties. Key responsibilities include:

Clinical Care: Designing and executing individualized treatment plans.
Case Management: Coordinating intensive care and facilitating referrals to non-IHS facilities.
Crisis Support: Providing interventions for life-threatening emergencies and supporting individuals with co-occurring disorders.
Documentation: Maintaining accurate health records using the Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.

Comparison Table: GS-9 vs GS-11 Requirements

Requirement	GS-9 Level	GS-11 Level
Experience	1 Year Specialized	1 Year Specialized
Education	Master’s or Equivalent	Ph.D. or Equivalent
Selective Factor	None	Unrestricted LCPC or LCSW

Requirements for Success

Applicants must demonstrate strong ethical standards and professional judgment. You must be a U.S. citizen, pass a federal background investigation, and adhere to financial suitability requirements. Proficiency in therapeutic techniques, attention to detail, and stress tolerance are vital to performing these duties effectively.

Salary Overview

This position is classified within the GS pay scale with a salary range of $61,722 to $97,087 annually, depending on experience and qualifications.

Benefits

Employees of the Indian Health Service enjoy a robust federal benefits package, including:

Competitive annual leave and sick leave accrual.
Opportunities for federal retirement planning.
Comprehensive health insurance and life insurance options.
Recruitment and relocation incentives for eligible candidates.

Application Tips

Refine Your Resume: Clearly state your duties and the number of hours worked per week in previous roles.
Check Your Documents: Ensure all transcripts, licenses, and veteran preference forms (if applicable) are uploaded before the closing date.
Prepare for Assessments: Be ready to complete the USA Hire assessments once notified.
Stay Proactive: Communicate promptly with your assigned Personnel Security Specialist if you are asked to begin the background investigation process.

Serving the Blackfeet community as a Mental Health Specialist is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to provide essential clinical support where it is needed most. If you possess the required clinical skills and a desire to improve health outcomes, apply today to join the Indian Health Service.

Why This Mental Health Specialist Job Matters

Make a meaningful impact on mental health within the Blackfeet community as a Mental Health Specialist with the Indian Health Service.

Mental Health Specialist Job Overview

The Indian Health Service (IHS) is seeking a dedicated Mental Health Specialist to join the Behavioral Health Department at the Blackfeet Service Unit in Browning, Montana. This role focuses on providing culturally sensitive, professional counseling services to patients managing a range of psychiatric and emotional challenges. You will serve as an integral part of an interdisciplinary team dedicated to improving health outcomes for American Indian and Alaska Native populations.

Requirements for Mental Health Specialist

U.S. Citizenship
Must be able to pass a federal background investigation
Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959
Ability to obtain and maintain medical staff clinical privileges and required licensure
Unrestricted LCPC or LCSW license required for GS-11 positions
Pass the E-Verify employment verification check
Demonstrate financial responsibility as part of suitability screening

Preferred Qualifications for Mental Health Specialist

One year of specialized experience at the GS-7 level for GS-9 roles
One year of specialized experience at the GS-9 level for GS-11 roles
Advanced graduate education (Master’s or Ph.D.) in social science or related fields
Expertise in suicide prevention, substance abuse, and crisis intervention
Proficiency in Electronic Health Records (EHR) documentation

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary and annual leave accrual
✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives
✓Comprehensive health insurance options
✓Professional interdisciplinary environment
✓Meaningful career path serving the American Indian and Alaska Native community

💡 How to Apply Mental Health Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Mental Health Specialist Job

Register and log in to your USAJOBS account.
Click the 'Apply Online' button to start your application.
Complete the required questionnaire and upload your supporting documents.
Submit your application package before 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
Monitor your email for a unique link to the USA Hire assessment if notified.
Track your application status through the USAJOBS portal.

💡 General Tips

Tailor your resume to clearly demonstrate specialized experience and hours worked per week.
Ensure all documentation, including transcripts and licenses, is legible and attached.
Set aside at least two hours to complete the USA Hire assessments if required.
Prioritize the background investigation forms if you are selected to ensure timely processing.
Review your application for accuracy before the submission deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary location for this position?

This position is located at the Blackfeet Service Unit in Browning, Montana.

Is Indian Preference applicable to this role?

Yes, Indian Preference applies. Qualified applicants must provide Form BIA-4432 to claim this preference.

Are there specific licensure requirements for the GS-11 grade?

Yes, a selective factor for GS-11 is an unrestricted license as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) or Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW).

Job from Indian Health Service

The Indian Health Service (IHS) is a federal agency within the Department of Health and Human Services. We are committed to raising the physical, mental, social, and spiritual health of American Indians and Alaska Natives to the highest level. By joining our team, you become part of a professional, interdisciplinary network that values innovation, community connection, and compassionate patient care.