Advance Your Career as a Staff Psychologist with the VA in Fayetteville
Are you a dedicated clinical psychologist looking for a role that combines professional growth with a deeply meaningful mission? The Veterans Health Care Systems of the Ozarks is currently seeking a highly motivated Staff Psychologist for its Trauma Recovery Program. This position offers a unique chance to provide life-changing, evidence-based care to the brave men and women who have served our country.
About the Veterans Health Care Systems of the Ozarks
Located in the heart of the scenic Ozark Mountains, Fayetteville, Arkansas, is more than just a place to work—it is a community that values quality of life. Home to the University of Arkansas and surrounded by natural beauty, the area offers hiking, water sports, and a rich cultural scene. As a VA employee, you will be joining an agency committed to the core values of integrity, advocacy, and excellence in healthcare.
Job Responsibilities
As a Staff Psychologist, you will serve as a key member of a multidisciplinary team. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Providing assessment, evaluation, and follow-up care for Veterans with PTSD.
- Delivering evidence-based psychotherapy (EBP) using modalities like ACT-D, CBT-D, and IPT-D.
- Implementing Measurement-Based Care (MBC) to track treatment progress.
- Conducting suicide risk assessments and developing comprehensive safety plans.
- Facilitating interdisciplinary treatment planning and participating in community meetings.
- Providing consultative services to other healthcare professionals.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen.
- Education: A doctoral degree in psychology from an APA, PCSAS, or CPA accredited institution.
- Internship: Successful completion of an accredited professional psychology internship.
- Licensure: A full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology.
- Standards: Proficiency in English and ability to pass a background/security investigation.
Salary and Benefits Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $85,485 - $158,393 per year |
| Student Loan Repayment | EDRP eligible (up to $200,000) |
| Paid Time Off | 37-50 total days per year |
| Insurance | Federal Health, Dental, Vision, Life |
| Retirement | Pension plan + 401(k) matching |
Why Join the VA?
Beyond a competitive salary, the VA provides stability and a comprehensive benefits package that is hard to match in the private sector. The Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) is a significant advantage, potentially removing the burden of student loans while you focus on patient care. With generous annual and sick leave, plus paid parental leave, the VA actively supports your work-life balance.
Application Tips for Success
- Use the Required Resume: Download and use the VA’s standard Clinical Resume document. It is specifically designed to help recruiters process your application quickly.
- Quantify Your Experience: Be clear about your duties. Don't just list your tasks; describe how you applied evidence-based practices in your past roles.
- Double-Check Documentation: Ensure that your license, transcripts, and SF-50 (if applicable) are clearly scanned and uploaded.
This role is an excellent opportunity for an experienced psychologist to make a tangible difference in the mental health of our nation's Veterans. If you are passionate about evidence-based clinical practice and want to work in an environment that values professional growth, apply to join the Veterans Health Care Systems of the Ozarks today.
Why This Staff Psychologist - Trauma Recovery Program (Trp) Job Matters
Make a transformative impact in the Ozarks by helping Veterans reclaim their lives through expert, evidence-based trauma recovery.
Staff Psychologist - Trauma Recovery Program (Trp) Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Staff Psychologist to join the Trauma Recovery Program at the Veterans Health Care Systems of the Ozarks in Fayetteville, Arkansas. This role is pivotal in delivering specialized, evidence-based clinical services to Veterans struggling with PTSD and comorbid conditions. You will work within an interdisciplinary team, utilizing modern telehealth modalities and innovative clinical strategies to provide comprehensive care. This position offers a rewarding career path with competitive compensation, generous leave, and a high quality of life in a scenic mountain setting.
Requirements for Staff Psychologist - Trauma Recovery Program (Trp)
- U.S. Citizenship (with limited exceptions).
- Doctoral degree in psychology from an APA, PCSAS, or CPA accredited program.
- Completion of a professional psychology internship accredited by APA or CPA.
- Full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Must undergo a background/security investigation and initial drug screening.
- Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Ability to complete a 1 or 2-year trial period.
Preferred Qualifications for Staff Psychologist - Trauma Recovery Program (Trp)
- Extensive experience in the mental health field working with adult populations.
- Proficiency in Evidence-Based Psychotherapies such as CBT-D, ACT, IPT, CBT-I, and DPT.
- Demonstrated expertise in delivering mental health care via telehealth.
- Proven history of effective collaboration within multidisciplinary treatment teams.
- Skilled in conducting PTSD-specific assessments and evidence-based interventions.
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple responsibilities effectively under pressure.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility up to $200,000.
- ✓Federal pension plan and 401(k) with employer matching.
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
- ✓Generous paid time off: 13-26 days of annual leave, 13 sick days, and 11 federal holidays.
- ✓Paid parental leave for birth, adoption, or foster care.
- ✓Childcare subsidy program for eligible employees.
- ✓Professional growth opportunities and regular salary increases.
💡 How to Apply Staff Psychologist - Trauma Recovery Program (Trp) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Staff Psychologist - Trauma Recovery Program (Trp) Job
- Review the full job announcement and requirements.
- Log in or create an account on USAJOBS.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Prepare your resume using the required standard Clinical Resume format.
- Upload all required documentation, including license, transcripts, and any applicable SF-50 forms.
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Use the provided Clinical Resume template to ensure your application meets formatting standards.
- Be specific and thorough in your descriptions of duties, including dates and average hours worked.
- Ensure your license status is current and clearly documented in your package.
- Double-check your questionnaire responses before submitting to avoid errors that could disqualify your application.
- Reach out to the listed agency contact for assistance before the deadline if you face technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for loan repayment?
Yes, this role is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which provides student loan reimbursement up to $200,000 based on program approval.
What is the work environment like in Fayetteville?
Fayetteville is located in the Ozark Mountains, offering a high quality of life with affordable housing, excellent schools, and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Do I need to be licensed to apply?
Yes, a full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level is a mandatory requirement.
Is relocation assistance provided?
No, Permanent Change of Station (PCS) or relocation assistance is not authorized for this specific vacancy.
Can I work from home?
This is not a virtual position. While some clinical work involves telehealth modalities, you are expected to be onsite at the facility.