Advance Your Clinical Career: Senior Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (BHIP) in Alaska
Are you a seasoned clinician looking for a role that combines high-level professional responsibility with the unique adventure of living in Alaska? The Department of Veterans Affairs is currently seeking a Senior Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (LPMHC) to serve the Alaska VA Healthcare System in Anchorage. This is a vital position for professionals ready to lead, mentor, and provide exceptional mental health care to our nation’s heroes.
Job Responsibilities
As a Senior LPMHC, you will operate as a key member of the Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (BHIP). Your primary duties will include:
- Direct Clinical Care: Providing evidence-based therapy to Veterans and their families to address PTSD, anxiety, depression, and dual diagnoses.
- Interdisciplinary Leadership: Collaborating with psychiatrists, psychologists, nurses, and social workers to develop and execute comprehensive treatment plans.
- Supervision and Mentorship: Providing clinical supervision to trainees and less experienced staff members, fostering a culture of professional excellence.
- Consultation: Serving as a subject matter expert and liaison between the VA and community resources.
Requirements
To qualify for this senior-level position, you must meet the following criteria:
- Education: A master’s or doctoral degree in a relevant clinical field from a CACREP-accredited program.
- Licensure: A current, full, and unrestricted license to practice independently as a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor.
- Experience: At least five years of post-licensed clinical experience, with one year specifically demonstrating work equivalent to the GS-11 grade level.
Salary and Comparison
| Position Level | Salary Range (Annual) | Education Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Senior LPMHC (GS-12) | $101,206 - $131,571 | Master's/Doctoral Degree |
Benefits
The VA provides a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your career and personal well-being. A standout feature of this position is the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which offers up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement for eligible applicants.
Application Tips
- Tailor Your Documentation: Ensure your resume highlights the progression of your clinical responsibilities and leadership experience.
- Use Provided Tools: Download and use the standard Clinical Resume document provided by the agency to ensure your application passes the initial screening process.
- Review the Questionnaire: Preview the occupational questionnaire before you begin so you can gather all necessary information and supporting documentation.
If you are a driven clinician with a passion for supporting Veterans, this role offers the perfect blend of professional advancement and the opportunity to make a tangible difference. Apply to the Alaska VA Healthcare System today to start your next chapter.
Why This Senior Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (Bhip) Job Matters
Advance your clinical career in the breathtaking landscape of Alaska while delivering life-changing mental health support to our nation's Veterans.
Senior Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (Bhip) Job Overview
The Alaska VA Healthcare System is seeking a highly skilled Senior Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (LPMHC) to join our Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (BHIP). Based in Anchorage, this role focuses on providing advanced clinical interventions, mentorship, and leadership within a dedicated care team. You will support Veterans facing complex psychiatric and psychosocial challenges while enjoying the unparalleled natural beauty and community lifestyle of Alaska.
Requirements for Senior Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (Bhip)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Master's or doctoral degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling or a related field from a CACREP-accredited program
- Current, full, and unrestricted state license to practice independently as an LPMHC
- Minimum of one year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level (or equivalent)
- Five years of post-licensed professional experience
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Must be able to pass a background security investigation and drug screening
Preferred Qualifications for Senior Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (Bhip)
- Demonstrated expertise in treating complex mental health diagnoses and psychosocial disorders
- Experience providing clinical supervision to trainees or unlicensed counselors
- Proven ability to serve as a subject matter expert and design clinical training curricula
- Strong skills in interdisciplinary coordination and liaison management with community stakeholders
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000)
- âś“Competitive federal salary and benefits package
- âś“Opportunities for professional growth and leadership development
- âś“Collaborative and interdisciplinary work environment
- âś“Relocation incentives authorized
đź’ˇ How to Apply Senior Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (Bhip) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Senior Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (Bhip) Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS profile
- Download and prepare the required Clinical Resume Document from the provided agency link
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire via the application portal
- Upload your resume, transcripts, professional license, and relevant SF-50 forms
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date of September 30, 2026
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly articulates how your experience meets the GS-12 requirements.
- Do not assume the hiring manager understands your previous duties; be specific.
- Verify your transcripts and licensure documentation well in advance of the deadline.
- Use the specific clinical resume template provided by the VA for your primary upload.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) available for this position?
Yes, this role is eligible for the EDRP, which provides student loan reimbursement for qualifying participants.
What is the work schedule for this position?
The position follows a standard schedule of Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
Can I work remotely?
No, this is not a virtual or remote position. It requires on-site attendance at the Alaska VA Healthcare System in Anchorage.
Is relocation assistance available?
Please refer to the specific job offer details, as recruitment incentives are authorized for this position.
Is this a remote role?
No, this position is based in Anchorage, Alaska, and requires on-site attendance.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Alaska VA Healthcare System (AVAHS) is committed to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who served in our military. Operating as a complexity level 3 facility, the AVAHS serves Veterans across the entire state. Employees enjoy the unique benefit of working in Anchorage—a city that offers modern urban amenities alongside spectacular access to the wilderness, including world-class hiking, fishing, and photography opportunities.