Clinical Psychologist: A Rewarding Career in Federal Correctional Mental Health
Are you a dedicated mental health professional looking to make a meaningful difference? The Federal Bureau of Prisons is hiring a Clinical Psychologist (Specialty Program Coordinator) for the 'Resolve' program in Waseca, Minnesota. This unique role blends clinical expertise with administrative leadership, offering the chance to provide essential treatment to individuals in a secure setting.
Job Responsibilities
As a Specialty Program Coordinator, you will lead the implementation and evaluation of the 'Resolve' program. Key duties include:
- Clinical Care: Providing individual and group psychotherapy using evidence-based cognitive-behavioral interventions.
- Assessment: Conducting comprehensive psychological testing, including personality and aptitude instruments.
- Crisis Intervention: Responding to institutional requests for evaluation regarding suicidal ideation, depression, or situational crises.
- Program Management: Overseeing all clinical aspects of the specialty treatment unit to ensure high-quality care.
Comparison: Standard Clinical Roles vs. BOP Clinical Roles
| Feature | Traditional Clinic | BOP Correctional Role |
|---|---|---|
| Scope of Practice | Patient-centered only | Patient + Institutional Security |
| Environment | Office/Hospital | Secure Correctional Facility |
| Treatment Focus | General mental health | Forensic & Reentry readiness |
| Team Collaboration | Multi-disciplinary | Correctional & Clinical Staff |
Requirements
To be considered, candidates must:
- Hold a doctoral degree in clinical or counseling psychology.
- Possess a current, unrestricted license to practice.
- Have one year of specialized experience.
- Successfully pass rigorous background and medical screenings.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $97,582 to $150,852 per year. Additionally, qualified candidates may be eligible for significant recruitment or retention incentives.
Benefits
The federal benefits package is comprehensive, including health insurance, retirement options via FERS/TSP, generous leave policies, and stable career development paths.
Application Tips
- Keep your resume to exactly two pages.
- Upload your license with a visible expiration date.
- Clearly document your hours worked per week for each listed role.
Serving as a Clinical Psychologist at the Waseca facility is more than just a job; it is a commitment to public service. If you possess the clinical skill and the desire to impact lives, apply today to join our team.
Why This Clinical Psychologist (Specialty Program Coordinator – Resolve) Job Matters
Make a lasting impact on public safety by providing life-changing clinical psychological care within the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
Clinical Psychologist (Specialty Program Coordinator – Resolve) Job Overview
The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is seeking a dedicated Clinical Psychologist to serve as a Specialty Program Coordinator for the 'Resolve' program in Waseca, Minnesota. In this vital role, you will lead evidence-based treatment efforts for inmates with serious mental health needs. You will manage clinical programming, provide expert-level psychotherapy, and conduct critical psychological assessments. This position is perfect for a licensed professional who is passionate about mental health rehabilitation and committed to maintaining a safe, secure, and humane correctional environment.
Requirements for Clinical Psychologist (Specialty Program Coordinator – Resolve)
- Must possess a current, full, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level in a U.S. State, Territory, or D.C.
- Completion of a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or equivalent) in clinical or counseling psychology.
- At least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must pass a background investigation, medical examination, and drug screening.
- Must successfully complete the three-week 'Introduction to Correctional Techniques' training in Glynco, Georgia.
Preferred Qualifications for Clinical Psychologist (Specialty Program Coordinator – Resolve)
- Expertise in cognitive-behavioral interventions and trauma-informed care.
- Demonstrated ability to manage and evaluate specialized clinical programs.
- Proven experience conducting group and individual psychotherapy for high-needs populations.
- Proficiency in administering and interpreting personality, intelligence, and aptitude assessments.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with potential for 50% recruitment incentive and 25% retention incentive.
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits package, including health, life, and long-term care insurance.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching contributions.
- ✓Paid federal holidays, annual leave, and sick leave.
- ✓Extensive opportunities for professional growth and federal career advancement.
💡 How to Apply Clinical Psychologist (Specialty Program Coordinator – Resolve) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Clinical Psychologist (Specialty Program Coordinator – Resolve) Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement details on USAJobs.
- Prepare a concise resume (strictly limited to 2 pages).
- Collect all required documentation, including your current, unrestricted psychology license and official transcripts.
- Create or update your profile on the official federal application portal.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire honestly and thoroughly.
- Submit your complete application packet before the closing date.
- Monitor your email for status updates and requests for interviews.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly highlights the number of hours worked per week for each role, as this is required for credit.
- Double-check that your psychology license copy clearly shows the expiration date; failure to include this leads to automatic disqualification.
- Stick to the 2-page resume limit; excess content will render your application ineligible.
- When detailing your experience, focus on specific outcomes related to mental health interventions and psychological assessments.
- Use a clear, standard font like Arial or Calibri to ensure your document is easily readable by HR systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a license required to apply?
Yes. A full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level is a mandatory Selective Placement Factor.
What happens if I miss the document upload deadline?
All required documents must be submitted by the closing date. Missing or illegible documents will result in your removal from consideration.
Are there recruitment bonuses available?
The position may offer a 50% recruitment incentive or a 25% retention incentive for qualified candidates who meet specific agency criteria.
Job from Bureau Of Prisons/Federal Prison System
The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is responsible for the custody and care of federal inmates. Our mission centers on fostering a humane, secure, and safe environment, ensuring that individuals are prepared for successful reentry into the community. By joining our team, you contribute directly to the safety of the public and the rehabilitation of the incarcerated population.