Become a Correctional Treatment Specialist with the Bureau of Prisons
Are you a licensed mental health professional looking to make a lasting difference in the criminal justice system? The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is hiring a Correctional Treatment Specialist (Qualified Mental Health Professional) in Milan, Michigan. This role is perfect for clinicians who are passionate about rehabilitation, public safety, and evidence-based mental health care.
Job Responsibilities
As a QMHP, your duties extend beyond traditional therapy. You will:
- Deliver psychotherapy and specialized counseling to inmates.
- Perform comprehensive mental health and behavioral evaluations.
- Develop and implement evidence-based treatment plans.
- Consult with the Chief Psychologist to improve institutional programs.
- Train correctional staff to recognize and manage emotional and behavioral disorders.
- Assist in maintaining the security of the facility, which remains a primary duty for all staff.
Requirements
To succeed in this role, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- U.S. Citizenship: Required for all federal law enforcement-related positions.
- Licensure: You must hold an active, unrestricted license as an LCSW, LMFT, or LPC.
- Education: A background in behavioral or social sciences with relevant graduate-level training.
- Experience: Ability to demonstrate expertise in mental health treatment within professional settings.
- Screening: Successful completion of background, credit, and criminal record checks.
Candidate Comparison Table
| Criteria | Required Standard |
|---|---|
| Licensure | Current State License (LCSW, LMFT, LPC) |
| Experience | 1+ year specialized experience |
| Education | Advanced degree or specialized coursework |
| Entry Age | Max 36 (subject to veteran exemptions) |
Salary Overview
This position is highly competitive, offering a salary range of $82,372 to $107,090 per year, commensurate with your qualifications and experience.
Benefits
Working for the federal government provides a robust benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health insurance and dental/vision options.
- Federal retirement pension plans (FERS).
- Paid training programs.
- Opportunities for professional growth and lateral moves within the DOJ.
Application Tips
- Tailor your Resume: Keep it to 2 pages and focus on your clinical experience.
- Formatting Matters: Use a simple, readable font and clear page margins.
- Document Everything: Ensure all transcripts and licenses are clearly labeled.
- Check Deadlines: Applications close on July 10, 2026. Submit early to avoid technical issues.
If you are ready to apply your clinical expertise in a challenging and rewarding environment, this is your opportunity. Apply through USAJOBS today to help shape the future of corrections and mental health in the federal system.
Why This Correctional Treatment Specialist (Qualified Mental Health Professional) Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on public safety and inmate rehabilitation by serving as a Qualified Mental Health Professional with the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
Correctional Treatment Specialist (Qualified Mental Health Professional) Job Overview
The Federal Bureau of Prisons is seeking a dedicated Correctional Treatment Specialist to serve as a Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP) in Milan, Michigan. In this vital role, you will bridge the gap between clinical support and institutional security, delivering specialized psychotherapy, conducting mental health evaluations, and developing comprehensive treatment plans for incarcerated individuals. You will work closely with the Chief Psychologist to enhance mental health programming and train staff, ensuring a secure yet rehabilitative environment.
Requirements for Correctional Treatment Specialist (Qualified Mental Health Professional)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must possess a valid, unrestricted state license as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), or Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW).
- Must meet the basic education requirement of at least 24 semester hours in behavioral or social sciences.
- Must have three years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a Ph.D. or equivalent, or at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.
- Must pass a pre-employment background investigation, physical exam, and urinalysis.
- Must complete the three-week 'Introduction to Correctional Techniques' training in Glynco, Georgia.
- Must meet the maximum entry age requirement of 36 for original appointment to a BOP institution (exceptions apply for eligible veterans).
Preferred Qualifications for Correctional Treatment Specialist (Qualified Mental Health Professional)
- Proven experience facilitating evidence-based group and individual treatment within a correctional or clinical setting.
- Expertise in diagnosing and treating adults with complex mental illnesses and behavioral disorders.
- Proficiency in utilizing cognitive behavioral treatment (CBT) techniques.
- Strong interpersonal skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and correctional staff.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal career opportunities with potential for promotion.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans.
- ✓Access to the Federal Employees' Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and specialized training.
- ✓Stable, full-time federal employment.
💡 How to Apply Correctional Treatment Specialist (Qualified Mental Health Professional) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Correctional Treatment Specialist (Qualified Mental Health Professional) Job
- Register and build your profile on the official USAJOBS portal.
- Review the specific application instructions and ensure your resume is limited to 2 pages.
- Prepare all required documentation, including transcripts and your professional state license.
- Submit your application, including responses to the online assessment, by the closing date of July 10, 2026.
- Upload supporting documents (DD-214, SF-50, etc.) if claiming veterans' preference or CTAP/ICTAP status.
- Monitor your email for status updates or interview requests.
💡 General Tips
- Use a clean, sans-serif font like Arial or Helvetica for your resume and stick to the two-page limit.
- Clearly list start and end dates in MM/YYYY format and include hours worked per week for all relevant experience.
- Ensure your transcripts are legible and include your name and the institution's name.
- Do not use special characters in file names (e.g., #, @, %).
- Double-check that your state license is current and uploaded with your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum entry age for this position?
The maximum entry age is 36 for original appointment to a Bureau of Prisons institution, though qualified preference-eligible veterans may be exempt.
Is travel required for this position?
The position involves regular and recurring duties within the correctional facility; initial training will require travel to Glynco, Georgia.
Can I submit my application via email?
No, you must apply through the online system at USAJOBS.gov unless you are a Public Health Service Commissioned Officer, who must follow separate instructions.
What is the training process?
You will be required to complete a three-week training course in Glynco, Georgia.
How does the agency evaluate my application?
Applications are rated based on your assessment responses and the supporting documentation provided in your profile.
Job from Bureau Of Prisons/Federal Prison System
The Federal Bureau of Prisons is responsible for the custody and care of federal inmates. Our mission centers on preparing individuals for successful reentry into society while ensuring the safety of our staff, the public, and the inmates themselves. As a QMHP, you are a critical part of a team dedicated to fostering a humane, secure environment.