Advance Your Career as a Staff Psychologist at the Truman VA
The Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans Hospital is seeking a compassionate and highly skilled Staff Psychologist to join our Behavioral Health Service Line. This role is a unique opportunity to focus on Health and Pain, working within an integrated, multidisciplinary team to improve the lives of the men and women who have served our country. If you are a licensed clinical psychologist looking for a position that combines evidence-based treatment with a mission of service, this is your chance to make a lasting difference.
Job Responsibilities
As a Staff Psychologist, your primary focus will be on the intersection of physical health and mental well-being. Responsibilities include:
- Providing evidence-based, recovery-oriented psychotherapy for chronic pain and psychiatric comorbidities.
- Developing and documenting individualized treatment plans in collaboration with the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Team.
- Maintaining timely and accurate clinical documentation using the Federal Electronic Health Record.
- Serving as an independent member of the medical staff with clinical privileges.
- Mentoring psychology practicum students, interns, and post-doctoral fellows.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, applicants must hold a doctoral degree in a relevant psychology specialty from an APA or CPA-accredited program and possess a current, unrestricted state license. You must also demonstrate proficiency in English and be able to pass a standard federal background investigation.
Comparison of Grade Levels
| Grade Level | Experience Requirement | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| GS-11 | Basic Qualifications | Entry-level clinical practice |
| GS-12 | 1 year at GS-11 level | Independent practice with moderate oversight |
| GS-13 | 2 years professional experience | Full clinical performance and consultation |
Salary and Benefits
The salary range for this role is $88,037 – $163,122 per year. Beyond the competitive base pay, the VA offers an exceptional benefits package, including the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which can provide up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement.
Application Tips
- Follow the instructions exactly regarding resume uploads; ensure you use the standard VA clinical template.
- Highlight your experience with chronic pain management in both your cover letter and resume.
- Verify that your transcript clearly displays your graduation date and degree specialty.
Serving our nation's Veterans is one of the most rewarding career paths for a psychologist. By joining the team in Columbia, you will gain access to world-class clinical resources and a supportive, mission-driven community. Apply today to begin your journey with the VA.
Why This Staff Psychologist - Health And Pain Job Matters
Advance your clinical career as a Staff Psychologist for Health and Pain at the Truman VA, where you will provide life-changing, recovery-oriented care to our nation's heroes.
Staff Psychologist - Health And Pain Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Staff Psychologist to join the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation team in Columbia, Missouri. This role offers the opportunity to provide evidence-based, whole-health care to Veterans navigating complex mental health challenges and chronic pain. You will be an integral member of a multidisciplinary team, utilizing your expertise to create personalized treatment plans, conduct psychotherapy, and contribute to a top-tier medical environment.
Requirements for Staff Psychologist - Health And Pain
- U.S. Citizenship (with limited exceptions for non-citizens per VA policy)
- Full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level in a U.S. state, territory, or district
- Doctoral degree in psychology (clinical, counseling, or PCSAS-accredited programs) from an APA/CPA-accredited institution
- Successful completion of an APA/CPA-accredited professional psychology internship
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Ability to pass a background/security investigation and pre-employment drug screening
Preferred Qualifications for Staff Psychologist - Health And Pain
- Experience in chronic pain management and integrated primary care behavioral health
- Proven expertise in evidence-based therapeutic interventions for complex mental health comorbidities
- Ability to effectively collaborate within interdisciplinary medical teams
- Background in clinical research and supervision of trainees
- Active board certification by the American Board of Professional Psychology
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility
- ✓Generous Paid Time Off: 13-26 days annual leave plus 13 days sick leave
- ✓11 Paid Federal Holidays
- ✓Comprehensive health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- ✓Federal Pension and 401(k) retirement savings with up to 5% agency matching
- ✓12 weeks of paid parental leave
- ✓Childcare subsidy for eligible families
💡 How to Apply Staff Psychologist - Health And Pain Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Staff Psychologist - Health And Pain Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account profile
- Download the standard Clinical Resume document template from the VA website
- Prepare your full CV and supporting documents (transcripts, licenses, SF-50 if applicable)
- Submit your complete application package, including the specific clinical questionnaire, via the USAJOBS portal
- Monitor your email for status notifications and potential interview requests
💡 General Tips
- Use the provided VA clinical resume template to ensure all required metrics are captured.
- Be highly detailed in your resume; the hiring board cannot make assumptions about your experience.
- Ensure your license status is clearly documented and current.
- Submit your application well before the deadline to account for any technical issues.
- Check your application status regularly through your USAJOBS account dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for remote work?
No, this is an onsite position at the Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans Hospital in Columbia, Missouri.
Can I apply if I am currently in the process of getting my license?
Non-licensed applicants may be considered for a temporary 'graduate psychologist' appointment for up to two years, provided they meet all other qualifications.
What is the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP)?
It is a student loan reimbursement program offering up to $200,000 for eligible participants based on VHA policy and review.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have borne the battle. The Harry S. Truman VA Medical Center, located in the vibrant city of Columbia, Missouri, serves approximately 40,000 Veterans. We are a complexity level 1C facility, offering comprehensive training in various medical and psychological disciplines. Columbia itself is consistently ranked as a top city for families and quality of life.