Transforming Mental Health Care: Staff Psychologist Position at the VA
Are you a clinical psychologist passionate about making a tangible impact on the lives of Veterans? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently looking for a talented and dedicated Staff Psychologist to join the Primary Care Mental Health Integration (PCMHI) team in Decatur, Illinois. This is more than just a job; it is a chance to provide world-class, integrated mental health care to those who have served our country.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will work directly within a primary care setting. Your duties will be diverse and highly clinical, including:
- Conducting psychological evaluations for emotional and behavioral concerns.
- Providing evidence-based interventions like CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Problem-Solving Training.
- Consulting with Primary Care Providers (PCPs) to improve patient care outcomes.
- Performing triage and referring patients to specialty care when necessary.
- Documenting clinical interactions accurately and maintaining productivity standards.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Possess a doctoral degree in psychology from an accredited program (APA, PCSAS, or CPA).
- Have successfully completed an accredited professional psychology internship.
- Hold a current, full, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level.
- Be proficient in spoken and written English.
- Ability to pass background investigations and drug screening.
Salary and Benefits
The salary range for this position is $98,799 to $183,063 per year, depending on qualifications and experience. Beyond the base pay, the VA offers a robust benefits package:
Comparison Table: Why Choose the VA?
| Benefit Category | VA Offering | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Student Debt | EDRP Available | Up to $200k in loan repayment |
| Retirement | Pension + 401(k) | Federal pension + 5% matching |
| Leave | 37-50 Days | Annual, sick, and federal holidays |
| Family Support | Paid Parental Leave | Up to 12 weeks of paid leave |
Application Tips
- Use the Required Format: Download the standard Clinical Resume document linked in the official job posting. Do not deviate from this format for your primary resume upload.
- Be Specific: Detail your clinical experience thoroughly. Do not rely on recruiters to guess your expertise—state your accomplishments clearly.
- Stay Updated: Monitor your email frequently for status updates regarding your application status.
If you are ready to advance your career while honoring our Veterans, this role offers the perfect blend of clinical autonomy and mission-based service. Apply today to start your journey with the VA in Decatur.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Is this position remote? No, this is an onsite position in Decatur, IL.
- Can I apply if my internship wasn't APA accredited? You may be eligible only if you are board certified by the American Board of Professional Psychology in a specialty area consistent with the job.
- How do I get the sign-on bonus? Recruitment incentives are authorized for highly qualified candidates based on agency needs.
Why This Staff Psychologist - Primary Care Mental Health Integration Job Matters
Transform lives by providing specialized mental health care to those who have served our nation as a Staff Psychologist in Decatur, Illinois.
Staff Psychologist - Primary Care Mental Health Integration Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking a dedicated Staff Psychologist for a Primary Care Mental Health Integration (PCMHI) role in Decatur, Illinois. This position offers an impactful opportunity to work within a multidisciplinary team, providing essential diagnostic, evaluation, and evidence-based treatment services to Veterans. The role focuses on brief interventions and integrated care, ensuring Veterans receive timely mental health support within their primary care environment.
Requirements for Staff Psychologist - Primary Care Mental Health Integration
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Doctoral degree in psychology from an APA, PCSAS, or CPA-accredited program.
- Completion of a professional psychology internship accredited by APA or CPA (or equivalent).
- Current, full, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Background and security investigation clearance.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Ability to perform clinical duties effectively.
Preferred Qualifications for Staff Psychologist - Primary Care Mental Health Integration
- Experience with evidence-based interventions like CBT, CBT-Insomnia, and Motivational Interviewing.
- Proficiency in chronic disease management and suicide assessment.
- Ability to provide interdisciplinary consultation to primary care providers.
- Skills in brief assessment and triage for specialty care.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility up to $200,000
- ✓Federal pension and 401(k) retirement plans with 5% matching
- ✓Comprehensive health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- ✓Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave
- ✓Childcare subsidies for eligible employees
- ✓Generous paid time off (annual, sick, and federal holidays)
- ✓Credit toward annual leave accrual for prior work or military experience
💡 How to Apply Staff Psychologist - Primary Care Mental Health Integration Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Staff Psychologist - Primary Care Mental Health Integration Job
- Create or log in to a USAJOBS account.
- Download the standard Clinical Resume Document from the VA Careers website.
- Prepare a complete application package including your CV, license, and transcripts.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire via the provided USA Staffing link.
- Submit your application, including all required supporting documents, before the deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Use the specific VA Clinical Resume template provided in the job announcement to ensure your application meets formatting standards.
- Be clear and specific when describing your experience; the hiring team cannot make assumptions.
- Verify that your license is current and unrestricted before applying.
- Ensure your transcripts clearly indicate your degree specialty and internship completion.
- Submit your application well before the deadline to avoid technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Education Debt Reduction Program available for this position?
Yes, this role is eligible for EDRP, which provides student loan reimbursement up to $200,000 based on policy and application review.
Can I apply if I am not yet licensed?
Non-licensed candidates may be considered for a temporary 'graduate psychologist' appointment under supervision for up to two years while they obtain full licensure.
What is the work schedule for this role?
The standard schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Our mission is to fulfill the promise made by President Lincoln: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." By joining our team, you become part of a compassionate network that prioritizes whole-person care and innovative clinical solutions.