Advance Your Clinical Career as a Staff Psychologist with the VA

Are you a dedicated mental health professional looking to make a meaningful impact? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking a highly qualified Staff Psychologist to join the Iowa City VA Health Care System in Davenport, Iowa. This is a unique opportunity to provide evidence-based care in a 5-Star rated facility that prioritizes clinical excellence and professional development.

Job Responsibilities

As a Staff Psychologist, you will function as a vital member of a multidisciplinary team. Key duties include:

Comprehensive Assessment: Conducting detailed diagnostic assessments and formulating personalized treatment plans.
Evidence-Based Treatment: Delivering psychotherapy for a variety of conditions, including mental health, substance use, and psychosocial concerns.
Clinical Consultation: Serving as a subject matter expert for interdisciplinary teams and providing guidance to trainees.
Crisis Management: Performing risk assessments for self-harm or harm to others and executing suicide prevention protocols.
Education: Offering psychoeducation to patients, families, and staff members.

Qualifications

You must meet the following criteria to be considered for this position:

Requirement Type	Criteria
Citizenship	Must be a U.S. Citizen
Education	Doctoral degree in Psychology (APA/PCSAS/CPA accredited)
Internship	Successfully completed accredited professional psychology internship
Licensure	Full, current, and unrestricted license to practice

Salary and Benefits

The VA offers a competitive compensation package that recognizes your expertise.

Salary: Range of $90,493 – $167,672 per year.
Incentives: Eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) with potential awards up to $200,000.
Time Off: Generous leave including 13-26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays.
Retirement: Strong pension plan and a 401(k)-style federal retirement account with agency matching.

Application Tips

Applying for a federal position requires precision. To ensure your application stands out:

Tailor Your Resume: Use the specific VA Clinical Resume template found on the VA Careers website.
Highlight KSAs: Write a dedicated document addressing the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities mentioned in the job announcement.
Be Comprehensive: Detail both paid and unpaid/volunteer clinical experiences.
Double-Check Requirements: Ensure all licensure and educational documents are attached before the closing date of September 30, 2026.

Serving our nation’s Veterans is a calling that requires the best talent in the field of psychology. At the Iowa City VA, you will find a collaborative, innovative, and supportive environment. If you meet the qualifications, we encourage you to apply and join our mission to improve the lives of those who have served.

Why This Staff Psychologist - Mental Health Job Matters

Advance your career in psychology by serving those who served us. Join the VA as a Staff Psychologist in Davenport, Iowa, and enjoy exceptional benefits, clinical autonomy, and the opportunity to impact lives in a 5-Star rated healthcare environment.

Staff Psychologist - Mental Health Job Overview

The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Staff Psychologist to join the Iowa City VA Health Care System. This role offers the chance to provide comprehensive psychological care to Veterans in a premier teaching hospital setting. Known for innovation and excellence, our facility is a 5-Star CMS-rated hub that values research, evidence-based practices, and a multidisciplinary approach to whole-health patient care.

Requirements for Staff Psychologist - Mental Health

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Hold a doctoral degree in psychology from an APA, PCSAS, or CPA-accredited program.
Successfully completed a professional psychology internship accredited by the APA or CPA.
Possess a full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level.
Proficiency in spoken and written English.
Must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
Subject to a background and security investigation.
Must participate in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.

Preferred Qualifications for Staff Psychologist - Mental Health

Experience in clinical research and scientific activity.
Ability to provide professional consultation and behavioral health advice.
Specialized experience in delivering evidence-based psychotherapy.
Active board certification by the American Board of Professional Psychology.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility up to $200,000
✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance
✓Traditional federal pension and 401(k) with up to 5% agency matching
✓37-50 days of paid time off (annual, sick, and federal holidays)
✓Paid parental leave after 12 months
✓Childcare subsidy for eligible employees
✓Opportunities for professional research and academic collaboration

💡 How to Apply Staff Psychologist - Mental Health Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Staff Psychologist - Mental Health Job

Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Download and complete the standard Clinical Resume document.
Prepare your full CV or resume, academic transcripts, and licensure documentation.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Submit your application package via the USAJOBS portal before the closing date.
Monitor your email for status notifications and potential interview requests.

💡 General Tips

Address the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) clearly in a separate document for better visibility.
Ensure your resume reflects both paid and volunteer clinical experience.
Use the specific VA Clinical Resume template provided on the VA Careers website.
Review your application package thoroughly for completeness; omissions may affect your consideration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this position eligible for loan repayment?

Yes, this role is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which provides student loan reimbursement up to $200,000 based on program approval.

What is the expected work schedule?

The position operates on a standard schedule of Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

Can I apply if I am not yet licensed?

Non-licensed applicants may be considered for a temporary 'graduate psychologist' appointment under specific conditions, provided they obtain full licensure within a two-year period.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Iowa City VA Health Care System is a premier healthcare provider serving over 50,000 Veterans across Iowa, Illinois, and Missouri. More than just a hospital, our system is a hub for innovation, medical education, and compassionate care. Our strong partnerships with leading academic institutions, such as the University of Iowa, foster a culture of research and professional growth. We are honored to uphold President Lincoln’s promise to provide exceptional care to those who have served our nation.