Advance Your Career as a Mental Health Psychologist at the VA
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class, compassionate, and whole-health care to those who have bravely served in our nation's military. At the Hershel "Woody" Williams VA Medical Center in Huntington, West Virginia, we are currently seeking a highly skilled and motivated Psychologist to join our Mental Health Gateway team. If you are passionate about clinical excellence, crisis intervention, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of Veterans, we invite you to apply.
Job Responsibilities
As a Psychologist within the Mental Health Gateway, you will operate at an advanced practice level. Your core duties include:
- Providing comprehensive face-to-face triage assessments for acute mental health needs.
- Developing and implementing crisis management plans.
- Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, including psychiatrists and medical staff, to optimize patient care.
- Communicating clinically relevant information to ensure 24-hour access to emergency mental health services.
- Facilitating referrals to psychiatric facilities when necessary.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Education: A doctoral degree in psychology from an APA, PCSAS, or CPA accredited program.
- Licensure: A full, current, and unrestricted license to practice at the doctoral level.
- Internship: Successful completion of an accredited professional psychology internship.
- Compliance: Willingness to undergo a background investigation and participate in the mandatory seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Salary Overview
This position is graded between GS-11 and GS-13, offering a highly competitive salary range.
| Grade Level | Starting Salary Range |
|---|---|
| GS-11 to GS-13 | $116,520 - $151,478 |
Note: Pay setting may consider higher step rates based on unique qualifications or agency needs.
Benefits
The VA offers a robust benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive insurance options (Health, Dental, Vision, Life).
- Federal pension plan and 401k (Thrift Savings Plan) with a 5% employer match.
- Substantial annual and sick leave accrual.
- Potential eligibility for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which can provide up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement.
Application Tips
- Standardize your docs: Use the official Clinical Resume Document template provided by the VA.
- Be detailed: Explicitly state how your experience meets the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) listed in the announcement.
- Stay informed: Monitor your USAJOBS account notifications to check your application status as it moves through the review process.
This role offers a unique opportunity to combine your clinical expertise with a noble purpose. By providing crucial support during a Veteran's most vulnerable moments, you contribute to the overall strength and well-being of our community. Join the Hershel "Woody" Williams VA Medical Center team today and help us uphold our promise to America's Veterans.
Why This Psychologist - Mental Health Gateway Job Matters
Make a lasting impact on the lives of those who served by providing expert, compassionate mental health crisis intervention at the Hershel 'Woody' Williams VA Medical Center.
Psychologist - Mental Health Gateway Job Overview
The Hershel 'Woody' Williams VA Medical Center is seeking a dedicated, licensed Psychologist to join our Mental Health Gateway team. In this critical role, you will serve at the advanced practice level, providing high-stakes mental health assessments, crisis management, and interdisciplinary coordination. You will be instrumental in the preventative management of suicidal behaviors and ensuring our Veterans receive timely, expert care. This position offers a competitive salary, comprehensive federal benefits, and the opportunity to participate in the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP).
Requirements for Psychologist - Mental Health Gateway
- U.S. Citizenship
- Doctoral degree in psychology (APA, PCSAS, or CPA accredited)
- Completion of an accredited professional psychology internship
- Full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level in a U.S. state, territory, or DC
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Successful completion of a pre-employment physical evaluation
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
- Subject to background and security investigation
Preferred Qualifications for Psychologist - Mental Health Gateway
- Experience in psychiatric crisis management
- Proven ability to design and implement complex treatment strategies
- Expertise in interdisciplinary team collaboration and clinical research
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- ✓Federal pension and 401k-style thrift savings plan with 5% matching
- ✓Generous annual leave (13-26 days) and sick leave (13 days)
- ✓11 paid Federal holidays per year
- ✓Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave
- ✓Child care subsidy for eligible employees
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000)
💡 How to Apply Psychologist - Mental Health Gateway Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Psychologist - Mental Health Gateway Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your resume/CV and download the required Clinical Resume Document template.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire linked in the job posting.
- Upload your resume, transcripts, license, and any required eligibility documents (e.g., DD-214, SF-50).
- Submit your application package by the closing date of July 24, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific and thorough in describing your experience; the hiring team cannot make assumptions about your qualifications.
- Ensure you use the provided standard Clinical Resume Document template for your primary resume upload.
- Check your application status regularly by logging into your USAJOBS account.
- Submit all documentation well before the deadline to avoid technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Education Debt Reduction Program available for this role?
Yes, this position is eligible for the EDRP. Eligibility and award amounts are determined after a review of your application by the VHA program office.
Can I apply if I am not currently licensed?
Non-licensed applicants may be considered for a temporary 'graduate psychologist' appointment for up to 2 years, provided they meet all other requirements and practice under supervision.
What is the work schedule for this position?
The role requires full-time availability, including evenings and weekends, as determined by your supervisor to support 24-hour mental health services.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Hershel "Woody" Williams VA Medical Center, part of the Veterans Integrated Service Network 5 (VISN 5), serves Veterans across West Virginia, Ohio, and Kentucky. Our facility is a hub of clinical innovation, medical research, and training for future healthcare providers. By joining our team, you become part of a national mission to provide comprehensive mental health services to the men and women who have sacrificed for our country.