Advance Your Career as a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor at the VA
Are you a skilled mental health professional looking to make a meaningful impact? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) invites you to join the team at the Aleda E. Lutz VA Medical Center in Saginaw, Michigan. We are looking for a dedicated Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (LPMHC) to support the health and well-being of those who have served our nation.
Position Overview
This role involves providing advanced clinical psychosocial services and case management. You will work independently to evaluate patient needs, diagnose conditions using current standards, and develop robust treatment plans. You will be an integral part of an interdisciplinary team, ensuring that Veterans receive the high-quality care they deserve.
Comparison Table: Why Work for the VA?
| Feature | VA Healthcare Benefits |
|---|---|
| Work Environment | Collaborative & Patient-Centered |
| Scheduling | Predictable & Flexible |
| Mission | Serving Veterans & Families |
| Professional Growth | Extensive Training & Development |
Key Responsibilities
- Conducting thorough psychosocial assessments for Veterans and families.
- Interpreting VA treatment plans and facilitating referrals.
- Making independent clinical diagnoses and recommendations.
- Developing, implementing, and documenting effective psychosocial treatment plans.
- Facilitating psychotherapy and psycho-education group sessions.
Requirements
To be eligible, you must hold a Masterβs or doctoral degree in a relevant counseling field from a CACREP-accredited program and possess a full, current, and unrestricted license. All candidates must be U.S. citizens and meet federal background check standards.
Salary and Benefits
Compensation for this position ranges from $74,678 to $97,087 annually, commensurate with qualifications and experience. Benefits include competitive federal health insurance, a robust retirement plan, and generous paid time off.
Application Tips
- Document Formatting: Follow the specific resume template requirements provided by the agency.
- Clarity is Key: Be explicit about your experience. The hiring team cannot make assumptions about your clinical history.
- Deadlines: Ensure your application is submitted before the August 7, 2026, cutoff.
Joining the VA as a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor is a noble career path that combines clinical excellence with dedicated public service. Apply today to help us support the mental health needs of our Veterans in Saginaw.
Why This Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor Job Matters
Join the Aleda E. Lutz VA Medical Center and make a profound difference in the lives of our nation's Veterans through compassionate, high-level mental health care.
Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (LPMHC) to serve at the Aleda E. Lutz VA Medical Center in Saginaw, Michigan. This role is designed for a clinical expert who can provide advanced psychosocial assessments, crisis intervention, and treatment planning for Veterans and their families. If you are passionate about evidence-based care and want to contribute to a mission-driven environment, this is an exceptional opportunity to advance your counseling career.
Requirements for Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor
- U.S. Citizenship
- Master's or doctoral degree in a relevant counseling field from a CACREP-accredited program
- Full, current, and unrestricted license to independently practice as a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- One year of post-graduate mental health counseling experience
- Successful completion of a background/security investigation
- Must be able to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccinations or secure an authorized exemption
Preferred Qualifications for Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor
- Advanced mastery of the DSM-5 for diagnosis and treatment planning
- Proven track record in crisis intervention and psychosocial stabilization
- Experience facilitating psychotherapy and psycho-educational group sessions
- Ability to work effectively within an interdisciplinary healthcare team
Federal Benefits & Perks
- βCompetitive federal salary structure
- βGenerous paid time off and vacation leave
- βPredictable and flexible scheduling options
- βComprehensive health and retirement benefits
- βOpportunity for annual leave accrual based on prior service
π‘ How to Apply Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor Job
- Create or log in to your account at USAJOBS.gov.
- Download and complete the required standard Clinical Resume Document.
- Prepare your comprehensive CV and transcript.
- Submit your complete application package via the USA Staffing portal.
- Ensure all documentation is submitted prior to the August 7, 2026 deadline.
π‘ General Tips
- Be specific and clear in your resume; do not rely on assumptions about your experience.
- Ensure your license details are current and easily verifiable.
- Carefully follow the specific instructions regarding the two-page restricted resume upload versus your full CV.
- Check your USAJOBS account frequently for updates on your application status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote or telework position?
No, this is an on-site, in-person position located at the Aleda E. Lutz VA Medical Center in Saginaw, MI.
What is the role of the trial period?
New hires are required to complete a 1 or 2-year trial period to evaluate performance, conduct, and fitness for the role.
What if I have questions about the job?
You may contact the HR department via the provided email or phone number in the job listing.
Is relocation authorized?
No, this position does not offer relocation or PCS incentives.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincolnβs promise to care for those who have served in our military, as well as their families and survivors. Our culture is built on the "I CARE" values: Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence. Working at the VA offers more than just a job; it provides a sense of purpose and a supportive, professional environment.
External Resources
- β USAJobs Application Portal
- β CACREP Directory
- β VA Qualification Standards
- β USA Staffing Apply Link
- β Application Status
- β U.S. Department of Education Accreditation
- β Foreign Education Recognition
- β I-9 Acceptable Documents
- β Preview Questionnaire
- β Standard Clinical Resume Template
- β VA Benefits Information
