Advance Your Career: Supervisory Mental Health Counselor with the Montana VA

Are you a seasoned clinical professional looking to merge your passion for patient care with high-level program leadership? The Montana VA Health Care System invites you to apply for the Supervisory Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (LPMHC) position in Bozeman, Montana. This role is a perfect opportunity for clinicians who want to make a tangible difference in the lives of our nation's Veterans while enjoying the unparalleled natural beauty and community spirit of Montana.

Role Overview and Responsibilities

As the Supervisory LPMHC for the Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (BHIP), you will wear many hats. You are not only a leader but a mentor, administrator, and clinician. Your key responsibilities include:

Program Management: Oversight of BHIP teams, ensuring that mental health services are delivered efficiently and effectively across the system.
Staff Leadership: Mentoring team leads, setting performance expectations, and facilitating a cohesive interdisciplinary environment.
Compliance: Ensuring all services meet VA, VERA, and national accreditation standards.
Clinical Practice: Providing evidence-based treatments and conducting biopsychosocial assessments for complex cases.
Consultation: Serving as a primary resource for mental health service development and resolving interdisciplinary treatment issues.

Comparison of Responsibilities

Function	Focus Area	Impact
Administrative	Policy, Hiring, Metrics	Ensures operational success and compliance.
Supervisory	Mentorship, Team Growth	Drives high-quality clinical outcomes.
Clinical	Assessments, Therapy	Provides direct care to our Veterans.

Requirements

To qualify, you must hold a master's or doctoral degree in a relevant field from a CACREP-accredited program and possess a full, unrestricted license to practice independently. Candidates must demonstrate at least one year of experience equivalent to the GS-11 level, showcasing advanced practice skills and judgment. You must be a U.S. citizen and meet all background investigation requirements.

Salary and Benefits

The salary range for this position is $93,537 to $121,601 per year. Beyond the competitive base pay, the VA offers an impressive benefits package, including the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which provides up to $200,000 in loan reimbursement. You will also have access to comprehensive health insurance, federal retirement programs, and generous vacation accrual.

Application Tips

Use the Template: The VA provides a standard clinical resume template. Using this file is critical to ensuring your credentials are highlighted correctly.
Be Specific: When describing your experience, detail your accomplishments in leadership and clinical supervision. Don't leave room for assumptions.
Check Documents: Ensure your transcripts, license, and (if applicable) military records are included in the upload package.

Joining the Montana VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to excellence and service. If you are ready to lead in a clinical environment that truly values your expertise, apply today to help us continue providing the world-class care our Veterans deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is there an incentive for student loans? A: Yes, this role is eligible for the EDRP.

Q: Can I live in Bozeman and work at the VA? A: This position is located in Bozeman, offering access to some of the nation's best outdoor activities and a fantastic community environment.

Q: When is the application deadline? A: The announcement closes on August 10, 2026. Make sure your application is in before the deadline.

Why This Supervisory Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor - Bhip Job Matters

Lead a multidisciplinary behavioral health team in the beautiful landscapes of Bozeman, Montana—a role combining clinical excellence with impactful leadership for our nation's Veterans.

Supervisory Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor - Bhip Job Overview

The Montana VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Supervisory Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (LPMHC) to spearhead Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (BHIP) services. This position offers a unique blend of administrative leadership and clinical practice, ensuring Veterans receive compassionate, evidence-based mental healthcare. Located in a region renowned for outdoor recreation, this role provides an exceptional work-life balance while allowing you to advance the VA’s mission of care.

Requirements for Supervisory Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor - Bhip

U.S. Citizenship (Non-citizens may only be appointed if qualified citizens are unavailable).
Master's or doctoral degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling or a related field from a CACREP-accredited program.
Full, current, and unrestricted license to practice as an LPMHC independently.
Minimum of one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 grade level.
Proficiency in written and spoken English.
Successful completion of a background and security investigation.
Compliance with annual seasonal influenza vaccination requirements.

Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor - Bhip

Demonstrated ability to administratively supervise interdisciplinary clinical staff.
Advanced experience in diagnosing mental disorders and conducting biopsychosocial assessments.
Proven track record in managing program performance, quality assurance, and compliance with accreditation standards.
Expertise in mentoring interns, trainees, and clinical students.
Ability to foster a collaborative and cohesive team environment while balancing high-risk clinical demands.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000 for qualifying loans).
✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans.
✓Generous annual and sick leave accrual, with service credit options based on experience.
✓Supportive work-life balance in a scenic, outdoor-oriented community.
✓Opportunities for professional growth and interdisciplinary committee participation.

💡 How to Apply Supervisory Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor - Bhip Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Supervisory Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor - Bhip Job

Create or update your USAJOBS account.
Prepare your resume according to the VA’s specific clinical formatting requirements.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Upload all necessary documentation, including professional license, transcripts, and relevant SF-50s.
Submit your application package by the closing date of August 10, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Use the mandatory VA clinical resume template to ensure your application passes the initial screening.
Be highly specific about your supervisory experience; do not assume the hiring panel knows your daily duties.
Double-check that all required documents are attached before clicking submit.
If you are a Veteran, ensure your DD-214 and any applicable preference forms are included to claim your status.
Monitor your email for status updates following the announcement closing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) available for this role?

Yes, this position is eligible for the EDRP, which can provide loan repayment assistance up to $200,000. You must apply for this program within four months of your appointment.

Can I work remotely?

This is not a virtual position. While some ad-hoc telework may be available at the supervisor's discretion, you are expected to be on-site to provide leadership and clinical care.

What is the work environment like in Bozeman?

Bozeman offers an incredible quality of life, acting as a gateway to major national parks and providing endless opportunities for hiking, skiing, and fishing, paired with a modern, community-focused lifestyle.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Providing care to those who have served is a sacred promise, and the Montana VA is committed to fulfilling that duty through an integrated, patient-centered approach. Nestled in a region that serves as the midpoint between Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks, our facilities offer a unique balance of professional complexity and exceptional work-life balance.