Advance Your Career as a Behavioral Health Social Worker at the Alaska VA

Are you a dedicated clinical social worker looking to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our nation's heroes? The Alaska VA Healthcare System (AVAHS) is currently seeking a compassionate and skilled Social Worker to join our Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (BHIP) team in Anchorage. This is a vital role that offers the opportunity to provide evidence-based care in one of the most unique and beautiful environments in the United States.

Job Responsibilities

As a BHIP Social Worker, you will serve as a mental health therapist, responsible for the coordination and continuity of care for Veterans receiving mental health services. Your primary duties will include:

Clinical Assessment: Conducting comprehensive psychosocial assessments to identify strengths, needs, and presenting problems.
Treatment Planning: Developing and adjusting psychosocial treatment plans in coordination with an interdisciplinary team.
Therapy: Providing both individual and group psychotherapy to address cognitive, social, and emotional functioning.
Consultation: Providing expert recommendations to the healthcare team regarding psychosocial impacts on a Veteran's medical health.

Requirements

To be considered for this role, you must meet the following federal requirements:

Hold a Master’s degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited institution.
Maintain current licensure or certification for independent clinical practice.
Demonstrate English language proficiency.
Be a U.S. Citizen.

Grade Comparison Table

Feature	GS-9 Level	GS-11 Level
Experience	Entry-level / Recent Grad	1+ Year Post-MSW
Licensure	May qualify for waiver	Independent Licensure Required
Responsibility	Supervised interventions	Autonomous clinical practice

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary range of $73,992 to $116,387 per year, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Beyond the salary, the VA provides a comprehensive federal benefits package, including:

Education Debt Reduction: Potential for up to $200,000 in student loan repayment.
Leave: Up to 50 days of paid time off per year (annual, sick, and holidays).
Parental Leave: Up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents.
Retirement: Federal pension plus a 401(k)-style Thrift Savings Plan with employer match.

How to Apply

Applying for a federal position requires precision. Ensure you use the official VA Clinical Resume template to capture your experience accurately. All applications must be submitted via the official USAJobs portal before the deadline of September 30, 2026.

If you are ready to combine your clinical expertise with a passion for public service, the Alaska VA Healthcare System is the place for you. Apply today to help us support the Veterans of Alaska.

Why This Social Worker - Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (Bhip) Job Matters

Make a lasting impact on the lives of those who served. Join the Alaska VA Healthcare System as a Behavioral Health Social Worker and help our Veterans thrive.

Social Worker - Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (Bhip) Job Overview

The Alaska VA Healthcare System is seeking a dedicated Social Worker to join the Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (BHIP) in Anchorage. This role is central to our mission, providing recovery-oriented, evidence-based care to Veterans. You will manage complex psychosocial needs, conduct clinical assessments, and lead both individual and group therapy sessions. If you are passionate about clinical excellence and want to serve those who have served, this position offers a unique opportunity to provide vital mental health support in a supportive, collaborative environment.

Requirements for Social Worker - Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (Bhip)

U.S. Citizenship (Non-citizens may only be appointed when no qualified citizens are available).
Master's degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program.
Must be licensed or certified to independently practice social work at the master's level.
English language proficiency (written and spoken).
Ability to undergo and pass a background and security investigation.
Must participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.

Preferred Qualifications for Social Worker - Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (Bhip)

One year of post-MSW experience in a clinical or healthcare setting.
Demonstrated ability to perform psychosocial assessments and formulate treatment plans.
Strong skills in crisis intervention and supportive counseling techniques.
Proficiency in coordinating services with community and government agencies.
Experience providing consultation to clinical staff or students.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive salary with regular increases.
✓Generous Paid Time Off: 13-26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 paid Federal holidays.
✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility up to $200,000.
✓Federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance plans.
✓Federal pension plan and 401k-style Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with up to 5% agency matching.
✓Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave.
✓Child care subsidy for eligible employees.

💡 How to Apply Social Worker - Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (Bhip) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Social Worker - Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (Bhip) Job

Create a profile and upload your resume on the official federal employment portal.
Download the required VA Clinical Resume template to ensure your submission meets agency standards.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Submit your resume, transcripts, and proof of licensure.
Ensure all documents are submitted by the closing date of September 30, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Be specific in your resume—detail your clinical experience, including volunteer and internship work.
The VA does not make assumptions about your skills; ensure your duties match the KSAs listed in the job description.
Use the provided VA resume template to avoid formatting issues.
Double-check that your license information is clear and current.
Monitor your email for status updates after the announcement closes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Education Debt Reduction Program available for this role?

Yes, this position is eligible for the EDRP, which can provide significant student loan repayment for qualified candidates.

What is the work schedule for this position?

The schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, with options for compressed scheduling.

Can I apply if I am not currently licensed in Alaska?

Basic requirements mandate licensure at the independent level; however, specific waivers may apply for GS-9 positions depending on current state status.

Is relocation assistance provided?

*A: No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this position.*

What is the work environment like?

*A: You will be working within a supportive interdisciplinary team at the Anchorage facility, balancing patient care with collaborative staff meetings.*

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class healthcare to those who have served. The Alaska VA Healthcare System serves as a complexity level 3 facility, providing comprehensive care to Veterans across the state. Joining our team means joining a mission-driven organization that values your professional growth, work-life balance, and, most importantly, the well-being of our Veterans.