Advance Your Career as a Staff Psychologist with the VA
Are you a dedicated mental health professional looking to make a lasting impact on the lives of those who served our nation? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking talented Staff Psychologists to join the Behavioral Health Integrated Program (BHIP) in Nebraska. This position offers a unique blend of clinical challenge, professional growth, and the personal satisfaction that comes from serving America's Veterans.
Job Responsibilities
As a Staff Psychologist, your role is central to the health and well-being of our Veterans. You will perform a variety of essential functions:
- Comprehensive Assessment: Conducting standardized psychological testing and diagnostic evaluations.
- Evidence-Based Therapy: Delivering high-quality psychotherapeutic interventions for individuals, families, and groups.
- Crisis Management: Performing risk assessments for self-harm or harm to others and implementing suicide prevention protocols.
- Multidisciplinary Collaboration: Working alongside doctors, nurses, and social workers to coordinate care in inpatient and outpatient settings.
- Clinical Mentorship: Providing guidance and education to trainees and unlicensed clinical staff.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must meet the following criteria:
- Education: A doctoral degree in psychology from an APA or CPA accredited program.
- Internship: Completion of a professional psychology internship program accredited by the APA or CPA.
- Licensure: An active, unrestricted license to practice psychology.
- Citizenship: U.S. citizenship is required.
Salary Overview
The compensation for this position is competitive and commensurate with experience and grade level.
| Grade Level | Responsibilities | Experience Required |
|---|---|---|
| GS-11 | Entry Level | Basic Requirements |
| GS-12 | Developmental | 1 Year Specialized Experience |
| GS-13 | Full Performance | 2 Years Specialized Experience |
Note: The salary range for these roles spans from approximately $92,662 to $171,691 per year based on qualifications and location.
Benefits
Beyond salary, the VA offers a comprehensive rewards package:
- Student Debt Relief: Access to the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) up to $200,000 and the Student Loan Repayment Program (SLRP).
- Time Off: 13–26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays.
- Retirement: Federal pension and 401(k)-style plans with agency matching.
- Wellness: Competitive health insurance, dental, vision, and paid parental leave.
Application Tips
- Use the Template: Download the VA clinical resume template to ensure you meet format requirements.
- Be Thorough: Clearly document all paid and volunteer clinical experience.
- Monitor Status: Use the USAJOBS dashboard to track your referral status after submitting.
Serving as a Staff Psychologist in Nebraska is more than just a job; it is a commitment to excellence in clinical care and a chance to support the Veterans who have given so much. Apply today and start your journey with the VA.
Why This Staff Psychologist - Behavioral Health Integrated Program (Bhip) Job Matters
Advance your career while making a profound impact on those who served. Join our Behavioral Health Integrated Program and help our nation's Veterans achieve holistic wellness.
Staff Psychologist - Behavioral Health Integrated Program (Bhip) Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Staff Psychologist to join our team in Nebraska. This role offers the opportunity to provide essential behavioral health services within a patient-centered, multidisciplinary environment. As a key member of our team, you will utilize evidence-based practices to improve the mental health and well-being of our Veteran population.
Requirements for Staff Psychologist - Behavioral Health Integrated Program (Bhip)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Doctoral degree in psychology (APA, PCSAS, or CPA accredited)
- Successful completion of an accredited professional psychology internship
- Full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screening
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Staff Psychologist - Behavioral Health Integrated Program (Bhip)
- Experience in behavioral health integrated programs
- Proficiency in administering and interpreting psychological assessments
- Ability to provide evidence-based psychotherapy
- Demonstrated ability to work within multidisciplinary medical teams
- Experience with clinical supervision of trainees or unlicensed staff
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility up to $200,000
- ✓Student Loan Repayment Program (SLRP) up to $60,000
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance
- ✓Traditional federal pension and 401(k) retirement plan
- ✓Generous paid time off (up to 50 days annually)
- ✓Paid parental leave
- ✓Childcare subsidy for eligible employees
💡 How to Apply Staff Psychologist - Behavioral Health Integrated Program (Bhip) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Staff Psychologist - Behavioral Health Integrated Program (Bhip) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account
- Prepare your resume and academic transcripts
- Download and complete the required clinical resume document
- Complete the occupational questionnaire via the provided link
- Submit your full application package before the closing date
💡 General Tips
- Review the 'Required Documents' section carefully to ensure no items are missing.
- Be specific and clear when describing your clinical experience to help recruiters understand your background.
- Utilize the provided standard clinical resume template to streamline the process.
- Apply early; while the position is open until 2026, candidates may be considered as vacancies arise.
- Ensure your license status is documented and current.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is relocation assistance provided for this position?
No, relocation assistance (Permanent Change of Station) is not authorized for this specific vacancy.
Can I apply if I am not currently licensed?
Yes, under specific conditions, non-licensed applicants may be appointed as a 'graduate psychologist' for a temporary period not to exceed two years while completing the licensure process.
What is the work-life balance like in the Nebraska region?
Omaha, Nebraska, has been ranked among the best U.S. cities for work-life balance, featuring a cost of living significantly lower than the national average and a strong, community-focused environment.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Our mission is to fulfill President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." By joining the VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, you become part of a compassionate team dedicated to providing whole-health care in an environment that prioritizes patient-centered results.