Advancing Veteran Care: Staff Psychologist Careers at the VA in Corpus Christi
Are you a dedicated clinical psychologist seeking a role that combines professional growth with the honor of serving those who have served our country? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently hiring a Staff Psychologist for the Texas Valley Coastal Bend Health Care System. This position offers a competitive salary, a robust federal benefits package, and the opportunity to work in a collaborative, urgent care environment.
Job Responsibilities
The Staff Psychologist (UCMHI) serves within the Mental Health Service Line, focusing on:
- Providing brief, evidence-based mental health interventions (20-30 minutes).
- Assisting the Urgent Care team with rapid assessments for suicidality, psychosis, and acute mental health distress.
- Implementing a Blended Primary Care Mental Health Integration (PCMHI) model.
- Conducting psychological evaluations for diagnostic clarification.
Requirements
Candidates must meet stringent educational and professional standards, including:
- A doctoral degree in psychology (APA, PCSAS, or CPA accredited).
- Successful completion of a professional psychology internship.
- A full, current, and unrestricted license to practice.
- Proficiency in both spoken and written English.
Salary and Grade Comparison
| Level | Grade | Experience Required |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level | GS-11 | Basic Qualifications |
| Developmental | GS-12 | 1 Year at GS-11 level |
| Full Performance | GS-13 | 2 Years professional experience |
Salary range for these positions is $84,114 to $155,852 per year depending on experience and qualifications.
Benefits
Beyond salary, the VA provides an unparalleled benefits package:
- EDRP: Student loan repayment of up to $200,000.
- Work-Life Balance: Up to 50 days of combined leave and holidays per year.
- Retirement: Federal pension and 401(k) matching.
- Family Support: Paid parental leave and child care subsidies.
Application Tips
To maximize your success, ensure you use the official VA clinical resume document. Be specific in your descriptions of previous clinical work, as hiring managers cannot make assumptions about your experience. Always verify your transcripts meet the accreditation standards required by the VA.
This role is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the well-being of America's Veterans. With the potential for significant loan relief and the stability of a federal career, this opportunity in Corpus Christi is an exceptional choice for clinical psychologists.
Why This Staff Psychologist (Ucmhi) - Recruitment/Relocation Incentive/Edrp Authorized Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on Veteran health in Corpus Christi as a Staff Psychologist with the VA—a role offering up to $200,000 in student loan repayment through the EDRP.
Staff Psychologist (Ucmhi) - Recruitment/Relocation Incentive/Edrp Authorized Job Overview
The VA Texas Valley Coastal Bend Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Staff Psychologist to join our Urgent Care Mental Health Integration (UCMHI) team in Corpus Christi, Texas. In this role, you will provide critical, brief, and evidence-based psychological interventions to Veterans, functioning as a vital member of a fast-paced multidisciplinary team. This is a unique opportunity to serve those who have served our nation while working within a collaborative, innovative health care environment that prioritizes patient-centered, urgent mental health care.
Requirements for Staff Psychologist (Ucmhi) - Recruitment/Relocation Incentive/Edrp Authorized
- 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
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Successful background and security investigation
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Staff Psychologist (Ucmhi) - Recruitment/Relocation Incentive/Edrp Authorized
- Experience in Primary Care Mental Health Integration (PCMHI) or Urgent Care settings
- Demonstrated ability in the rapid assessment of risk and mental status
- Experience with triage and coordinating levels of care
- Strong consultation skills for multidisciplinary team environments
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) up to $200,000
- ✓Federal pension plan and 401(k) with agency matching
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- ✓Generous paid time off: 13-26 days annual leave, 13 sick days, 11 paid holidays
- ✓Paid parental leave after 12 months of service
- ✓Child care subsidy for eligible families
💡 How to Apply Staff Psychologist (Ucmhi) - Recruitment/Relocation Incentive/Edrp Authorized Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Staff Psychologist (Ucmhi) - Recruitment/Relocation Incentive/Edrp Authorized Job
- Create or update your account on the official USAJOBS portal.
- Download and complete the required clinical resume document provided by the VA.
- Prepare your supporting documents, including your transcript and professional license.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your full application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly details your experience and aligns with the KSA requirements for your target grade level.
- Use the specific VA clinical resume template to streamline the hiring process.
- Double-check that all required documentation, especially transcripts and licenses, are uploaded as requested.
- Monitor your email for status updates following the close of the announcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for loan repayment?
Yes, this role is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which can provide up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement for qualifying participants.
What is the work schedule for this position?
The position operates Monday through Friday, from 1:00 PM to 9:30 PM.
Can I apply if I am not yet licensed?
Non-licensed applicants may be eligible for a temporary 'graduate psychologist' appointment under specific conditions, provided they obtain full licensure within a two-year window.
Is relocation assistance offered?
Relocation incentives may be authorized for qualified candidates who must move to accept this position.
What is the primary location for this job?
This position is located in Corpus Christi, Texas.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The VA Texas Valley Coastal Bend Health Care System is a premier, Joint Commission-accredited organization. Serving over 50,000 enrolled Veterans, the system operates across multiple clinics and an Ambulatory Surgical Center in Harlingen. Affiliated with the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Medical School, the facility serves as an innovative teaching site for medical residents and health professionals.