Become a Staff Psychologist at the VA: A Rewarding Career in Mental Health

Are you a licensed psychologist looking to make a profound difference in the lives of American Veterans? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in West Haven, Connecticut, is currently seeking a compassionate and skilled Staff Psychologist to join its PTSD Clinical Team. This role is more than just a job; it is a commitment to providing evidence-based, patient-centered care to those who have sacrificed for our country.

About the Veterans Health Administration

The VA is the nation's largest integrated health care system, providing comprehensive care to millions of Veterans. 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." We pride ourselves on our 'I CARE' values: Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence. Joining the VA means becoming part of a community dedicated to innovation, research, and holistic health.

Job Responsibilities

As a Staff Psychologist in the PTSD Firm, you will be on the front lines of mental health care. Your primary duties will include:

Direct Clinical Care: Delivering individual, group, couples, and family therapy to Veterans managing PTSD and Anxiety Disorders.
Evidence-Based Practice: Utilizing gold-standard trauma treatments such as Prolonged Exposure, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Written Exposure Therapy, and EMDR.
Collaboration: Working closely with interdisciplinary teams to ensure coordinated care.
Consultation & Training: Educating staff on ethics, boundaries, and evidence-based interventions.
Program Development: Engaging in clinical research and program evaluation to improve health outcomes.

Requirements

To qualify for this position, candidates must meet the following baseline requirements:

Education: A doctoral degree in psychology from an APA, PCSAS, or CPA-accredited program.
Internship: Completion of a professional psychology internship accredited by the APA or CPA.
Licensure: A full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level.
Proficiency: Must be fluent in written and spoken English.
Suitability: Successful completion of a background investigation and drug screening.

Grade Comparison

Level	Experience Required	Focus
GS-11	Entry Level	Completion of basic education/internship requirements.
GS-12	1+ Year Experience	Developmental role with more independent practice.
GS-13	2+ Years Experience	Full performance role; specialized consultation.

Salary Overview

The position offers a competitive salary range of $93,728 to $173,656 per year, commensurate with your experience and qualifications. Additionally, the role is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which can provide up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement.

Benefits

Working for the VA comes with an industry-leading benefits package designed to support your work-life balance:

Generous Leave: 13–26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays.
Retirement: Federal pension and 401K-style Thrift Savings Plan with employer matching.
Health: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options.
Support: Parental leave and potential childcare subsidies for qualified families.

Application Tips

Use the Template: The VA provides a specific Clinical Resume document—be sure to use it to avoid delays.
Highlight Trauma Experience: Be specific about your experience with trauma treatments like CPT or EMDR.
Check Your SF-50: If you are a federal employee, your most recent SF-50 is mandatory to confirm your grade and step.

If you are ready to advance your career while honoring those who served, the VA invites you to apply. With world-class benefits, loan repayment, and the opportunity to specialize in trauma-informed care, this is an excellent opportunity for any dedicated psychologist.

Why This Staff Psychologist Job Matters

Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served. Join the Department of Veterans Affairs as a Staff Psychologist in West Haven, CT, and deliver life-changing mental health care to our nation's heroes.

Staff Psychologist Job Overview

The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Staff Psychologist to join the PTSD Clinical Team within the Mental Health Care Line. In this vital role, you will provide comprehensive clinical services, including assessment, psychotherapy, and evidence-based trauma treatment for Veterans struggling with PTSD and Anxiety Disorders. This position offers the opportunity to work within a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment focused on recovery-oriented care. You will engage in clinical research, program evaluation, and staff education, ensuring that our Veterans receive the highest standard of evidence-based psychological support.

Requirements for Staff Psychologist

U.S. Citizenship
Doctoral degree in psychology from an APA/PCSAS/CPA-accredited program
Successful completion of an APA/CPA-accredited professional psychology internship
Full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level
Proficiency in written and spoken English
Must pass a pre-employment physical examination
Subject to background and security investigation
Must participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program

Preferred Qualifications for Staff Psychologist

Experience treating PTSD using evidence-based trauma-informed treatments (Prolonged Exposure, Cognitive Processing Therapy, EMDR, etc.)
Demonstrated ability to perform clinical research or program evaluation
Strong consultation skills for multidisciplinary teams
Experience in individual, group, couples, and family psychotherapy

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) up to $200,000
✓37-50 days of annual paid time off
✓Federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance
✓Traditional federal pension and 401K with employer matching
✓Paid parental leave
✓Childcare subsidy for eligible employees
✓Flexible scheduling and potential telework options

💡 How to Apply Staff Psychologist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Staff Psychologist Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Download and complete the mandatory Clinical Resume document provided by the VA.
Prepare your full CV, transcripts, and any applicable certifications or SF-50s.
Complete the occupational questionnaire via the application portal.
Submit your full application package before the closing date.
Monitor your email for status updates and confirmation notifications.

💡 General Tips

Use the specific VA Clinical Resume template provided; standard resumes may not be sufficient.
Clearly articulate your experience with specific trauma-informed treatments (PE, CPT, etc.) in your narrative.
Current federal employees must attach their most recent SF-50 that shows grade and step.
Review your transcript to ensure it meets accreditation standards before applying.
Submit your application early to allow time for troubleshooting any technical issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this position eligible for loan repayment?

Yes, this role is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which provides up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement for qualified participants.

What if I am not yet licensed?

Non-licensed applicants may be appointed as a 'graduate psychologist' on a temporary basis for up to two years, provided they work under the supervision of a licensed psychologist.

How often will candidates be referred?

This is an open continuous announcement. Qualified applicants are referred every other week starting August 13, 2026.

Is relocation assistance provided?

*A: No, this position does not offer relocation or recruitment incentives.

Can I work remotely?

*A: This is not a virtual position. While some telework may be available at the supervisor's discretion, you must be based in the West Haven area.

What is the application deadline?

*A: The position is open until September 18, 2026, with recurring referral periods.