Empowering Veterans: Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor Opportunities at St. Cloud VA
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class, holistic healthcare to the men and women who have served our nation. We are currently searching for a compassionate and highly skilled Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (LPMHC) to join our team at the St. Cloud VA Health Care System in Minnesota. This role offers the unique opportunity to provide vital mental health services in a setting that prioritizes the Whole Health of every Veteran.
Job Responsibilities
As an LPMHC, you will work within the Mental Health Integrated Clinical Community. Your primary duties will include:
- Clinical Assessment: Conducting comprehensive biopsychosocial assessments and establishing DSM-5 diagnoses.
- Treatment Planning: Designing recovery-focused treatment plans in collaboration with an interdisciplinary team.
- Therapeutic Services: Providing individual, couples, family, and group psychotherapy.
- Crisis Management: Executing suicide and homicide risk assessments and developing immediate safety plans.
- Coordination of Care: Bridging internal and community resources to ensure continuous support for Veterans.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Education: A Master's or Doctoral degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling or a related field from a CACREP-accredited program.
- Licensure: A current, full, and unrestricted license to independently practice.
- Driving Record: Must hold a valid, unrestricted driver's license.
Comparison: GS-09 vs. GS-11 Levels
| Feature | GS-09 (Entry Level) | GS-11 (Full Performance Level) |
|---|---|---|
| Experience | Fundamental knowledge required | 1+ year post-master's experience |
| Independence | High level of clinical supervision | Autonomous evaluations & decision making |
| Crisis Intervention | Basic skill set | Advanced mastery and complex judgment |
| Consultation | Participating member | Subject matter expert for trainees |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive federal salary range of $67,920 to $105,845 per year, depending on qualifications and grade level selection.
Benefits
Employees of the VA enjoy robust federal benefits, including:
- Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
- Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
- Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Access to the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) for long-term financial security.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances, ensure your application package is complete. Use the standardized VA Clinical Resume template found on the VA Careers website, and clearly document how your past experience aligns with the specific Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) listed in the announcement.
Serving those who have served is more than just a job; it is a calling. If you are a dedicated mental health professional ready to make a tangible difference in the lives of Veterans, we encourage you to apply to the St. Cloud VA today.
Why This Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor-Mental Health Out Patient Job Matters
Empower those who served our nation by providing transformative mental health care at the St. Cloud VA Health Care System.
Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor-Mental Health Out Patient Job Overview
The St. Cloud VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (LPMHC) to join the Mental Health Integrated Clinical Community. This role is pivotal in delivering comprehensive psychotherapy, crisis intervention, and holistic care coordination for Veterans navigating complex psychosocial and behavioral health challenges. You will work within an interdisciplinary team to foster recovery, advocate for patient wellness, and ensure continuity of care in a supportive, mission-driven environment.
Requirements for Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor-Mental Health Out Patient
- United States Citizenship
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Master’s or doctoral degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling or a closely related field from a CACREP-accredited program
- Current, full, and unrestricted license to independently practice mental health counseling
- Valid, unrestricted driver’s license
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
- Ability to pass a background and security investigation
Preferred Qualifications for Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor-Mental Health Out Patient
- One year of post-master’s or post-doctoral mental health counseling experience
- Expertise in evidence-based psychotherapy and crisis intervention
- Demonstrated ability to facilitate psycho-educational and support groups
- Strong proficiency in interdisciplinary collaboration and treatment planning
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Generous paid time off and federal holidays
- ✓Federal retirement savings plan (TSP)
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities
- ✓Supportive, mission-driven work environment
💡 How to Apply Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor-Mental Health Out Patient Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor-Mental Health Out Patient Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Complete the required occupational questionnaire via the provided portal link.
- Prepare your documents, including your resume, transcript, and valid professional license.
- Download and complete the required standard Clinical Resume Document from the VA careers site.
- Submit your full application package before the closing date of September 30, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly details your specific clinical experience; do not assume prior knowledge of your background.
- Verify that your transcript is legible and officially recognizes your degree program.
- Upload the specific VA Clinical Resume template as requested to the correct document field.
- Check your USAJOBS status portal frequently for updates after the announcement closes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I am currently pending my license?
Applicants pending the completion of the licensure requirement may be selected for the GS-09 level and provided a temporary appointment for up to three years.
Is this a remote or telework position?
No, this is an onsite position based at the St. Cloud VA in Minnesota and does not offer telework or remote work options.
Is relocation assistance offered?
*A: No, relocation or recruitment incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.*
What is the work schedule?
*A: The role operates on a standard Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM schedule.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The St. Cloud VA Health Care System has provided excellence in medical care since 1924. Serving over 38,000 Veterans, our facilities include the main medical center in St. Cloud and community-based outpatient clinics in Alexandria, Brainerd, and Montevideo. Our mission is to honor President Lincoln's promise to care for those who have served and their families.