Providing Excellence: Careers as a Mental Health Therapist with the VA
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to providing high-quality, compassionate care to the men and women who have defended our country. As a Licensed Professional Mental Health Therapist, you play a pivotal role in this mission, helping Veterans navigate mental health challenges and reclaim their well-being. If you are a dedicated clinician with a passion for service, this role in Chesapeake, Virginia, offers a unique opportunity to grow professionally while giving back to those who have served.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will provide critical clinical support, including:
- Conducting psychosocial assessments and intake interviews.
- Developing individualized treatment plans in collaboration with the Veteran.
- Providing individual, couples, family, and group therapy.
- Serving as a mental health coordinator for your assigned team.
- Managing high-risk cases and providing crisis intervention services.
- Documenting care in electronic medical record systems.
Requirements
To be considered, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Education: A Master’s or doctoral degree in an accredited mental health program.
- Licensure: An active, unrestricted license for independent practice.
- Citizenship: U.S. citizenship is required.
- Technical Proficiency: Ability to adapt to VHA computer systems and Telehealth technologies.
Salary and Grade Comparison
| Grade Level | Scope of Responsibility | Expected Experience |
|---|---|---|
| GS-09 | Entry Level | <1 year post-master's or limited licensure |
| GS-11 | Full Performance | 1+ year post-graduate clinical experience |
Benefits
The VA provides a robust benefits package that balances professional work with personal life, including health insurance, retirement planning, and significant leave accrual rates.
Application Tips
- Use the official VA resume template.
- Clearly link your past experience to the KSA requirements.
- Ensure all documentation is error-free.
Serving as a mental health therapist within the VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the welfare of our nation's heroes. With a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and a clear path for professional growth, this position is ideal for clinicians ready to make an immediate impact.
Why This Licensed Professional Mental Health Therapist Job Matters
Join a dedicated team at the Department of Veterans Affairs and make a lasting impact by providing essential mental health support to those who have served our nation.
Licensed Professional Mental Health Therapist Job Overview
The Hampton Virginia VA Medical Center is seeking a compassionate and skilled Licensed Professional Mental Health Therapist to join our team at the North Battlefield Community Based Outpatient Clinic in Chesapeake, Virginia. This role offers the chance to work within an interdisciplinary team, providing vital mental health interventions, case management, and crisis support to our nation's Veterans.
Requirements for Licensed Professional Mental Health Therapist
- U.S. Citizenship status.
- Master’s or doctoral degree in a relevant clinical mental health field from a CACREP-accredited program.
- Full, current, and unrestricted license to independently practice as a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Successful completion of a background/security investigation.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Ability to perform essential clinical functions, including diagnosis and treatment planning.
Preferred Qualifications for Licensed Professional Mental Health Therapist
- Experience in crisis intervention and stabilization.
- Mastery of DSM-5 diagnostic criteria and formulation of treatment goals.
- Proven experience in group and family counseling modalities.
- Proficiency with Telehealth delivery systems and electronic health records.
- Demonstrated ability to function effectively within an interdisciplinary healthcare team.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary and annual pay increases.
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- ✓Generous paid time off, including federal holidays and sick leave.
- ✓Federal retirement benefits including the Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent).
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.
- ✓Access to a supportive, mission-focused work environment.
💡 How to Apply Licensed Professional Mental Health Therapist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Licensed Professional Mental Health Therapist Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS profile.
- Download the required VA standard Clinical Resume document.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire via the provided link.
- Upload your resume, transcripts, licensure proof, and any applicable veterans' preference documents.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of August 21, 2026.
- Monitor your email for status notifications.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifically addresses the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) listed in the vacancy announcement.
- Double-check that all required documents, including licensure and educational transcripts, are legible and attached.
- Use the specific VA clinical resume template to streamline your application.
- Submit early to avoid technical issues as the closing deadline approaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
What level of license is required for this position?
Candidates must hold a full, current, and unrestricted license to independently practice as a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor.
Can I apply if I am not a U.S. citizen?
U.S. Citizenship is generally required. Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA policy.
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an onsite position located at the North Battlefield Community Based Outpatient Clinic in Chesapeake, Virginia.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Working for the VHA means being part of a vast, collaborative network committed to innovation, research, and holistic care. At the North Battlefield Community Based Outpatient Clinic, you will be joining a team of professionals focused on delivering patient-centered mental health care in an inclusive and supportive environment.