Become a Staff Psychologist at the VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System
Are you a dedicated mental health professional looking to make a meaningful impact? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently hiring a Staff Psychologist for the Tennessee Valley Healthcare System (TVHS) in Clarksville, Tennessee. This role provides an unparalleled opportunity to serve those who have served our country by delivering high-quality, evidence-based mental health care.
About the Agency: The VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System
The VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System is an integrated network providing top-tier medical and psychiatric care. Covering middle Tennessee and southern Kentucky, the system includes two main hospitals and 21 outpatient clinics. TVHS is a leader in healthcare innovation, research, and specialized clinical care, ensuring that over 146,000 Veterans receive the comprehensive, whole-health support they deserve.
Job Responsibilities
As a Staff Psychologist, you will operate within the Outpatient Mental Health Section. Your time will be split between direct clinical care, training, and program evaluation.
Clinical Care (80%)
- Conduct diagnostic interviews and assessments.
- Provide individual and group psychotherapy, with a focus on PTSD and substance abuse.
- Perform neuropsychological screenings.
- Consult with medical staff regarding patient care issues.
Education & Training (10%)
- Supervise psychology trainees and interns.
- Participate in the training committee.
Program Evaluation (5%)
- Use data-driven quality assurance processes to monitor program outcomes.
- Assist in grant proposals and clinical research.
Comparison: Standard vs. VA Clinical Roles
| Feature | Private Practice | VA Staff Psychologist |
|---|---|---|
| Patient Base | General Population | Veteran Population |
| Benefits | Varies | Comprehensive Federal |
| Loan Repayment | Rare | EDRP (Up to $200k) |
| Research | Limited | Encouraged/Supported |
Qualifications and Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must hold a doctoral degree from an APA or CPA accredited program and possess a current, unrestricted psychology license. You must also have successfully completed an accredited professional psychology internship. Proficiency in English and U.S. citizenship are mandatory.
Salary and Benefits
This position is at the GS-13 grade level with a salary range of $126,786 to $164,824. Beyond the base pay, the VA offers:
- EDRP: Student loan reimbursement up to $200,000.
- Retirement: Federal pension and 401K with employer matching.
- Leave: Significant annual, sick, and parental leave.
- Insurance: Extensive federal health and life insurance options.
Application Tips
- Use the Right Template: Download the specific Clinical Resume document provided on the VA Careers site.
- Highlight Specialized Experience: Be explicit about your experience with PTSD and substance abuse treatment.
- Accuracy Matters: Double-check your transcript and license details before submission.
If you are a compassionate psychologist eager to join a mission-driven organization, the VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System offers an ideal environment for professional growth and clinical excellence. Apply today to start your journey with the VA.
Why This Staff Psychologist Job Matters
Advance your career while making a profound impact on the lives of those who served—join the VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System as a Staff Psychologist.
Staff Psychologist Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Staff Psychologist for the Mental Health Care Line at the Tennessee Valley Healthcare System in Clarksville, TN. This role is a vital component of a comprehensive, integrated health care system serving over 146,000 Veterans. The successful candidate will provide essential diagnostic, therapeutic, and consultation services, with a focus on evidence-based treatment for PTSD and substance abuse. This position offers a competitive federal salary, comprehensive benefits, and eligibility for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP).
Requirements for Staff Psychologist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Current, full, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level
- Doctoral degree in psychology from an APA or CPA accredited graduate program
- Completion of an accredited professional psychology internship
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Successful completion of a background and security investigation
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination
- Ability to complete all clinical documentation in a timely manner
Preferred Qualifications for Staff Psychologist
- Extensive experience in treating PTSD and substance abuse disorders
- Demonstrated proficiency in neuropsychological screening and cognitive assessments
- Proven history of providing clinical supervision to psychology trainees
- Active involvement in program evaluation or clinical research
- Experience with tele-mental health modalities
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) up to $200,000
- ✓Comprehensive health, vision, dental, and long-term care insurance
- ✓Federal pension plan and 401K with 5% employer match
- ✓Generous paid time off: 13-26 days of annual leave plus 13 days of sick leave
- ✓11 paid Federal holidays per year
- ✓Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave
- ✓Childcare subsidies for qualifying families
- ✓Professional development and potential faculty affiliations
💡 How to Apply Staff Psychologist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Staff Psychologist Job
- Log into your USAJOBS account or create a new profile.
- Download the standard Clinical Resume template provided by the VA.
- Upload your resume, transcripts, and professional license.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application package before the October 13, 2026, deadline.
- Monitor your email for status notifications.
💡 General Tips
- Use the mandatory VA Clinical Resume template to ensure your application passes the initial screening.
- Be specific in your experience section; do not assume the recruiter knows your scope of practice.
- Ensure all uploaded documents are clearly labeled and in the requested formats.
- Double-check that your license information is current and easily verifiable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) available for this position?
Yes, this position is eligible for the EDRP. Specific eligibility is determined by the VHA after appointment.
What is the primary patient focus for this role?
The role focuses heavily on providing diagnostic and therapeutic services for adult Veterans, specifically regarding PTSD and Substance Abuse.
Is telework available?
This is not a virtual position, but it may have limited ad-hoc telework capabilities depending on specific department needs.