Advance Your Career as a Staff Psychologist with the Veterans Health Administration
Are you a dedicated mental health professional seeking a role that combines clinical excellence with a profound sense of purpose? The Syracuse VA Medical Center is actively recruiting a Staff Psychologist to join its Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (BHIP). This is an outstanding opportunity to support those who have served our country while working in a collaborative, mission-driven environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a member of the BHIP team, you will manage a caseload providing outpatient services to Veterans. Your daily tasks will include:
- Evidence-Based Treatment: Delivering trauma-informed and strength-based therapy.
- Assessment: Performing psychosocial assessments and developing measurable treatment plans.
- Crisis Management: Providing rapid intervention and determining appropriate levels of care.
- Collaboration: Working alongside interdisciplinary team members to ensure coordinated care.
Core Competencies Comparison
| Level | Experience Required | Focus Area |
|---|---|---|
| GS-11 | Meets basic requirements | Entry-level clinical practice |
| GS-12 | 1 year professional experience | Developmental/Supervised practice |
| GS-13 | 2 years professional experience | Full performance/Consultation |
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must be a U.S. Citizen, hold a doctoral degree in psychology from an accredited program, and possess a current, unrestricted license. Proficiency in written and spoken English is mandatory, along with the ability to pass a background investigation.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary range of $74,678 to $138,370 per year. Beyond the paycheck, the VA provides one of the most comprehensive benefits packages in the federal government, including the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which offers up to $200,000 for student loan reimbursement.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply through the official USAJOBS portal. Ensure your application is complete, including the specific Clinical Resume document required by the VA, to be considered before the September 30, 2026 deadline.
Becoming a Staff Psychologist for the VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to excellence in mental health care. Apply today to help serve the men and women who have sacrificed so much for our nation.
Why This Psychologist (Bhip) Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served our nation by joining the Syracuse VA Medical Center as a Staff Psychologist.
Psychologist (Bhip) Job Overview
The Syracuse VA Medical Center is seeking a dedicated Staff Psychologist to join the Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (BHIP). In this vital role, you will provide comprehensive outpatient mental health services to Veterans, utilizing evidence-based treatment modalities to support their recovery and well-being. Serving a broad area across thirteen counties, you will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to deliver high-quality, trauma-informed care through in-person sessions and telehealth platforms.
Requirements for Psychologist (Bhip)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Doctoral degree in psychology from an APA, PCSAS, or CPA accredited program
- Completion of a professional psychology internship accredited by APA or CPA
- Full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Background and security investigation clearance
- Completion of a 1- or 2-year trial period
Preferred Qualifications for Psychologist (Bhip)
- Experience in evidence-based psychotherapy modalities such as CBT and CPT
- Proficiency in conducting comprehensive psychosocial assessments
- Ability to work effectively within an interdisciplinary mental health team
- Familiarity with Measurement-Based Care tools
- Experience with crisis intervention and stabilization techniques
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility up to $200,000
- ✓37-50 days of paid time off annually
- ✓11 paid Federal holidays
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- ✓Federal 401(k) with up to 5% employer contribution
- ✓Traditional federal pension
- ✓Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave
💡 How to Apply Psychologist (Bhip) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Psychologist (Bhip) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account
- Complete the occupational questionnaire
- Upload your resume, ensuring it meets the VA Clinical Resume format requirements
- Attach supporting documents like transcripts or professional licenses
- Submit your application package before the closing date of September 30, 2026
💡 General Tips
- Use the specific VA Clinical Resume template provided to avoid disqualification
- Be descriptive and specific regarding your post-doctoral experience
- Ensure all educational documents are from accredited institutions
- Check your application status regularly through your USAJOBS dashboard
- Verify that your licensure is current and unrestricted in a U.S. state or territory
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for student loan repayment?
Yes, this position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which may provide up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement.
Can I work remotely for this position?
No, this is not a virtual position. You will be expected to work onsite at the Syracuse VA Medical Center or its associated clinics.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." As a Staff Psychologist within the Veterans Health Administration, you will play a critical role in providing compassionate, whole-health care to Veterans in New York.