A Career of Impact: Hiring Psychologists at the South Texas Veterans Health Care System
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking a highly skilled Clinical Psychologist for the Primary Care Mental Health Integration (PCMHI) program. Located in beautiful San Antonio, Texas, this role offers an exceptional opportunity for mental health professionals to integrate behavioral health into primary care, providing Veterans with the comprehensive, whole-person care they deserve.
Job Responsibilities
As a PCMHI Psychologist, your work will be diverse and highly valued. Key duties include:
- Clinical Care: Delivering brief, evidence-based interventions for mood, anxiety, and medical-related conditions.
- Consultation: Working alongside Primary Care Providers (PCPs) to enhance treatment plans and strengthen the provider-patient relationship.
- Program Development: Participating in clinical quality improvement and shaping the delivery of mental health services.
- Leadership: Mentoring staff, supervising trainees, and potentially engaging in academic research.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria:
- Hold a doctoral degree in psychology from an APA/PCSAS/CPA accredited program.
- Have completed an accredited professional psychology internship.
- Possess a full, current, and unrestricted state license.
- Demonstrate English language proficiency.
Grade Comparison
| Grade | Experience Required |
|---|---|
| GS-11 | None beyond basic requirements (Entry) |
| GS-12 | 1 year at GS-11 equivalent (Developmental) |
| GS-13 | 2 years professional experience, 1 at GS-12 (Full Performance) |
Salary and Benefits
The salary range for this position is $94,397 to $174,906 per year. Beyond compensation, employees enjoy:
- Education Debt Relief: Access to the EDRP program.
- Time Off: Up to 50 days of combined leave and holidays.
- Retirement: Excellent federal pension and matching 401(k) contributions.
- Insurance: Comprehensive federal health and life insurance programs.
Application Tips
- Use the official Clinical Resume Template.
- Be explicit about your post-doctoral experience.
- Verify that all licenses and transcripts are current and attached.
If you are a passionate psychologist dedicated to evidence-based care and the mission of serving our nation's heroes, we encourage you to apply. Your expertise will bridge the gap between mental and physical health, ensuring Veterans receive the high-quality care they earned.
Why This Psychologist - Primary Care Mental Health Integration (Pcmhi) - Edrp Authorized Job Matters
Advance your career while serving those who served. The VA is seeking a dedicated Psychologist to lead integrated mental health services in San Antonio, offering a generous salary and education debt relief.
Psychologist - Primary Care Mental Health Integration (Pcmhi) - Edrp Authorized Job Overview
Join the South Texas Veterans Health Care System as a Primary Care Mental Health Integration (PCMHI) Psychologist. This critical role focuses on delivering brief, evidence-based mental health interventions directly within primary care settings. You will collaborate with interdisciplinary PACT teams to provide comprehensive diagnostic services, suicide risk assessments, and consultations, significantly impacting the patient-centered care journey of our nation’s Veterans.
Requirements for Psychologist - Primary Care Mental Health Integration (Pcmhi) - Edrp Authorized
- U.S. Citizenship (unless specific recruitment exceptions apply).
- Doctoral degree in psychology from an APA/PCSAS/CPA accredited program.
- Completion of an APA/CPA accredited professional psychology internship.
- Full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment background check and drug screening.
- Compliance with annual influenza vaccination requirements.
Preferred Qualifications for Psychologist - Primary Care Mental Health Integration (Pcmhi) - Edrp Authorized
- Experience working within interdisciplinary healthcare teams.
- Training and experience in evidence-based psychotherapies.
- Completion of an APA-accredited postdoctoral fellowship.
- Experience working with diverse or Veteran patient populations.
- Background in administrative or clinical process improvement initiatives.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000).
- ✓Federal pension and 401(k) retirement system with 5% match.
- ✓37–50 days of paid time off per year.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
- ✓Paid parental leave after 12 months.
- ✓Potential for childcare subsidies for eligible families.
💡 How to Apply Psychologist - Primary Care Mental Health Integration (Pcmhi) - Edrp Authorized Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Psychologist - Primary Care Mental Health Integration (Pcmhi) - Edrp Authorized Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your resume using the required Clinical Resume Template.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire through the application link.
- Upload all necessary supporting documentation (Transcripts, Licensure, SF-50 if applicable).
- Submit your application package prior to the cut-off date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifically reflects post-doctoral experience.
- Be precise when documenting volunteer or unpaid professional experience.
- Double-check that you have uploaded the mandatory clinical template to the 'Resume' section.
- Apply before the initial cut-off date of September 7, 2026, to ensure priority review.
- Reach out to the listed agency contact early if you require reasonable accommodations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) available for this position?
Yes, this position is eligible for EDRP. Eligible candidates may receive student loan reimbursements of up to $200,000 depending on final program approval.
Can I apply if I am not yet licensed?
Non-licensed candidates meeting basic educational requirements may be appointed as a 'graduate psychologist' temporarily for up to two years, provided they practice under the supervision of a licensed psychologist.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The South Texas Veterans Health Care System (STVHCS) is a pillar of the community, operating the Audie L. Murphy Memorial VA Hospital and a network of outpatient clinics. Serving over 114,000 Veterans across 35 counties, the STVHCS is a leader in clinical innovation, research, and education, maintaining strong affiliations with UT Health San Antonio.