Advance Your Career as a Staff Psychologist with the VA in McAllen, Texas
Are you looking to combine your clinical expertise with a mission-driven career? The VA Texas Valley Coastal Bend Health Care System is currently accepting applications for a Staff Psychologist within their Substance Abuse Treatment Program (SATP). This is a unique opportunity to serve our nation's Veterans while enjoying the stability and benefits of federal employment.
Job Responsibilities
The SATP Psychologist provides essential mental health support. Your duties will include:
- Diagnostic Assessment: Utilizing the DSM-5 to diagnose and treat mental health and substance use disorders.
- Psychotherapy: Delivering evidence-based treatments such as CPT or PE to Veterans.
- Clinical Consultation: Acting as a resource for other staff members regarding psychological care.
- Education & Training: Serving as a supervisor for pre-doctoral interns and practicum students.
Comparison of Grade Levels
| Level | Experience Requirement |
|---|---|
| GS-11 | Basic doctoral and licensure requirements |
| GS-12 | One year of experience equivalent to GS-11 |
| GS-13 | Two years of professional experience (one year at GS-12) |
Requirements
To be eligible, you must hold a doctoral degree from an APA/PCSAS/CPA accredited program and possess a valid, unrestricted license to practice psychology. Candidates must be U.S. Citizens, undergo a background investigation, and participate in the mandatory flu vaccination program.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $84,114 to $155,852 annually. Beyond the paycheck, you will receive:
- EDRP: Student loan repayment up to $200,000.
- Incentives: Potential for recruitment or relocation bonuses.
- Leave: Up to 50 days of paid time off (leave plus holidays).
- Retirement: Federal pension and 401k matching.
How to Apply
Ensure you have your transcript and license documentation ready. You must submit your application through the official USAJOBS platform by the closing date of November 20, 2026. Follow the instructions to upload the standard clinical resume to ensure your qualifications are properly evaluated.
If you are a clinical professional seeking a meaningful role with excellent compensation and long-term career growth, the VA in McAllen is the place to be. Apply today to help us support the heroes who have done so much for our country.
Why This Staff Psychologist (Satp) - Recruitment/Relocation Incentive/Edrp Authorized Job Matters
Make a lasting impact on the lives of those who served our nation as a Staff Psychologist for the VA Texas Valley Coastal Bend Health Care System, with generous incentives including student loan repayment assistance and professional development opportunities.
Staff Psychologist (Satp) - Recruitment/Relocation Incentive/Edrp Authorized Job Overview
The VA Texas Valley Coastal Bend Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Staff Psychologist to join our Substance Abuse Treatment Program (SATP). In this role, you will provide critical mental health care, diagnostic assessments, and evidence-based psychotherapy to Veterans dealing with substance use and co-occurring mental health challenges. You will work within an interdisciplinary team, utilizing both in-person and tele-mental health modalities to serve a population of over 50,000 Veterans across South Texas. This position is perfect for a clinician passionate about research, teaching, and improving the lives of our nation's heroes.
Requirements for Staff Psychologist (Satp) - Recruitment/Relocation Incentive/Edrp Authorized
- U.S. Citizenship
- Doctoral degree in psychology from an APA, PCSAS, or CPA accredited graduate program
- Completion of an APA or CPA accredited professional psychology internship
- Full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Completion of a background and security investigation
- Successful drug screening for testing-designated positions
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Staff Psychologist (Satp) - Recruitment/Relocation Incentive/Edrp Authorized
- One or more years of professional clinical experience
- Demonstrated expertise in evidence-based practices such as CPT, PE, or CBT for Substance Use Disorders
- Experience in substance use treatment services
- Background in clinical research and supervision of psychology trainees
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility up to $200,000
- ✓Recruitment or relocation incentives for qualified candidates
- ✓37-50 days of paid time off per year (annual leave, sick leave, and holidays)
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- ✓Traditional federal pension plan and 401k with 5% matching
- ✓Paid parental leave after 12 months of service
- ✓Childcare subsidy program for eligible employees
💡 How to Apply Staff Psychologist (Satp) - Recruitment/Relocation Incentive/Edrp Authorized Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Staff Psychologist (Satp) - Recruitment/Relocation Incentive/Edrp Authorized Job
- Prepare a resume that includes all work history and volunteer experience
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire
- Upload required documentation, including your CV and clinical resume
- Submit your application package through the online portal by the closing date
💡 General Tips
- Use the standard Clinical Resume document provided by the VA for your primary upload
- Ensure your resume is detailed; do not leave room for the hiring team to make assumptions about your experience
- Check your USAJOBS dashboard periodically for updates on your application status
- If applying based on education, ensure your transcript clearly shows the accreditation status of your program
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) available for this position?
Yes, this position is eligible for the EDRP, which can provide student loan reimbursement of up to $200,000.
Can I work remotely for this position?
This is an onsite position, not a virtual one. While some telework may be approved on an ad-hoc basis, you are expected to be available at the facility.
What level of experience is required for the GS-13 grade?
Applicants for the GS-13 level generally require at least two years of professional experience as a psychologist, with at least one year equivalent to the GS-12 level.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in our military, as well as their families and survivors. The Texas Valley Coastal Bend Health Care System (VATVCBHCS) is a dynamic organization that serves over 50,000 Veterans. They operate across South Texas with an Ambulatory Surgical Center, numerous Community-Based Outpatient Clinics, and mobile units, making them a pillar of health in the Rio Grande Valley.