Advance Your Clinical Career as a Staff Psychologist with the VA

Are you a dedicated psychologist looking for a role that combines professional complexity with a high quality of life? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking compassionate, skilled Staff Psychologists to join our team at the Sheridan VA Medical Center. If you are passionate about providing state-of-the-art mental health care to those who have served our country, this is an exceptional opportunity to build a rewarding career.

Job Responsibilities

As a Staff Psychologist, you will play a critical role in our Mental Health Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Programs. Your daily tasks will include:

Clinical Treatment: Developing and implementing individualized treatment plans for Veterans.
Counseling: Providing both individual and group therapy sessions.
Crisis Management: Handling mental health crises with autonomy and professional judgment.
Collaboration: Working alongside psychiatrists, nursing staff, and case managers within an interdisciplinary framework.
Mentorship: Serving as a preceptor or supervisor for interns and emerging clinicians.
Documentation: Maintaining accurate electronic medical records.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Must hold a doctoral degree in psychology from an APA/PCSAS/CPA accredited institution.
Completion of a full-year, accredited psychology internship.
Possession of a current, unrestricted license to practice psychology.
U.S. Citizenship or meeting specific VA exceptions for non-citizens.
Proficiency in both written and spoken English.

Grade Level Comparison Table

Grade Level	Experience Required	Typical Focus
GS-11	Basic requirements met (entry)	Foundational clinical care
GS-12	1 year at GS-11 equivalent	Developmental role; increased independence
GS-13	2 years professional experience	Full performance; advanced consultation

Salary and Benefits

This role offers a highly competitive annual salary ranging from $85,453 to $158,334. Beyond the base compensation, the VA provides a comprehensive benefits package designed for long-term security and wellness:

EDRP: Student loan reimbursement of up to $200,000.
Leave: Generous annual leave and sick leave accrual.
Insurance: Federal health, dental, and vision programs.
Retirement: Federal pension and 401k-style savings plan with matching contributions.
Work-Life Balance: Paid parental leave and childcare subsidies for eligible employees.

Application Tips

Use the Required Template: Always use the official VA clinical resume document available in the job portal.
Highlight Evidence-Based Practices: Clearly mention your experience with CBT, DBT, or ACT.
Detail Your Experience: Do not leave room for assumptions; describe your clinical work with specific populations (e.g., PTSD, SUD).
Monitor Your Status: Keep an eye on your USAJOBS dashboard for referral notifications.

Serving our nation’s Veterans as a Staff Psychologist is more than a job—it is a meaningful calling. With competitive pay, substantial debt reduction benefits, and the chance to live in the scenic West, the Sheridan VA Medical Center is the perfect place to grow your career. Apply today to begin your journey.

Why This Staff Psychologist - Mental Health Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Programs Counselor Job Matters

Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served our nation while advancing your clinical career in the heart of Wyoming’s beautiful landscape.

Staff Psychologist - Mental Health Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Programs Counselor Job Overview

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) at the Sheridan VA Medical Center is seeking a dedicated Staff Psychologist to join our Mental Health Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Programs. This role is perfect for a clinical professional who values a patient-centered approach and wants to provide state-of-the-art care to Veterans. Situated on 296 historic acres, our facility offers an ideal balance of professional challenge and a high quality of life, placing you between Yellowstone and Mount Rushmore.

Requirements for Staff Psychologist - Mental Health Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Programs Counselor

U.S. Citizenship (Non-citizens may only be appointed if qualified citizens are unavailable).
Doctoral degree in psychology from an APA, PCSAS, or CPA accredited program.
Completion of a professional psychology internship accredited by APA or CPA (or approved equivalents).
Possess a full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level.
Proficiency in written and spoken English.
Successful completion of a background/security investigation.
Ability to complete a trial period of one to two years.

Preferred Qualifications for Staff Psychologist - Mental Health Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Programs Counselor

Extensive experience in individual and group therapies focusing on PTSD and Substance Use Disorders (SUD).
Training in evidence-based practices such as CBT, ACT, DBT, and MI.
Proven ability to work effectively within interdisciplinary medical teams.
Strong proficiency in suicide prevention and mental health crisis intervention.
Experience in teaching, mentoring, or supervising interns and junior clinicians.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility up to $200,000.
✓Generous paid time off: 13-26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 Federal holidays.
✓12 weeks of paid parental leave after one year of employment.
✓Federal retirement system with 401k-style matching up to 5%.
✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance.
✓Childcare subsidy for eligible families.
✓Recruitment incentive (sign-on bonus) may be available for GS-13 roles.

💡 How to Apply Staff Psychologist - Mental Health Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Programs Counselor Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Staff Psychologist - Mental Health Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Programs Counselor Job

Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Download and complete the required standard Clinical Resume Document from the provided link.
Prepare your full CV and supporting documentation, including transcripts and licensure proof.
Complete the occupational questionnaire via the USAJOBS portal.
Submit your entire application package by 11:59 PM (ET) on October 26, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Be specific and clear when describing your work history; avoid leaving room for assumptions.
Use the specific Clinical Resume template provided by the VA to ensure your application meets formatting standards.
Ensure your license status and any relevant board certifications are clearly documented.
Monitor your email for status notifications throughout the hiring process.
Reach out to the contact person listed if you require assistance with the application process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a virtual position?

No, this is an on-site, in-person position at the Sheridan VA Medical Center.

What is the EDRP program and am I eligible?

The Education Debt Reduction Program provides student loan reimbursement for qualifying clinicians. Eligibility and award amounts are determined after a thorough review of your application by the VHA Education Loan Repayment Services.

Can I apply if I am not currently licensed?

Non-licensed applicants meeting other eligibility criteria may be hired as a 'graduate psychologist' under temporary appointment for up to two years, provided they work under the direct supervision of a licensed psychologist.

What is the residency requirement for this role?

This is an on-site, physical presence position located in Sheridan, WY.

Can I still apply if I have student loans?

Yes, this position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which assists in paying down qualified student loans.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Sheridan VA Medical Center is a cornerstone of health care in Wyoming. Nestled in a region known for its breathtaking mountain views and outdoor recreation, the facility operates within a 296-acre historic campus. Our medical center provides a full spectrum of care, including acute, chronic inpatient, and outpatient mental health services for nearly 12,000 Veterans. We pride ourselves on an integrated, patient-centered approach that honors the promises made to our nation’s heroes.