Launch Your Career as a Marriage and Family Therapist with the VA

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class, holistic care to the men and women who have served our country. If you are a dedicated Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) with a passion for clinical excellence and service, the Readjustment Counseling Service is offering an incredible opportunity to join a multidisciplinary team. This role provides the chance to make a profound impact on the lives of Veterans and their families during their most challenging times.

Job Responsibilities

As an MFT within the VA, you will serve as a pillar of support. Your duties will be diverse and highly rewarding:

Crisis Intervention: Provide expert assessment and intervention for high-risk situations, including suicide prevention.
Therapeutic Services: Deliver evidence-based psychotherapy to individuals, groups, couples, and families.
Collaboration: Partner with regional suicide prevention coordinators, crisis hotlines, and community partners.
Clinical Documentation: Maintain accurate, timely, and thorough electronic health records.
Training: Provide mentorship and clinical oversight to students and pre-licensure staff.

Requirements

To qualify for this position, applicants must meet specific federal standards:

Education: A Master's or Doctoral degree in MFT or a related mental health field.
Licensure: A current, full, and unrestricted license to practice independently.
Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
Experience: GS-11 level requires at least one year of post-graduate clinical experience.

Salary and Grade Comparison

Grade Level	Experience Requirement	Potential Salary Range
GS-09	Basic Requirements (Entry)	$62,392 - $110,905
GS-11	1 Year Post-Master's	$62,392 - $110,905

Benefits

Joining the VA provides more than just a job; it provides a comprehensive career package:

EDRP: Potential for up to $200,000 in student loan debt reduction.
Work-Life Balance: Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
Stability: Federal employment benefits, including high-quality health insurance and retirement plans.

Application Tips

Use the Template: Always download and use the official VA clinical resume document provided in the job announcement.
Be Detailed: Federal hiring managers cannot infer experience. Detail your specific clinical hours and duties.
Submit Early: Don't wait until the final hours to upload your transcripts and licenses.

Serving our nation’s Veterans is a calling that requires heart, skill, and dedication. As a Marriage and Family Therapist with the VA, you will find a supportive environment where your clinical expertise is valued. Prepare your application materials today and take the next step in a meaningful career.

Why This Marriage And Family Therapist Job Matters

Join a dedicated team at the Department of Veterans Affairs and provide life-changing mental health support to those who have served our nation.

Marriage And Family Therapist Job Overview

The Readjustment Counseling Service of the Veterans Health Administration is seeking a compassionate Marriage and Family Therapist to provide critical, evidence-based care. This role focuses on crisis intervention, suicide prevention, and long-term readjustment support for Veterans and their families, ensuring they receive the high-quality care they have earned.

Requirements for Marriage And Family Therapist

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Hold a Master's or Doctoral degree in Marriage and Family Therapy (or a comparable mental health field meeting VA standards).
Possess a full, current, and unrestricted license to practice independently in a state.
For GS-11: Completion of at least one year of post-master's experience in the field.
Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959.
Proficiency in written and spoken English.
Ability to complete a successful background and security investigation.
Willingness to participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.

Preferred Qualifications for Marriage And Family Therapist

Demonstrated expertise in family systems theory and evidence-based psychotherapy.
Experience in crisis risk assessment and suicide prevention.
Strong skills in clinical documentation and electronic health record systems.
Ability to provide clinical supervision to pre-licensure staff or graduate students.
Proven experience working with diverse military or Veteran populations.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility up to $200,000.
✓Competitive federal salary and benefits package.
✓Opportunities for professional growth and career advancement within the VA system.
✓Accrual of annual and sick leave based on federal service time.
✓Comprehensive health and retirement planning.

💡 How to Apply Marriage And Family Therapist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Marriage And Family Therapist Job

Create or update your account on USAJobs.
Download the standard Clinical Resume Document via the link provided on the VA Careers site.
Prepare your documents, including transcripts and current licensure.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Upload all required materials, including your clinical resume and, if applicable, proof of veteran preference (DD-214).
Submit your application package before the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Be specific in your resume; the VA does not make assumptions about your experience.
Use the specific VA Clinical Resume template to ensure your application is processed correctly.
Double-check that your license information is clear and documented.
Apply early to avoid technical issues on the closing date.
Monitor your email for status updates after the announcement closes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply if I am not yet fully licensed?

Yes, for the GS-9 entry-level position, you may be considered if you are actively working toward state licensure, provided you meet other educational requirements.

Is the Education Debt Reduction Program available for this role?

Yes, this position is eligible for the EDRP. Eligibility and specific award amounts are determined after appointment based on VHA policy.

Are there physical requirements for this job?

This position does not have inherent physical requirements that cannot be managed through reasonable workplace accommodation.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Readjustment Counseling Service (RCS) is a vital part of the Veterans Health Administration. RCS specializes in supporting combat veterans, those who have experienced military sexual trauma, and families dealing with the complexities of readjusting to civilian life. By providing direct counseling, community outreach, and emergency interventions, the agency serves as a bridge for Veterans seeking support, connection, and health.