Providing Compassionate Care: Marriage and Family Therapist Careers at the VA
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class healthcare to the men and women who have served our nation. As a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) with the VA Central Iowa Health Care System, you play a critical role in this mission. We are currently seeking a dedicated clinical professional to join our Substance Use Disorder (SUD) treatment team, where you will provide holistic, evidence-based care to Veterans and their families in the Des Moines area.
Job Responsibilities
As an MFT, your daily work will be multifaceted and deeply impactful. Your primary duties will include:
- Conducting comprehensive psychosocial and substance use disorder intake assessments.
- Developing and re-evaluating treatment plans in collaboration with an interdisciplinary team.
- Providing individual, group, and family counseling focused on substance use recovery.
- Assisting Veterans in navigating grief, disability, and major life transitions.
- Maintaining thorough clinical documentation within the VA’s Electronic Health Record system.
Comparison of Grade Levels
| Feature | GS-9 (Entry Level) | GS-11 (Full Performance) |
|---|---|---|
| Licensure | Working toward full licensure | Fully licensed for independent practice |
| Experience | Post-master's/doctoral progress | Minimum 1 year post-master's experience |
| Supervision | Operates under supervision | Independent practitioner; can provide supervision |
Requirements
To be considered for this position, you must be a U.S. citizen and meet the academic standards for an MFT degree from an accredited institution. Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in both written and spoken English. Additionally, all employees must adhere to VA health standards, including participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary range of $62,223 to $97,875 per year. Beyond the salary, VA employees enjoy a robust federal benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health insurance plans.
- Defined benefit retirement programs and a 401(k)-style Thrift Savings Plan.
- Generous paid annual leave, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development.
How to Apply
Applying to the VA is a structured process. You must create an account on USAJOBS, complete the required occupational questionnaire, and upload your clinical resume. Use the specific clinical resume template provided by the VA to ensure your application meets formatting requirements.
Serving those who served is more than just a job; it is a calling. If you are a compassionate, licensed clinician looking to make a lasting difference in the lives of our Veterans, we encourage you to apply for this Marriage and Family Therapist role in Des Moines today.
Why This Marriage And Family Therapist Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served by joining the VA as a Marriage and Family Therapist in Des Moines.
Marriage And Family Therapist Job Overview
The VA Central Iowa Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) to provide critical substance use disorder (SUD) treatment services. Working within a multi-campus healthcare environment, you will deliver evidence-based therapy to Veterans and their families, ensuring high-quality, whole-health care. This role involves both independent clinical practice and collaborative teamwork to address the unique behavioral health needs of our Veteran population.
Requirements for Marriage And Family Therapist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Master's or doctoral degree in Marriage and Family Therapy (or a comparable mental health field)
- Current, full, and unrestricted MFT license (independent practice level required for GS-11)
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Background and security clearance investigation
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959
Preferred Qualifications for Marriage And Family Therapist
- Experience in clinical substance use disorder treatment
- Proficiency in family systems theory and evidence-based interventions
- Ability to provide clinical supervision or training to students and pre-licensure staff
- Strong documentation skills using clinical electronic systems
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary and annual leave accrual
- ✓Comprehensive health and retirement benefits
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities
- ✓Opportunities for interdisciplinary teamwork in a Whole Health System model
- ✓Supportive work-life balance initiatives
💡 How to Apply Marriage And Family Therapist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Marriage And Family Therapist Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Download and complete the required Clinical Resume Document from the VA careers site.
- Prepare your long-form resume, transcripts, and relevant professional licenses.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire via the provided link.
- Submit your full application package before the closing date of September 14, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly details your clinical experience, including volunteer work, as assumptions are not made during the review.
- Double-check that you have uploaded both the standardized one-page clinical document and your full-length CV in the appropriate fields.
- Submit your application well in advance of the deadline to avoid technical issues.
- Clearly highlight your experience with substance use disorders if applicable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I am not yet fully licensed?
Yes, individuals who are not yet licensed at the independent level may be eligible for the GS-9 entry-level grade, provided they meet educational requirements and are actively working toward licensure.
What is the expected work schedule?
The standard schedule is 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, with a requirement to work one evening shift per week (10:00 AM to 6:30 PM) to accommodate patient needs.
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an on-site clinical position at the VA Central Iowa Health Care System.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. The VA Central Iowa Health Care System provides comprehensive services, ranging from primary care to specialized behavioral health and domiciliary support. We operate on a 'Whole Health' model, which empowers Veterans to take charge of their well-being through personalized care plans that consider their unique experiences, strengths, and goals.