Empower Your Career: Senior Social Worker at the VA
Are you a dedicated social worker looking to make a profound impact? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is hiring a Senior Social Worker for the Primary Care Mental Health Integration (PC-MHI) program in Shreveport, Louisiana. This is an exceptional opportunity to serve those who have served our country while advancing your career within a top-tier healthcare system.
Job Responsibilities
As a Senior Social Worker, you will function as a key member of the interdisciplinary primary care team. Your primary duties will include:
- Clinical Assessment: Conducting rapid, functional assessments for Veterans with complex physical and psychological needs.
- Brief Interventions: Delivering high-quality, 30-minute therapeutic appointments.
- Consultation: Providing curbside consultations to Primary Care Providers to enhance treatment plans.
- Administration: Serving on medical center committees and participating in peer reviews.
- Teaching: Supervising psychology practicum students and providing staff training.
Comparison: Standard Social Work vs. VA PC-MHI
| Feature | Standard Social Work | VA PC-MHI Social Work |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | General Caseload | Integrated Primary Care |
| Intervention Length | Long-term | Brief/Targeted |
| Team Structure | Often Isolated | Fully Integrated PACT Team |
| Population | General Public | Veterans & Families |
Requirements
To be considered, candidates must meet strict professional criteria:
- Education: A Master’s degree from a CSWE-accredited school of social work.
- Licensure: You must hold a current, full, and unrestricted state license for independent clinical practice.
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Experience: At least two years of post-licensure experience.
Salary and Benefits
The salary for this GS-12 position ranges from $110,489 to $143,639 annually. Beyond the competitive pay, you will enjoy:
- EDRP: Potential for up to $200,000 in student loan repayment.
- Time Off: Ample annual leave, sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays.
- Pension & 401k: A secure federal retirement package.
- Insurance: Federal health, dental, and vision coverage.
This role offers more than just a paycheck; it offers a calling. By joining the Overton Brooks VA Medical Center, you are joining a mission-driven team dedicated to the highest standards of clinical excellence. If you meet the qualifications, we encourage you to apply today.
Why This Senior Social Worker- Primary Care Mental Health Integration Job Matters
Advance your clinical career at the Overton Brooks VA Medical Center, where your expertise in social work directly improves the lives of those who served our nation.
Senior Social Worker- Primary Care Mental Health Integration Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Senior Social Worker for the Primary Care Mental Health Integration (PC-MHI) program in Shreveport, Louisiana. This role is ideal for an experienced clinical professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is committed to providing whole-health, compassionate care to Veterans. You will play a vital role in interdisciplinary teams, conducting functional assessments and delivering brief, effective therapeutic interventions to support our nation’s heroes.
Requirements for Senior Social Worker- Primary Care Mental Health Integration
- U.S. Citizenship (unless specific recruitment exceptions apply).
- Master’s degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited institution.
- Current, unrestricted state license or certification for independent clinical practice.
- Minimum of two years post-licensure experience, with at least one year equivalent to the GS-11 level.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical examination.
- Compliance with seasonal influenza vaccination requirements.
Preferred Qualifications for Senior Social Worker- Primary Care Mental Health Integration
- Professional experience in a primary care or integrated medical setting.
- Expertise in brief therapeutic interventions and health psychology/behavioral medicine.
- Advanced training or certification from a nationally recognized professional organization.
- Proven experience in interdisciplinary team collaboration and clinical consultation.
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 paid federal holidays.
- ✓Federal pension plan and 401k with up to 5% agency matching.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance.
- ✓Paid parental leave after 12 months of service.
- ✓Childcare subsidy for eligible full-time employees.
💡 How to Apply Senior Social Worker- Primary Care Mental Health Integration Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Senior Social Worker- Primary Care Mental Health Integration Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement on the USAJobs portal.
- Create or update your USAJobs account and resume.
- Prepare required documents, including your long-form resume, transcripts, and proof of licensure.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application package before the deadline of November 5, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume lists specific duties, start/end dates (month/year), and average hours worked per week for every position.
- Do not assume the hiring panel knows your background; detail your experience clearly in relation to the required KSAs.
- Double-check that all professional certifications and current licenses are uploaded as part of your application package.
- Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical issues or missing documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote or virtual position?
No, this is an onsite position located at the Overton Brooks VA Medical Center in Shreveport, Louisiana.
What is the EDRP program mentioned?
The Education Debt Reduction Program is a student loan reimbursement program for qualified health professionals, offering up to $200,000 in assistance.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) provides comprehensive care to our nation’s Veterans. At the Overton Brooks VA Medical Center, we focus on 'whole health' care. Shreveport, located in the Ark-La-Tex region, offers a vibrant community, rich cultural history, and an excellent quality of life, making it a perfect place to settle down while pursuing professional excellence.