Empowering Veterans: Careers as a Senior Marriage and Family Therapist with the VA
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing comprehensive, whole-health care to those who have served our nation. As a Senior Counselor (Marriage and Family Therapist), you are at the forefront of this mission, offering essential readjustment counseling to veterans and their families in Fairbanks, Alaska. This role is more than just a job; it is a commitment to healing and resilience.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will lead with clinical expertise. Key duties include:
- Direct Clinical Services: Conducting individual, couple, and family therapy using evidence-based systemic models.
- Crisis Intervention: Leading safety planning and complex risk assessments.
- Clinical Supervision: Providing systematic supervision to unlicensed staff working toward their independent licensure.
- Consultation & Outreach: Acting as a clinical consultant to outreach teams and collaborating with community partners to ensure seamless care coordination.
Requirements
- U.S. Citizenship: Required for all federal employment.
- Licensure: You must hold a full, current, and unrestricted license as an MFT.
- Education: Completion of a Master's or Doctoral degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from an accredited institution.
- Vaccination: Adherence to the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Salary and Comparison
This position offers a competitive salary based on experience and clinical expertise.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Position Level | GS-12 |
| Annual Salary | $101,206 - $131,571 |
| Location | Fairbanks, Alaska |
| Benefits | Full Federal Benefits + EDRP |
Benefits
Beyond the salary, the VA offers the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which provides significant student loan reimbursement for eligible professionals. Additionally, employees enjoy robust health insurance, retirement plans through the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), and generous paid time off.
Application Tips
- Customize Your Resume: Clearly document your experience in family systems theory and crisis intervention.
- Review Requirements: Ensure all transcripts and license documents are attached.
- Leverage the Questionnaire: Be as specific as possible when answering the assessment questionnaire to ensure your skills are accurately identified.
Serving those who have sacrificed so much is a calling. If you are a licensed MFT ready to provide expert clinical supervision and compassionate care in a unique environment, we encourage you to apply to this Fairbanks-based opportunity today.
Why This Senior Counselor - Marriage And Family Therapist (Advanced) Job Matters
Make a lasting impact on the lives of those who served. Join the Veterans Health Administration in Fairbanks as a Senior Counselor (MFT) and lead clinical excellence within a supportive, mission-driven environment.
Senior Counselor - Marriage And Family Therapist (Advanced) Job Overview
The Readjustment Counseling Service at the Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a highly skilled Senior Counselor—Marriage and Family Therapist (Advanced) to provide expert clinical care in Fairbanks, Alaska. This role is perfect for a licensed clinician who is passionate about family systems theory and providing evidence-based readjustment counseling. You will provide direct clinical services, perform crisis interventions, and serve as a mentor and supervisor for clinical trainees. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of veteran care while working in an environment that values professional development and systemic clinical expertise.
Requirements for Senior Counselor - Marriage And Family Therapist (Advanced)
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Full, current, and unrestricted MFT license to practice independently in a state.
- Master's or doctoral degree in Marriage and Family Therapy (or a comparable mental health field meeting VA standards).
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Must undergo a background/security investigation.
- Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program is mandatory for health care personnel.
Preferred Qualifications for Senior Counselor - Marriage And Family Therapist (Advanced)
- AAMFT Approved Supervisor designation.
- At least 5 years of post-licensed clinical experience in family systems therapy.
- Proven expertise in evidence-based family therapy models.
- Experience in providing clinical supervision to trainees or unlicensed staff.
- Strong background in crisis intervention and complex treatment planning.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000 for qualified loans).
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans.
- ✓Paid time off and federal holidays.
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth and leadership.
- ✓A mission-driven environment supporting veterans and their families.
💡 How to Apply Senior Counselor - Marriage And Family Therapist (Advanced) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Senior Counselor - Marriage And Family Therapist (Advanced) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Review the specific questionnaire provided in the vacancy announcement.
- Prepare your long-form resume, transcripts, and a copy of your current, unrestricted clinical license.
- Submit your complete application package, including all required documentation, before the deadline.
- Monitor your email for status updates following the close of the announcement.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your clinical hours and specific experience with family systems therapy.
- Clearly highlight your AAMFT supervisor credentials if applicable.
- Double-check that your license information is current and easily verifiable.
- Don't wait until the last day to submit; technical issues can happen.
- Read the 'Required Documents' section carefully to avoid disqualification due to missing paperwork.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Education Debt Reduction Program available for this role?
Yes, this position is eligible for the EDRP. You must apply within four months of your appointment date, and awards are determined by the VHA Education Loan Repayment Services program office.
What is the primary focus of this senior counselor position?
This role balances direct clinical care for veterans and their families with administrative and supervisory responsibilities, including clinical oversight, chart auditing, and training staff on systemic family therapy models.
Can I work remotely for this position?
No, this is not a virtual or remote position. You will be based at the facility in Fairbanks, Alaska.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Readjustment Counseling Service (RCS) is the primary arm of the VA that provides community-based, vet-to-vet counseling. Working in a Vet Center setting offers a unique, supportive atmosphere focused on the individual needs of veterans who are transitioning back to civilian life. The VA’s "I CARE" values—Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence—form the foundation of everything we do.