Empowering Veterans: Careers in Mental Health Counseling at the Fargo VA
Are you a dedicated mental health professional looking to combine your clinical expertise with a mission-driven career? The Fargo VA Health Care System is inviting qualified candidates to join their team as a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (LPMHC). Working with the Department of Veterans Affairs offers a unique opportunity to serve those who have served, utilizing cutting-edge, whole-health approaches to care.
Job Responsibilities
As an LPMHC, you will operate within a Whole Health System model. Your primary focus will be on the patient’s overall well-being, moving beyond simple symptom management to create personalized health plans. Your duties will include:
- Clinical Care: Delivering comprehensive, evidence-based therapeutic interventions via in-person or telehealth services.
- Assessment: Conducting intake, diagnosis, and treatment planning.
- Crisis Management: Providing timely screening and crisis intervention services.
- Collaboration: Serving on interdisciplinary teams to ensure a continuum of care.
- Supervision: Providing training and oversight to interns and less experienced colleagues.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, you must meet several federal eligibility requirements:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Education: A master’s or doctoral degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (or related field) from a CACREP-accredited program.
- Licensure: You must hold a full, current, and unrestricted license to practice independently. (Exceptions may apply for entry-level GS-9 candidates).
- English Proficiency: Must be fluent in both written and spoken English.
Salary Overview & Grade Levels
The position offers a competitive salary range, determined by your experience and grade level.
| Grade Level | Experience Requirement |
|---|---|
| GS-9 | Entry Level / Less than 1 year experience |
| GS-11 | Full Performance / 1+ year post-master's experience |
Current annual salary range: $61,722 – $97,087
Benefits
Working with the VA provides a robust benefits package that includes:
- Excellent health insurance choices.
- Federal retirement options.
- Accrual of annual and sick leave.
- Professional growth opportunities.
- The fulfillment of serving a noble mission.
Application Tips
- Focus on KSAs: The hiring committee values detailed descriptions of your skills. Write specific examples for each Knowledge, Skill, and Ability mentioned in the announcement.
- Documentation: Do not forget to attach your transcripts and professional license. Missing these documents is a common reason for disqualification.
- Use the USAJOBS Tool: Leverage the built-in resume builder if you are new to the federal application process.
A career with the Fargo VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to excellence and empathy. By joining this high-performing team, you play a vital role in the health and prosperity of our nation's heroes. If you possess the clinical skill and the passion for service, we encourage you to apply today.
Why This Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor Job Matters
Join a 5-star rated team in Fargo dedicated to transforming lives through compassionate, whole-health mental health care for our nation's Veterans.
Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor Job Overview
The Fargo VA Health Care System is currently seeking a dedicated Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (LPMHC) to provide expert clinical care. As part of a top-tier medical network, you will utilize evidence-based practices to support Veterans through their personal health journeys, working within a collaborative, interdisciplinary team environment that values innovation and patient-centered outcomes.
Requirements for Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor
- United States Citizenship.
- Master's or doctoral degree in a relevant clinical mental health counseling field from a CACREP-accredited program.
- Current, full, and unrestricted license to independently practice clinical mental health counseling.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Completion of a pre-employment physical evaluation.
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Preferred Qualifications for Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor
- Experience providing clinical supervision to trainees or unlicensed staff.
- Advanced expertise in evidence-based psychotherapy interventions.
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex crisis situations and stabilization.
- Proficiency in Telehealth service delivery platforms.
- Experience in interdisciplinary team collaboration and program development.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs
- ✓Federal retirement benefits including FERS
- ✓Generous annual leave and sick leave accrual
- ✓Paid federal holidays
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Supportive, mission-focused workplace culture
💡 How to Apply Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor Job
- Create or update your account on the official USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare a comprehensive, long-form resume or CV highlighting relevant clinical experience.
- Gather your academic transcripts and professional licensure documentation.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire within the application portal.
- Submit your application package along with supporting documents (e.g., DD-214 for veterans, SF-50 if applicable) before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Tailor your resume to directly address the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) listed in the job announcement.
- Be specific about your clinical experience; do not assume the hiring panel knows your daily duties.
- Ensure all educational documents and licenses are clearly legible and uploaded as part of your package.
- Apply early to avoid technical issues as the closing deadline approaches.
- Double-check that you have included all required documentation to avoid automatic disqualification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, the position offers ad-hoc telework opportunities, though it is not a fully remote or virtual position.
What is the education requirement for this role?
You must hold a master's or doctoral degree in a clinical mental health counseling field from a CACREP-accredited program.
Can I apply if I am not yet licensed?
The GS-9 entry level allows for applicants who are graduates working toward their licensure prerequisites; however, full performance levels (GS-11) require an active independent license.
What is the closing date for this application?
The announcement is open until December 28, 2026.
Do I need a specific type of counseling degree?
Yes, your degree must come from a program accredited by CACREP.
Can I work from home?
The position is not fully virtual, but it does offer ad-hoc telework eligibility based on department needs.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Fargo VA Health Care System is a premier institution, holding a 5-star CMS rating and recognized for patient experience and cleanliness among Level 2 Hospitals. Serving over 36,000 Veterans across North Dakota, Minnesota, and South Dakota, the facility integrates primary care, specialty clinics, and a 5-star Community Living Center. It is a hub for innovation, often partnering with medical schools to foster the next generation of healthcare leaders.