Advance Your Career as a Senior Mental Health Counselor with the VA
Are you a dedicated mental health professional looking to make a meaningful impact? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently recruiting for a Senior Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (LPMHC) to serve at our facility in Waterloo, Iowa. This role offers the chance to work within a highly respected healthcare system while providing essential care to America’s veterans.
Job Responsibilities
As a Senior LPMHC, you will work primarily within our Outpatient Substance Use Disorder Program. Your daily duties will include:
- Providing specialized evidence-based psychotherapy for co-occurring disorders.
- Serving as a subject matter expert for clinical staff.
- Mentoring and supervising trainees and unlicensed staff.
- Monitoring clinical data to drive program improvements.
- Collaborating with inter-professional teams to develop individualized care plans.
Salary and Qualifications
This position offers a competitive salary range of $89,508 to $116,362 per year, commensurate with experience. To qualify, you must hold a master’s or doctoral degree from a CACREP-accredited program and maintain an unrestricted, independent clinical license.
Requirements Comparison
| Feature | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | U.S. Citizen |
| Education | Masters/Doctorate (CACREP) |
| Experience | 5+ Years Post-Licensure |
| License | Current & Unrestricted |
Benefits
One of the most attractive aspects of this position is the eligibility for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP). Qualified candidates may receive up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement. Additionally, the VA provides industry-leading benefits, including comprehensive health coverage and retirement pension options.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should prepare a thorough long-form resume and ensure all relevant transcripts and licenses are available. You must apply through the official USAJOBS platform and complete the full occupational questionnaire to be considered.
Serving our veterans is a noble calling. By joining the VA in Waterloo, you will gain access to exceptional professional resources and a supportive environment committed to clinical excellence. Apply today to help us honor those who served.
Why This Senior Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor- Outpatient Substance Use Disorder Program Job Matters
Advance your clinical career at the Iowa City VA Health Care System and provide life-changing mental health support for our nation's veterans.
Senior Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor- Outpatient Substance Use Disorder Program Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Senior Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (LPMHC) to join our Outpatient Substance Use Disorder Program in Waterloo, Iowa. This role is ideal for an experienced clinician ready to provide specialized care for co-occurring substance use and PTSD, while mentoring staff and contributing to program development in a 5-Star CMS-rated facility.
Requirements for Senior Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor- Outpatient Substance Use Disorder Program
- U.S. Citizenship
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Master's or doctoral degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling or a related field from a CACREP-accredited program
- Current, full, and unrestricted license to independently practice as an LPMHC
- Minimum of one year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level
- Five years of post-licensed clinical experience
- Ability to obtain and maintain clinical privileges and security suitability clearance
Preferred Qualifications for Senior Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor- Outpatient Substance Use Disorder Program
- Advanced mastery of theories and modalities for complex mental illness treatment
- Proven experience in clinical supervision of trainees or unlicensed staff
- Expertise in data-driven behavioral health program development
- Strong communication skills for inter-professional team collaboration
- Specific expertise in co-occurring substance use and PTSD disorders
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000)
- ✓Comprehensive Federal health insurance and retirement plans
- ✓Paid annual and sick leave
- ✓Professional development and research opportunities
- ✓Stable work-life balance
💡 How to Apply Senior Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor- Outpatient Substance Use Disorder Program Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Senior Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor- Outpatient Substance Use Disorder Program Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account
- Prepare a long-form resume and supporting documents (transcripts, licenses)
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire
- Upload all required documentation, including KSA responses
- Submit your application package before the closing date
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly highlights five years of post-licensed experience.
- Address each Knowledge, Skill, and Ability (KSA) explicitly in your documentation.
- Review all educational documents to ensure they meet federal accreditation standards.
- Double-check your eligibility for the EDRP program if you have outstanding student debt.
- Ensure all contact information is current in your USAJOBS profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Education Debt Reduction Program available for this role?
Yes, this position is eligible for the EDRP, which offers student loan reimbursement up to $200,000, subject to VHA policy and application approval.
Can I work remotely?
No, this is an onsite position located in Waterloo, Iowa, and is not eligible for virtual or remote work arrangements.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Iowa City VA Health Care System is a premier healthcare provider, serving over 50,000 veterans across Iowa, Illinois, and Missouri. Recognized as a 5-Star CMS-rated facility, the VA is dedicated to providing compassionate, whole-health care. By joining our team, you become part of an environment that values innovation, research, and professional development.