Advance Your Career: Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor with the VA
Are you a dedicated mental health professional looking to make a profound difference? The South Texas Veterans Health Care System (STVHCS) is currently seeking a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (LPMHC) to serve those who have protected our nation. This role offers not only a stable federal career but also the unique opportunity to participate in the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP).
Job Responsibilities
Working within the Domiciliary Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Program (DRRTP), you will provide a full spectrum of psychological services. Key responsibilities include:
- Conducting clinical intake, assessments, and diagnosis for complex patients.
- Developing and implementing individualized treatment plans for Veterans with mental health and substance use disorders.
- Facilitating evidence-based individual and group psychotherapy.
- Participating in interdisciplinary team meetings to ensure coordinated, high-quality care.
- Maintaining accurate clinical documentation using VA software systems.
- Providing crisis intervention to stabilize patients in psychological distress.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, candidates must meet specific federal standards:
- Education: A Master’s or doctoral degree in a relevant counseling field from a CACREP-accredited program.
- Licensure: A current, unrestricted license to practice independently.
- Proficiency: Excellent written and spoken communication skills.
- Citizenship: U.S. citizenship is required.
Grade Level Comparison
| Feature | GS-09 (Entry Level) | GS-11 (Full Performance) |
|---|---|---|
| Required Experience | Basic clinical competency | 1+ year post-master's experience |
| Complexity | Guided clinical practice | Independent judgment and consultation |
| Supervisory Role | N/A | Subject matter consultation for trainees |
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a salary range of $68,039 to $107,023 per year, depending on qualifications and grade level. Beyond the base salary, employees enjoy federal benefits, including:
- EDRP Eligibility: Potential for up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement.
- Comprehensive Health Coverage: Access to excellent health and insurance plans.
- Leave Accrual: Competitive annual leave and sick leave programs, with potential for credit based on prior experience.
Application Tips
Applying for a federal position requires precision. Ensure your resume highlights your experience with specific diagnoses, risk assessments, and the use of the DSM-5. Always verify that your transcripts are attached, and if you are relying on a foreign degree, provide the necessary equivalency certification.
Joining the South Texas Veterans Health Care System means more than just having a job; it means serving those who have sacrificed for our freedom. If you are a licensed professional ready to provide compassionate care in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment, we encourage you to submit your application by October 9, 2026.
Why This Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor-Edrp Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served our nation by joining the South Texas Veterans Health Care System as a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor, with access to up to $200,000 in student loan repayment via the EDRP program.
Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor-Edrp Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking dedicated mental health professionals to join the Domiciliary Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Program (DRRTP) in San Antonio, Texas. This role focuses on providing compassionate, comprehensive, and evidence-based mental health services to Veterans, including those with substance use and co-occurring disorders. As part of an interdisciplinary team, you will play a critical role in clinical assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, and crisis intervention.
Requirements for Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor-Edrp
- U.S. Citizenship (Non-citizens may only be appointed if qualified U.S. citizens are unavailable).
- Master's or doctoral degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling, or a closely related field from a CACREP-accredited program.
- Full, current, and unrestricted license to independently practice as a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Selective Service registration for males born after December 31, 1959.
- Ability to pass a background and security investigation.
- Compliance with seasonal influenza vaccination requirements.
Preferred Qualifications for Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor-Edrp
- Experience in an interdisciplinary mental health setting or clinic serving adults.
- Demonstrated ability to perform comprehensive intake evaluations and risk assessments.
- Proficiency in diverse psychotherapeutic interventions, including individual and group modalities.
- Strong technical skills in medical record documentation and use of the DSM-5.
- Experience in complex crisis intervention and managing high-risk populations.
- Proven ability to collaborate effectively on interdisciplinary clinical teams.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000 for qualifying loans).
- âś“Competitive federal salary and benefits package.
- âś“Opportunities for annual leave accrual based on prior experience.
- âś“Participation in a professional, multidisciplinary health care environment.
- âś“Access to ongoing clinical training and professional development.
- âś“Supportive work-life balance initiatives.
đź’ˇ How to Apply Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor-Edrp Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor-Edrp Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your long-form resume or curriculum vitae (CV) detailing relevant experience.
- Gather supporting documentation, including transcripts and, if applicable, licensure, DD-214, or SF-50 forms.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire via the application portal.
- Submit your comprehensive application package before the closing date of October 9, 2026.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Be explicit in your resume regarding your experience; the hiring team cannot make assumptions about your background.
- Clearly link your past experience to the knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) listed in the announcement.
- Ensure your CACREP accreditation documentation is included if your school is not currently listed in their directory.
- Double-check that all required documents are attached before submission, as missing files may lead to disqualification.
- Take advantage of the ability to track your application status within your USAJOBS dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the EDRP program mentioned in the job title?
The Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) is a VA initiative that provides student loan reimbursement of up to $200,000 to eligible health care professionals. Application for this program must be made within four months of your appointment.
Can I apply if I am currently pending my counseling license?
Yes, applicants pending licensure may be considered for the GS-09 grade level and placed on a temporary appointment for up to three years while completing requirements.
Is this position eligible for telework?
The position is not remote; however, ad-hoc telework may be determined by agency needs.
What is the work schedule like?
The positions operate on set schedules, typically Monday-Friday or Sunday-Thursday, 8:00am to 4:30pm.
Is Veterans' Preference applicable?
Veterans' preference is not applicable for internal or permanent federal employee applicants but is considered for other candidates.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in the military. As one of the largest health care systems in the nation, the STVHCS operates two major campuses—the Audie L. Murphy Memorial VA Hospital and the Kerrville VA Hospital. We serve over 114,000 Veterans across 35 counties, providing comprehensive care ranging from primary medicine to specialized psychiatric and rehabilitation services.