Advance Your Career as a Staff Psychologist with the VA in Fresno
Are you a dedicated mental health professional looking to make a profound impact on the lives of those who have served our country? The VA Central California Health Care System is currently accepting applications for a Staff Psychologist within the Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Clinical Team (PCT). This is a unique opportunity to join a mission-driven organization while advancing your clinical skills in a collaborative, supportive environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a member of the PCT/Trauma Recovery Outpatient Program, your responsibilities will include:
- Implementing evidence-based treatment and service coordination for PTSD.
- Conducting psychological assessments and diagnosing complex mental health conditions.
- Providing individual and group psychotherapy sessions.
- Consulting with interdisciplinary teams to ensure holistic patient care.
- Participating in quality improvement and program evaluation projects.
Requirements
To qualify for this role, you must meet several federal requirements, including:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Education: A doctoral degree in psychology from an APA, PCSAS, or CPA-accredited program.
- Internship: Completion of a professional psychology internship.
- Licensure: A current, full, and unrestricted license to practice at the doctoral level.
Grade Level Comparison
| Grade | Experience Requirement |
|---|---|
| GS-11 | Entry level (Meets basic education/licensure) |
| GS-12 | 1 year of professional experience equivalent to GS-11 |
| GS-13 | 2 years of professional experience (1 year equivalent to GS-12) |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $96,624 to $179,032 per year. Beyond the base salary, employees enjoy a robust federal benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, generous paid time off, and access to the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP).
Application Tips
To maximize your chances, ensure your resume is detailed. The VA hiring process relies on clear documentation of your past work, including volunteer and clinical internship hours. Don't leave room for ambiguity—clearly state your experience with evidence-based trauma therapies.
If you are a clinical psychologist passionate about helping Veterans recover from trauma, we invite you to join our team in Fresno. Apply today to help us provide world-class, compassionate care to our nation's heroes.
Why This Staff Psychologist - Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Clinical Team (Pct) Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served by providing expert, evidence-based trauma recovery care in the heart of California.
Staff Psychologist - Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Clinical Team (Pct) Job Overview
The VA Central California Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Staff Psychologist to join our Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Clinical Team (PCT). In this vital role, you will provide comprehensive mental health services, including psychological assessments, evidence-based psychotherapeutic interventions, and specialized support for Veterans navigating trauma. You will work within an interdisciplinary team, collaborating with peers to improve clinical outcomes and program effectiveness.
Requirements for Staff Psychologist - Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Clinical Team (Pct)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen
- Hold a doctoral degree in psychology from an APA, PCSAS, or CPA-accredited program
- Successful completion of an accredited professional psychology internship
- Current, full, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level in a U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical examination and background check
- Must maintain compliance with seasonal influenza vaccination requirements
Preferred Qualifications for Staff Psychologist - Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Clinical Team (Pct)
- Proven clinical experience in treating trauma-related mental health conditions
- Demonstrated ability to design and implement effective evidence-based treatment strategies
- Experience in interdisciplinary team environments
- Proficiency in both individual and group psychotherapeutic modalities
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility up to $200,000
- ✓13-26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave per year
- ✓11 paid Federal holidays annually
- ✓Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave
- ✓Federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance programs
- ✓Traditional federal pension and 401K-style retirement plan with 5% matching
- ✓Child care subsidy for eligible employees
💡 How to Apply Staff Psychologist - Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Clinical Team (Pct) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Staff Psychologist - Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Clinical Team (Pct) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your long-form resume or CV, transcripts, and relevant licenses.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all required supporting documents.
- Submit your application package before the deadline on December 11, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifically details your clinical experience with trauma patients.
- The initial cutoff date is October 26, 2026; submit by this date for priority consideration.
- Double-check that your license is current and documented clearly.
- Federal hiring processes do not assume skills; be explicit and descriptive in your work history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for student loan repayment?
Yes, this role is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which can provide up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursements.
What is the work location?
This is an on-site position located at the VA Central California Health Care System in Fresno, California.
Can I apply if I am not yet licensed?
While licensure is required, non-licensed applicants may be considered for a temporary graduate psychologist appointment, provided they obtain full licensure within two years.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs is committed to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in our military and their families. Our Fresno facility provides state-of-the-art care, ranging from acute medical and surgical services to specialized mental health recovery programs. By joining our team, you become part of a nationwide network of professionals dedicated to the "Whole Health" model of care.