Advance Your Career as a Mental Health Counselor with the VA
Are you a dedicated mental health professional looking to make a meaningful difference? The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) in Carbondale, Illinois, is seeking a licensed, compassionate, and skilled individual to join our clinical staff as a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (OPMH). This is an opportunity to serve those who have served our country while working within an interdisciplinary environment that values whole-health care.
Job Responsibilities
As an OPMH Counselor, you will provide comprehensive clinical services. Key duties include:
- Psychosocial Assessment: Conducting thorough evaluations to determine diagnoses and treatment needs.
- Crisis Management: Providing rapid assessment and intervention for Veterans in psychological distress.
- Psychotherapy: Delivering individual, group, and family therapy using evidence-based practices.
- Care Coordination: Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to ensure seamless transitions in care.
- Clinical Documentation: Maintaining precise, timely records of all Veteran interactions.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must meet specific educational and professional standards, including:
- U.S. Citizenship status.
- A master’s or doctoral degree in a clinical counseling field from a CACREP-accredited program.
- A current, unrestricted state license for independent practice.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
Salary and Grade Comparison
The position is offered at the GS-9 to GS-11 levels. Below is a breakdown of the typical structure:
| Level | Experience/Licensure Requirement | Performance Expectations |
|---|---|---|
| GS-9 | Entry level; working toward independent license | Closely supervised; entry-level duties |
| GS-11 | Full performance; licensed for independent practice | Full autonomy; crisis intervention; supervision of trainees |
Benefits
The VA offers a robust benefits package, including:
- EDRP Eligibility: The Education Debt Reduction Program provides significant student loan assistance for eligible hires.
- Health and Retirement: Competitive federal health insurance plans and retirement options.
- Leave: Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
Application Tips
Ensure your application stands out by providing clear, detailed documentation of your clinical experience. Always double-check your transcripts and license documentation before submission. If you are a veteran, ensure your DD-214 is attached to receive proper preference.
If you are ready to elevate your career and provide world-class support to our Veterans, we encourage you to apply. The work is challenging, deeply rewarding, and essential to the well-being of those who have given so much.
Why This Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (Opmh) Job Matters
Join a dedicated team at the Department of Veterans Affairs and make a lasting impact by providing essential mental health support to our nation's heroes in Carbondale, Illinois.
Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (Opmh) Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a skilled Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (OPMH) to join our clinical team. In this role, you will provide critical psychotherapy, crisis intervention, and psychosocial support to Veterans. This position offers a competitive federal salary, comprehensive benefits, and eligibility for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), helping you manage your student loans while building a meaningful career in public service.
Requirements for Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (Opmh)
- U.S. Citizenship (Non-citizens may be hired only if no qualified citizens are available).
- Master’s or doctoral degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling or a closely related field from a CACREP-accredited program.
- Current, full, and unrestricted license to independently practice as a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Background and security investigation clearance.
- Compliance with annual seasonal influenza vaccination requirements for VHA Health Care Personnel.
Preferred Qualifications for Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (Opmh)
- At least 2 years of post-licensure experience in a mental health setting.
- Demonstrated competency in Evidence-Based Practices (EBP).
- Certification or specialized training in at least one evidence-based treatment intervention for mental health.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000 for student loans).
- âś“Competitive federal salary with annual increases.
- âś“Comprehensive health insurance and retirement plans.
- âś“Accrued paid vacation and sick leave.
- âś“Federal holiday leave.
- âś“Opportunities for professional development and training.
đź’ˇ How to Apply Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (Opmh) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (Opmh) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Attach your long-form resume, transcripts, and professional license.
- Upload additional documents if applicable (e.g., DD-214 for veterans, SF-50 for federal employees).
- Review your application for accuracy before the final submission deadline.
- Submit your application and monitor your email for status updates.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Be specific in your resume—do not leave room for assumptions regarding your clinical experience.
- Ensure your transcript clearly shows the accreditation status of your counseling program.
- Double-check that your professional license is active and clearly documented.
- If you have evidence-based practice training, highlight specific interventions in your resume.
- Ensure your contact information is up to date in the USAJOBS system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) available for this position?
Yes, this position is eligible for the EDRP, which provides loan reimbursement. Eligibility and award amounts are determined by the VHA program office after a formal application is submitted.
What is the typical work schedule?
The standard schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, though it may include occasional evenings, weekends, or on-call rotations to meet Veteran care needs.
Can I qualify if I am not yet licensed for independent practice?
Candidates at the GS-9 level who are working toward their licensure prerequisites may be considered, though the full performance level (GS-11) requires independent licensure.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Our mission is centered on the promise to care for those who have served in our nation’s military and their families. When you join our team in Carbondale, you are not just an employee; you are a vital partner in the healing and recovery process of our Veterans.