A Career in Service: Become a Psychologist at the South Texas Veterans Health Care System

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking a highly skilled and compassionate Psychologist to join the Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (BHIP) at the Kerrville VA Hospital. This role is a unique opportunity to provide evidence-based care to those who have bravely served our country, all while working in a supportive, professional, and innovative clinical environment.

Job Responsibilities

As a staff psychologist, your primary role is to deliver high-quality diagnostic and therapeutic services. Key responsibilities include:

Clinical Assessment: Conducting thorough diagnostic interviews and psychological testing for mental health and comorbid medical disorders.
Treatment Planning: Developing and implementing effective, evidence-based treatment strategies tailored to individual patient needs.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Working alongside psychiatrists, social workers, and primary care providers to coordinate whole-person health.
Telehealth: Utilizing modern technology to expand access to mental health services for Veterans in rural or remote areas.

Requirements

To be eligible for this position, applicants must meet strict federal qualifications:

Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
Education: A doctoral degree in psychology (Clinical, Counseling, or Clinical Science) from an accredited program.
Internship: Completion of an APA or CPA accredited professional internship.
Licensure: A current, full, and unrestricted state license to practice independently.

Feature	Details
Position Grade	GS-11 to GS-13
Salary Range	$94,397 - $174,906
Location	Kerrville, Texas
Work Schedule	Monday-Friday (Day Shift)
Loan Repayment	EDRP Authorized

Salary Overview & Benefits

Compensation is commensurate with experience and the grade level of the appointment (GS-11 through GS-13). In addition to a competitive salary, the VA offers an exceptional benefits package, including:

EDRP: Potential for up to $200,000 in student loan debt reduction.
Retirement: Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) benefits.
Health: Excellent government-subsidized health and life insurance options.
Flexibility: Paid federal holidays and generous annual/sick leave accrual.

Application Tips

Be Detailed: Ensure your resume highlights your specific experience with evidence-based psychotherapies.
Document Everything: Include copies of your transcripts and your current state license as soon as you apply.
Check Dates: The application window is time-sensitive; ensure submission occurs before the system closes at midnight.

Serving as a Psychologist with the VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to excellence and a tribute to our Veterans. With competitive pay, robust support systems, and the ability to truly transform patient lives, this role is the perfect step for an established clinician looking to grow their career in a mission-driven environment.

Why This Psychologist (Bhip) - Recruitment/ Relocation Incentive/ Edrp Authorized Job Matters

Advance your career while serving those who served. Join the South Texas Veterans Health Care System as a Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (BHIP) Psychologist and benefit from student loan repayment and a mission-driven environment.

Psychologist (Bhip) - Recruitment/ Relocation Incentive/ Edrp Authorized Job Overview

The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Psychologist to join the South Texas Veterans Health Care System in Kerrville, Texas. As part of a mission-focused team, you will provide comprehensive diagnostic, evaluation, and treatment services within the Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (BHIP). This role offers the opportunity to practice in a collaborative medical environment while making a lasting impact on the lives of our nation's Veterans.

Requirements for Psychologist (Bhip) - Recruitment/ Relocation Incentive/ Edrp Authorized

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Hold a doctoral degree in psychology from an APA or CPA accredited program.
Possess a full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level.
Complete a professional psychology internship accredited by the APA or CPA.
Proficiency in both written and spoken English.
Successfully pass a background/security investigation and pre-employment drug screening.
Participate in the mandatory seasonal influenza vaccination program.

Preferred Qualifications for Psychologist (Bhip) - Recruitment/ Relocation Incentive/ Edrp Authorized

Completion of an APA-accredited postdoctoral fellowship.
Experience working within interdisciplinary teams in a large medical center.
Professional experience with diverse populations and Veterans.
Advanced training in evidence-based psychotherapies.
Documented history of administrative or clinical process improvement initiatives.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility up to $200,000.
✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and life insurance plans.
✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
✓Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
✓Paid federal holidays.
✓Professional development and continuing education opportunities.
✓Relocation or recruitment incentives may be authorized for qualified candidates.

💡 How to Apply Psychologist (Bhip) - Recruitment/ Relocation Incentive/ Edrp Authorized Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Psychologist (Bhip) - Recruitment/ Relocation Incentive/ Edrp Authorized Job

Create or log into your account at the USAJOBS portal.
Review the full vacancy announcement and prepare your CV or long-form resume.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Upload required documentation, including doctoral transcripts and current state licensure.
Submit your complete application package before the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Be specific and detailed regarding your clinical experience, including volunteer work or internships.
Ensure your resume clearly maps your experience to the KSA requirements listed for the specific grade level (GS-11, 12, or 13).
Verify that all uploaded transcripts are official and clearly show your degree conferral date.
If you are a Veteran, ensure you upload your DD-214 and any relevant disability documentation to claim preference.
Check your application status regularly through your dashboard to track updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP)?

The EDRP is a student loan reimbursement program for VA employees. Qualified individuals may receive up to $200,000 in loan repayment over 1 to 5 years, depending on eligibility and VHA policy.

Can I apply if I am not yet licensed?

Non-licensed applicants who meet all other education and internship requirements may be considered for a temporary 'graduate psychologist' appointment for up to two years while pursuing licensure.

Is this a remote position?

No, this is not a virtual position, though ad-hoc telework may be available based on clinical needs and supervisor approval.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The South Texas Veterans Health Care System (STVHCS) is one of the largest and most comprehensive medical systems in the United States. Serving 35 counties in Texas, the STVHCS operates two major campuses—including the Kerrville VA Hospital—to provide primary, secondary, and tertiary care. Our clinicians are at the heart of our mission: to honor President Lincoln's promise to care for those who have borne the battle, their families, and their survivors.