Transforming Lives: Career Opportunities for Mental Health Counselors at the VA

If you are a mental health professional dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care, a career with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers a unique intersection of clinical excellence and profound service. The VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System is currently seeking a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (LPMHC) to join the Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (BHIP) in Parma, Ohio. This role is not just a job; it is an opportunity to directly impact the lives of those who have served our nation.

Job Responsibilities

As a BHIP Associate, you will serve as a key provider in the outpatient mental health clinic. Your daily contributions will include:

Care Coordination: Providing case management and facilitating continuity of care.
Psychotherapeutic Interventions: Delivering evidence-based treatments tailored to individual Veteran needs.
Clinical Assessment: Conducting thorough biopsychosocial assessments, including high-risk evaluations for suicide and homicide.
Crisis Intervention: Working within a multidisciplinary team to stabilize patients in psychological distress.
Documentation: Maintaining timely and accurate electronic health records to ensure seamless communication within the care team.

Requirements

To ensure our Veterans receive the highest quality of care, candidates must meet strict professional standards:

Education: A master’s or doctoral degree in a counseling-related field from a CACREP-accredited program.
Licensure: You must hold or be eligible to obtain a full, current, and unrestricted license to practice independently.
Language Proficiency: Candidates must demonstrate excellent spoken and written English skills.
General: U.S. citizenship and the ability to pass background checks and physical examinations are mandatory.

Grade Level Comparison

Feature	GS-9 (Entry)	GS-11 (Full Performance)
Experience Level	Less than 1 year post-degree	1+ year post-degree
Licensure	Working toward independence	Fully licensed for independent practice
Responsibility	Supervised intake & assessment	Advanced consultation & crisis care

Salary Overview

Positions are available in the GS-9 to GS-11 range, with an annual salary potential of $64,448 to $101,375 depending on experience and qualifications.

Benefits

Beyond a competitive salary, the VA offers:

EDRP Participation: Potential student loan repayment up to $200,000.
Work-Life Balance: Generous leave accrual and 3+ days of telework per pay period.
Security: Federal government health and retirement benefits.

Application Tips

Highlight Experience: Be explicit about your clinical internships and professional work.
Documentation: Ensure all transcripts and licenses are easily accessible.
Veteran Preference: If you are a veteran, provide your DD214 to ensure you receive the priority consideration you deserve.

Becoming a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor at the VA is a commitment to excellence. If you are ready to join a team that values your skills and honors our Veterans, we encourage you to start your application today.

Why This Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor - (Bhip) Associate Job Matters

Empower those who served by delivering life-changing mental health support as a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor with the VA.

Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor - (Bhip) Associate Job Overview

Join the VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System as a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (LPMHC) and become a vital member of the Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (BHIP). In this role, you will provide compassionate, recovery-oriented care to Veterans, helping them navigate complex mental health challenges through evidence-based interventions. Whether you are an entry-level counselor or a seasoned professional, you will work in an interdisciplinary environment dedicated to treating the 'whole Veteran' through advanced, personalized care planning.

Requirements for Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor - (Bhip) Associate

U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply for non-citizens when qualified citizens are unavailable).
Master's or doctoral degree in a mental health counseling field from a CACREP-accredited program.
Must hold or be eligible to obtain a full, current, and unrestricted license to practice independently.
Proficiency in spoken and written English.
Ability to pass a pre-employment physical and background investigation.
Valid state-issued driver's license for duties requiring travel.
Completion of mandatory seasonal influenza vaccination requirements.

Preferred Qualifications for Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor - (Bhip) Associate

Experience in crisis intervention and stabilization.
Mastery of the DSM-5 for diagnosis and treatment planning.
Experience in facilitating group psychotherapy and psycho-education.
Proficiency in Telehealth delivery systems and electronic health records.
Demonstrated ability to work within multidisciplinary clinical teams.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility up to $200,000.
✓Federal health insurance plans and retirement benefits.
✓Accrual of annual and sick leave.
✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
✓Flexible work arrangements including regular telework opportunities.
✓Stable career growth within the Department of Veterans Affairs.

💡 How to Apply Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor - (Bhip) Associate Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor - (Bhip) Associate Job

Review your qualifications against the GS-9 and GS-11 grade requirements.
Create or update your USAJOBS account profile.
Prepare your resume, including specific dates of employment.
Gather supporting documentation, such as transcripts, professional licenses, and DD214 (if applicable).
Complete the online questionnaire via the provided link.
Submit your full application package before the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Be specific in your resume—do not leave room for assumptions regarding your clinical experience.
Ensure your professional license is clearly noted with its current status.
Double-check that all required documents are attached before hitting submit.
If you are a veteran, include your DD214 to secure your hiring preference.
Apply well before the deadline to account for any technical issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this position eligible for loan repayment?

Yes, this role is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which offers student loan reimbursement up to $200,000 for qualified candidates.

What is the work location and schedule?

The position is located in Parma, Ohio, with a standard schedule of Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. It also offers regular telework opportunities.

Can I apply if I am not yet independently licensed?

Yes, the GS-9 entry level allows for candidates who have completed the necessary education but are still working toward their independent licensure.

Is relocation assistance offered?

*A: No, relocation/recruitment incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.*

Do I need a driver's license?

*A: Yes, the role requires operation of a Government-owned or leased vehicle for certain duties.*

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 nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." As an employee within the VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System, you will be part of a vast network providing comprehensive care to over 124,000 Veterans. With a mission focused on 'whole health,' the VA fosters an environment where clinical innovation and patient-centered healing are prioritized.