Advance Your Career as a Staff Psychologist with the VA in Hampton
Are you a dedicated psychologist looking to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our nation's Veterans? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking a passionate, skilled Staff Psychologist for the Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (BHIP) in Hampton, Virginia. This role offers a unique opportunity to provide evidence-based care within a supportive, multi-disciplinary environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Staff Psychologist within the BHIP, you will serve as a core member of a clinical team that includes psychiatrists, social workers, nurses, and other mental health professionals. Your primary duties will include:
- Providing comprehensive psycho-diagnostic assessments.
- Delivering individual and group psychotherapy tailored to the needs of the Veteran population.
- Managing crisis intervention services.
- Serving as a consultant for clinical staff and trainees.
- Participating in institutional committees and clinical research initiatives.
Qualifications
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Education: A doctoral degree in psychology (Clinical, Counseling) from an APA, CPA, or PCSAS accredited program.
- Licensure: Hold a current, full, and unrestricted license to practice psychology.
- Internship: Completion of a professional psychology internship program.
Grade Comparison
| Grade Level | Experience Requirement |
|---|---|
| GS-11 | Entry level (Basic requirements met) |
| GS-12 | Minimum 1 year experience at GS-11 level |
| GS-13 | Minimum 2 years experience (1 year at GS-12 level) |
Salary Overview
The salary range for this position is competitive, currently set at $90,289 to $167,294 per year, depending on experience, qualifications, and the specific step determination upon hiring.
Benefits
Working for the federal government provides a robust suite of benefits:
- Student Loan Assistance: Eligibility for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), providing up to $200,000 for qualifying loans.
- Work-Life Balance: Generous leave package including 13-26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays.
- Insurance: Extensive choices in Federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance plans.
- Retirement: Traditional pension plan (FERS) and federal 401k-style TSP.
Application Tips
- Be Detailed: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your clinical hours and specific experience with psychometrics and therapy modalities.
- Organize Documents: Keep your transcripts, license, and any relevant SF-50s accessible for upload.
- Check Dates: All applications must be submitted by the closing date of November 13, 2026.
If you are ready to use your clinical skills to support the mental health and well-being of Veterans, we encourage you to apply. This position is a gateway to a rewarding career in the federal service, offering long-term stability and the chance to contribute to a vital healthcare mission.
Why This Staff Psychologist (Bhip) Job Matters
Transform lives and honor those who served by joining the VA as a Staff Psychologist in Hampton, VA.
Staff Psychologist (Bhip) Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking a dedicated Staff Psychologist to join the Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (BHIP) in Hampton, Virginia. In this role, you will work within a collaborative, multi-disciplinary team to provide comprehensive mental health services, including diagnostics, individual and group therapy, and crisis intervention for our nation's Veterans.
Requirements for Staff Psychologist (Bhip)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Doctoral degree in psychology from an APA, PCSAS, or CPA accredited program
- Full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level
- Successful completion of an accredited professional psychology internship
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Subject to background investigation and drug screening
- Participation in the annual influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Staff Psychologist (Bhip)
- Experience in psychodiagnostic assessment and evidence-based psychotherapy
- Ability to work effectively in a multi-disciplinary clinical team
- Experience with crisis intervention and group therapy modalities
- Demonstrated ability to implement clinical research or evidence-based practice procedures
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility up to $200,000
- ✓37-50 days of paid time off per year (annual, sick, and federal holidays)
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- ✓Federal pension plan and 401k-style savings plan with matching
- ✓Paid parental leave
- ✓Childcare subsidy for eligible families
💡 How to Apply Staff Psychologist (Bhip) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Staff Psychologist (Bhip) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a comprehensive CV or long-form resume.
- Complete the mandatory online questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation, including licenses, transcripts, and any applicable SF-50 forms.
- Submit your application package by the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume is detailed; avoid leaving gaps that might require recruiter assumptions.
- Highlight specific clinical experience that aligns with the BHIP settings mentioned in the duties.
- Double-check that your license is current and uploaded in the required format.
- Start early to ensure all documentation is submitted before the 11:59 PM ET deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is relocation assistance offered for this role?
No, recruitment or relocation incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.
Can I apply if I am not yet licensed?
You may be eligible for a temporary appointment as a graduate psychologist under specific conditions, provided you are working toward licensure under a licensed supervisor.
What is the EDRP?
The Education Debt Reduction Program is a student loan reimbursement program for eligible VA employees, offering up to $200,000 in assistance.
Is telework available for this position?
*A: No, this position is onsite-only and is not eligible for telework.*
What is the trial period?
*A: New hires may be required to serve a 1 to 2-year trial period to evaluate performance and conduct.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. Our mission is to honor and serve those who have served in our military. Joining the VA means becoming part of a team dedicated to "whole health," where clinical excellence and compassionate service are the foundation of everything we do.