Embark on a Fulfilling Career as a Staff Psychologist with the VA
Are you a dedicated psychologist looking to leverage your clinical expertise to make a profound impact? The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) in Richmond, Virginia, is currently seeking a highly skilled Staff Psychologist to join their clinical team. This role offers the opportunity to work in a high-impact environment, serving those who have served our country.
Job Responsibilities
As a Staff Psychologist, your day-to-day will be dynamic and multi-faceted. Key duties include:
- Clinical Care: Providing comprehensive diagnostic and psychotherapeutic services.
- Treatment Planning: Implementing evidence-based interventions for mental health and adjunctive support for medical conditions.
- Mentorship: Providing clinical supervision to interns and residents.
- Collaboration: Serving as a consultant to multidisciplinary medical teams to ensure holistic patient care.
- Quality Improvement: Utilizing data to monitor program outcomes and participating in committee work to drive organizational excellence.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must meet rigorous federal standards:
- Education: A doctoral degree in psychology from an accredited program.
- Internship: Completion of an APA or CPA accredited professional psychology internship.
- Licensure: You must hold a full, current, and unrestricted license to practice.
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Professionalism: Demonstrated ability in clinical research, assessment, and treatment strategies.
Salary and Benefits Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Position Level | GS-13 |
| Salary Range | $139,615 – $181,502 |
| Location | Richmond, VA |
| Schedule | M-F, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM |
Why Work with the VA?
Beyond the competitive salary, the VA offers an environment where professional growth is prioritized. You will have access to national committee opportunities, research potential, and the fulfillment that comes from patient-centered care. Employees may also receive service credit for prior work experience, impacting leave accrual rates.
Application Tips
- Be Detailed: Ensure your resume clearly states your duties and achievements. Do not assume the reviewer understands your current scope.
- Check Deadlines: Submit your application by November 9, 2026.
- Prepare Documents: Have your transcripts and license verification ready before you begin the online application.
Join the Richmond VA team and help us set the benchmark for excellence in Veteran healthcare. Apply today to start a career where your clinical skill meets true purpose.
Why This Staff Psychologist Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on those who served. Join the Veterans Health Administration in Richmond as a Staff Psychologist and champion evidence-based care for our nation's heroes.
Staff Psychologist Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated, mission-driven Staff Psychologist to join our team in Richmond, Virginia. In this full-time role, you will deliver high-quality, patient-centered psychological care. You will be responsible for diagnosing mental health conditions, executing evidence-based psychotherapeutic interventions, and serving as a key member of a multidisciplinary team dedicated to improving the health and well-being of our Veterans.
Requirements for Staff Psychologist
- U.S. Citizenship (Non-citizens may only be appointed if qualified citizens are unavailable).
- Doctoral degree in psychology from an APA, PCSAS, or CPA accredited program.
- Successful completion of a professional psychology internship accredited by APA or CPA.
- Full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level in a U.S. state, territory, or district.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical and drug screening.
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Completion of a background/security investigation.
Preferred Qualifications for Staff Psychologist
- Experience in Systems Redesign.
- Background in Organizational Development.
- Prior Program Management experience.
- Direct experience working within the VA healthcare system.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Comprehensive federal benefits package
- âś“Competitive salary range based on experience
- âś“Opportunities for professional development and clinical leadership
- âś“Collaborative and multidisciplinary working environment
- âś“Ability to earn service credit for annual leave accrual
- âś“Supportive work-life balance
đź’ˇ How to Apply Staff Psychologist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Staff Psychologist Job
- Create or log into your account on the official federal jobs portal.
- Prepare your long-form resume or CV, ensuring it highlights your clinical experience.
- Gather necessary documentation, including academic transcripts, licensure records, and any applicable DD-214 or SF-50 forms.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application package by the closing date of November 9, 2026.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Be specific and thorough in your resume; do not leave the hiring team to make assumptions about your experience.
- Ensure your transcript is submitted if your qualifications depend on your education.
- Check your application status regularly through your online profile dashboard.
- Verify that your licensure status is clearly documented.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I am not yet licensed?
Non-licensed applicants may be considered for a temporary 'graduate psychologist' appointment for up to two years, provided they meet all other eligibility criteria. Continued employment depends on obtaining full licensure within that timeframe.
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, this position is eligible for ad-hoc telework, though it is not a virtual position and requires on-site presence in Richmond.
Can I apply if I am still finishing my internship?
Yes, you may be tentatively selected if you are nearing the end of your requirements, but you must complete all education and licensure requirements before you can be hired.
Is there a trial period?
Yes, all new hires serve a one or two-year trial period to ensure fitness for the role and alignment with public interest.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class healthcare to America’s Veterans. The VHA is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States, providing care at over 1,200 facilities. The core values of the VA—Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence (I CARE)—guide every action and treatment decision made by our professionals.