Advancing Veteran Wellness: Staff Psychologist Roles in Primary Care Integration
The North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System is looking for dedicated and passionate psychologists to join our clinical team. As a Staff Psychologist focused on Primary Care Mental Health Integration (PCMHI), you will bridge the gap between mental health and physical wellness, serving as a critical resource for Veterans navigating the primary care landscape.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will not work in isolation. You will be an active, collaborative partner within the Patient Aligned Care Team (PACT). Your duties include:
- Providing 30-minute, brief behavioral health interventions.
- Conducting warm handoffs with Primary Care Providers.
- Educating Veterans and staff on behavioral health best practices.
- Participating in daily huddles and case consultations.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must meet the following criteria:
- Education: Doctorate in Psychology from an APA/CPA/PCSAS accredited program.
- Internship: Completion of a sanctioned, professional psychology internship.
- Licensure: You must hold a full, current, and unrestricted license in a U.S. State or Territory.
- Proficiency: Must be fluent in English.
Grade Level Comparison
| Grade Level | Requirements | Key Focus |
|---|---|---|
| GS-11 | Basic requirements met | Entry-level professional integration |
| GS-12 | 1 year at GS-11 level | Independent practice with moderate supervision |
| GS-13 | 2 years professional experience | Full consultation authority & leadership |
Salary and Benefits
Psychologists in this role are well-compensated, with salary ranges between $86,953 and $161,112 annually, depending on experience and grade. Beyond the paycheck, we offer:
- EDRP: Student loan assistance up to $200,000.
- Work-Life Balance: Generous vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- Retirement: Access to the federal pension system and Thrift Savings Plan.
Application Tips
When applying, use our "long-form" resume format to ensure every detail of your clinical practice is visible. Since we cannot make assumptions, clearly delineate your experience with evidence-based interventions and interdisciplinary teamwork. Ensure all licensure documents are current and easy to locate within your file.
If you are ready to apply your clinical skills where they are needed most, we invite you to join the North Florida/South Georgia VA. By integrating mental health into primary care, you will directly influence the quality of life for those who have sacrificed for our nation.
Why This Staff Psychologist- Primary Care Mental Health Integration (Pcmhi) Job Matters
Join the VA in pioneering a new era of behavioral health by integrating clinical expertise directly into primary care settings for our nation's Veterans.
Staff Psychologist- Primary Care Mental Health Integration (Pcmhi) Job Overview
The North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System is seeking compassionate Staff Psychologists to serve as Collocated Collaborative Care (CCC) behavioral health consultants. In this vital role, you will work within Patient Aligned Care Teams (PACT) to provide timely, evidence-based, and brief psychological interventions. You will be a key player in the early identification and management of behavioral health concerns, ensuring Veterans receive holistic care where it is most accessible.
Requirements for Staff Psychologist- Primary Care Mental Health Integration (Pcmhi)
- U.S. Citizenship (unless recruitment of citizens is not possible).
- Doctoral degree in psychology from an APA, PCSAS, or CPA accredited program.
- Completion of a professional psychology internship accredited by the APA or CPA.
- Full, current, and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level in a U.S. State, Territory, or D.C.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical and drug screening.
- Completion of a successful background and security investigation.
- Registration with Selective Service (for males born after 12/31/1959).
Preferred Qualifications for Staff Psychologist- Primary Care Mental Health Integration (Pcmhi)
- Experience in primary care mental health integration or fast-paced clinical settings.
- Strong consultation and communication skills for working within interdisciplinary teams.
- Demonstrated ability to deliver brief, 30-minute evidence-based behavioral interventions.
- Proven proficiency in treating mild to moderate behavioral health concerns.
- Clinical research experience or expertise in implementing new clinical procedures.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000 for qualifying student loans).
- ✓Comprehensive Federal Health Insurance plans.
- ✓Generous paid annual leave and sick time accrual.
- ✓Federal retirement pension and Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent).
- ✓Flexible work schedules.
- ✓Relocation and recruitment incentives for highly qualified candidates.
💡 How to Apply Staff Psychologist- Primary Care Mental Health Integration (Pcmhi) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Staff Psychologist- Primary Care Mental Health Integration (Pcmhi) Job
- Create or update your profile on the official USAJOBS platform.
- Prepare a long-form resume or CV, ensuring specific details about your clinical experience.
- Gather supporting documentation, including transcripts, licensure, and SF-50 forms if applicable.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire via the application link.
- Submit your full application package before the closing date.
- Monitor your email for status updates and confirmation.
💡 General Tips
- Be explicit and detailed in your resume; the hiring board cannot make assumptions about your experience.
- Ensure your license status is clearly documented and active.
- Highlight your experience with brief interventions or work in medical settings.
- Review your application for completeness before hitting submit to avoid omission errors.
- Check your email regularly for communication from the VA regarding your application status.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of a PCMHI psychologist?
You will function as a behavioral health consultant within primary care teams, providing quick, focused interventions to help Veterans manage mild to moderate mental health concerns without needing a separate mental health clinic visit.
Is the Education Debt Reduction Program available for this role?
Yes, this position is eligible for EDRP. You must apply within four months of your appointment to be considered for loan reimbursement.
Can I work remotely?
This is not a virtual position. While some ad-hoc telework may be available, the role requires in-person collaboration within the medical center and primary care clinics.
What is the benefit of the PCMHI model?
It allows for same-day access and removes the stigma of visiting a specialized mental health clinic by integrating care into the standard primary care appointment.
Is relocation assistance offered?
Yes, for highly qualified candidates, relocation incentives may be available.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to fulfilling the promise of caring for those who have served in our nation's military. Our North Florida/South Georgia system covers a vast region, providing everything from primary to tertiary care. We pride ourselves on a "whole health" approach, ensuring that our Veterans receive the comprehensive support they deserve.