Embark on a Rewarding Career as a VA Psychologist

Are you a dedicated mental health professional looking to make a profound impact on the lives of those who have served our country? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is hiring passionate Psychologists to join the Readjustment Counseling Service (RCS).

Job Responsibilities

As a Psychologist, you will function as a vital member of a multidisciplinary team. Your core duties will include:

Intake and Assessment: Conducting thorough clinical screenings to identify needs and risk levels.
Treatment Planning: Developing individualized counseling goals that address trauma, stress, and psychosocial readjustment.
Direct Service: Providing individual, group, and family therapy.
Crisis Intervention: Proactively managing risk and maintaining safety plans for clients in crisis.

Requirements

To be eligible for this position, you must:

Hold a doctoral degree in a relevant psychology specialty from an APA/CPA-accredited program.
Have completed a supervised professional internship.
Possess a full, current, and unrestricted license to practice.
Be a U.S. Citizen.

Salary and Grade Comparison

Grade Level	Experience Requirement	Target Range
GS-11	Entry Level	$94,602+
GS-12	1+ Year Experience	Mid-Range
GS-13	2+ Years Experience	Up to $225,911

Benefits

Working for the VA offers more than just a job; it provides a comprehensive package of rewards including:

EDRP: Up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement.
Time Off: Ample annual and sick leave, plus 11 Federal holidays.
Insurance: Extensive Federal health and life insurance options.
Retirement: Dual-pathway retirement including pension and 401(k) matching.

Application Tips

Ensure your resume is detailed. Do not assume hiring managers know the scope of your previous roles. Explicitly state your experience with different treatment modalities and populations.

Join us at the VA and help us honor the service and sacrifice of our Veterans. Apply today via the official government portal to start your journey.

Why This Psychologist Job Matters

Make a lasting impact on those who served. Join the Readjustment Counseling Service and help Veterans, active-duty personnel, and their families navigate the path toward whole health and recovery.

Psychologist Job Overview

The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking dedicated Psychologists to serve within the Readjustment Counseling Service (RCS). This role is centered on providing high-quality therapeutic care, clinical assessment, and community outreach. Successful candidates will support individuals dealing with combat stress, military sexual trauma, and the challenges of military-to-civilian life. This is an exceptional opportunity to work in a multidisciplinary environment where your clinical expertise directly improves the quality of life for America's heroes and their families.

Requirements for Psychologist

U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply per VA policy).
Doctoral degree in psychology from an APA or CPA accredited program.
Completion of a professional psychology internship accredited by APA or CPA (or approved equivalents).
Full, current, and unrestricted state licensure to practice at the doctoral level.
Proficiency in written and spoken English.
Must pass a pre-employment physical examination.
Willingness to undergo a background investigation.
Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.

Preferred Qualifications for Psychologist

Experience in crisis intervention and risk assessment.
Demonstrated ability to develop and implement individualized treatment plans.
Knowledge of clinical research literature and the ability to contribute to research projects.
Board certification by the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP).
Experience working with military populations or veterans.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive salary with periodic increases.
✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000).
✓Generous paid time off: 13-26 days annual leave plus 13 days sick leave.
✓11 paid Federal holidays per year.
✓Federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance programs.
✓Federal 401K-style retirement plan with up to 5% agency matching.
✓Paid parental leave for eligible employees.
✓Child care subsidy programs for those who qualify.

💡 How to Apply Psychologist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Psychologist Job

Prepare a comprehensive long-form resume or CV.
Gather your academic transcripts and proof of licensure/certification.
Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Complete the mandatory occupational questionnaire.
Upload all required supporting documents (SF-50, DD-214, etc., if applicable).
Submit your application package before the deadline on November 9, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Be specific in your resume—detail your clinical experience in years and months.
Ensure your transcript is official and shows your degree specialty clearly.
Double-check your licensure status; if you are pending a license, ensure you understand the temporary 'graduate psychologist' appointment criteria.
Review your application status frequently through your USAJOBS account dashboard.

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.

Can I apply if I am not yet licensed?

Under specific conditions, non-licensed applicants may be appointed as 'graduate psychologists' for up to two years while under the supervision of a licensed psychologist.

What is the work schedule?

Standard hours are typically 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday, though this can vary by facility.

Is relocation assistance provided?

*A: No, this position does not offer relocation incentives.*

Can I telework?

*A: Currently, this is not a virtual or telework-eligible position.*

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Readjustment Counseling Service is a unique arm of the Veterans Health Administration. We provide specialized counseling and outreach to combat Veterans, their families, and those who have experienced military sexual trauma. Our mission is to ease the transition from military to civilian life through compassionate, evidence-based care.