Advance Your Career as a Staff Psychologist with the VA in Peoria
Are you a dedicated clinical psychologist seeking a role that offers both professional growth and the opportunity to serve those who have served our country? The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is currently seeking a Staff Psychologist to join the Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (BHIP) in Peoria, Illinois. This position is perfect for professionals committed to evidence-based care and interdisciplinary teamwork.
Job Responsibilities
As a Staff Psychologist in the BHIP, your primary goal is to provide comprehensive outpatient mental health services. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Therapeutic Interventions: Conducting individual, group, and family therapy using best practices and evidence-based protocols.
- Psychological Assessment: Performing assessments to clarify patient needs and inform treatment planning.
- Multidisciplinary Coordination: Collaborating with medical staff and making appropriate referrals to specialized programs like the PTSD Clinic, Substance Abuse Rehabilitation, or Vocational Rehabilitation.
- Quality Assurance: Participating in peer reviews and implementing process improvement initiatives to optimize service delivery.
- Documentation: Maintaining accurate and timely clinical records in accordance with facility policies.
Requirements
To qualify for this role, you must meet the following baseline standards:
- Education: A doctoral degree in psychology from an APA, PCSAS, or CPA accredited program.
- Internship: Completion of a professional psychology internship accredited by the APA or CPA.
- Licensure: An unrestricted, current license to practice at the doctoral level in a U.S. state or territory.
- Citizenship: Must be a United States Citizen.
- Compliance: Ability to pass a pre-employment physical and adhere to VHA health and safety mandates, including seasonal influenza vaccinations.
Salary and Grade Overview
This position is open at the GS-11 through GS-13 levels. The salary range for this role is $98,799 to $183,063 per year, depending on experience, qualifications, and the specific step assigned upon hiring. The VHA offers competitive pay and regular increases based on performance and tenure.
Grade Level Comparison
| Grade Level | Requirements | Key Focus |
|---|---|---|
| GS-11 | Basic Qualifications | Entry-level clinical work under appropriate supervision. |
| GS-12 | 1 year experience at GS-11 level | Independent practice with moderate supervision. |
| GS-13 | 2 years experience (1 at GS-12) | Independent practice and consultation. |
Benefits
The VA provides a comprehensive federal benefits package designed to support your long-term success and work-life balance:
- Leave: Generous annual leave, sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays.
- Insurance: Federal health, dental, vision, and long-term care plans.
- Retirement: Federal pension and 401K (TSP) matching up to 5%.
- Support: Paid parental leave and child care subsidies for qualifying families.
Application Tips
- Tailor Your Resume: Explicitly highlight how your clinical experience aligns with the KSAs (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities) listed in the job posting.
- Documentation is Key: Ensure you upload your official transcripts and licensure documentation immediately. Missing documents will result in an incomplete application.
- Use the Questionnaire: The online assessment is a critical component of your application. Take your time to answer honestly and thoroughly.
Joining the VHA in Peoria is an excellent step for any psychologist looking to make a meaningful impact. With a supportive environment, excellent benefits, and a focus on evidence-based care, you will be empowered to provide the high-quality services our veterans deserve. Apply today to begin the next chapter of your clinical career.
Why This Staff Psychologist - Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program - Bhip Job Matters
Join a dedicated team in Peoria and make a tangible difference in the lives of our nation's heroes by providing expert psychological care within the VA's Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program.
Staff Psychologist - Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program - Bhip Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a skilled Staff Psychologist for its Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (BHIP) in Peoria, Illinois. This role focuses on delivering high-quality mental health services, including assessment, intervention, and comprehensive care planning for veterans navigating adjustment, cognitive, emotional, and behavioral challenges. As a member of an interdisciplinary team, you will utilize evidence-based treatments to improve veteran outcomes and promote holistic health.
Requirements for Staff Psychologist - Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program - Bhip
- U.S. Citizenship
- Doctoral degree in psychology (clinical, counseling, or equivalent) from an APA, PCSAS, or CPA accredited program
- Completion of an APA or CPA accredited professional psychology internship
- 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
- Successful passing of a pre-employment physical evaluation
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Staff Psychologist - Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program - Bhip
- Demonstrated experience in applying a wide range of psychological assessment and treatment methods
- Ability to design and implement effective clinical treatment strategies for diverse patient populations
- Experience in contributing to clinical research or quality assurance process improvements
- Board certification by the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP)
- Ability to provide professional consultation in behavioral health settings
Federal Benefits & Perks
- β37-50 days of paid time off annually (vacation, sick leave, and 11 Federal holidays)
- βFederal health, vision, dental, and life insurance plans
- βTraditional federal pension program
- βFederal 401K (TSP) with up to 5% agency matching
- β12 weeks of paid parental leave after one year of service
- βChild care subsidy for eligible employees
- βCompetitive recruitment/relocation incentives for qualified candidates
π‘ How to Apply Staff Psychologist - Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program - Bhip Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Staff Psychologist - Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program - Bhip Job
- Log in to or create your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full job announcement and required documentation list.
- Prepare your long-form resume or curriculum vitae (CV).
- Gather necessary supporting documents, such as academic transcripts and professional licenses.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your full application package before the closing date of November 30, 2026.
- Monitor your email for status updates and potential interview invitations.
π‘ General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifically addresses the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) outlined in the announcement.
- Be clear and specific; do not assume the hiring manager understands your previous duties without detailed descriptions.
- Include both paid and relevant volunteer experience to build your competency profile.
- Double-check that your license information and academic transcripts are current and attached.
- Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I am not yet licensed?
Yes, non-licensed applicants may be eligible for a temporary 'graduate psychologist' appointment for up to two years, provided they work under the direct supervision of a licensed psychologist.
Is relocation assistance available?
Recruitment or relocation incentives may be authorized for highly qualified candidates, subject to agency approval.
What is the expected schedule?
This position operates on a standard 8:00 am to 4:30 pm schedule, Monday through Friday.
Is this a remote position?
*A: No, this position is onsite at the VA facility in Peoria, Illinois.*
Can I apply if I have a pending license?
*A: Yes, the VA allows for temporary 'graduate psychologist' appointments for non-licensed applicants, provided specific conditions are met and active supervision is in place.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincolnβs promise to care for those who have served in the military and their families. Working within the VHA means joining a mission-driven organization that values compassion, integrity, and clinical excellence. As a Staff Psychologist, you will be an essential part of a medical center environment that prioritizes the holistic well-being of our veterans.
