Transforming Lives: Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor Opportunities with the VA
Are you a dedicated mental health professional looking for a career that aligns your clinical expertise with a noble mission? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (LPMHC) to join the Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System in Pensacola, Florida. This is a unique opportunity to provide comprehensive behavioral health services to those who have bravely served our country.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will act as a cornerstone of mental health care, ensuring Veterans receive the support they need for a variety of conditions, including substance abuse and psychiatric disorders. Key duties include:
- Performing biopsychosocial assessments and mental health evaluations.
- Developing and monitoring individualized, recovery-oriented treatment plans.
- Facilitating individual, group, and family psychotherapy.
- Providing critical crisis intervention and stabilization services.
- Coordinating care within an interdisciplinary team, including nursing, social work, and primary care.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, candidates must meet specific federal standards:
- Education: A master’s or doctorate from a CACREP-accredited program in a field such as Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
- Licensure: You must hold a full, current, and unrestricted license to practice independently.
- Language: Demonstrated proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Salary and Grade Overview
This position offers a competitive compensation package structured within the federal General Schedule (GS) pay scale.
| Level | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|
| GS-9/11 | $61,722 - $97,087 |
Benefits
Working for the VA provides access to the robust federal benefits package, which includes:
- Healthcare: Comprehensive medical and insurance plans.
- Leave: Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
- Retirement: Federal pension and Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style) options.
- Professional Growth: Continuous training and development in emerging evidence-based practices.
Application Tips
- Be Detailed: Ensure your resume highlights specific duties and dates to allow for accurate verification.
- Documentation: Always attach your transcripts and, if applicable, your most recent SF-50.
- Check Eligibility: Confirm your credentials align with the GS-9/11 requirements before applying.
Serving as an LPMHC for the VA in Pensacola is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the well-being of Veterans. If you possess the clinical skills and the heart to serve, we encourage you to apply and become part of this vital mission.
Why This Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served our nation by joining the Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System as a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor in Pensacola.
Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (LPMHC) to provide critical mental health and substance abuse services to Veterans in the Pensacola area. As part of a level 1c complexity healthcare system, you will play a vital role in our interdisciplinary team, delivering evidence-based care to improve the psychological health and well-being of our honored Veterans.
Requirements for Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor
- U.S. Citizenship (unless specific exceptions apply).
- Master’s or doctoral degree in a CACREP-accredited counseling program.
- Full, current, and unrestricted license to independently practice clinical mental health counseling.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Successful completion of a background and security investigation.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination.
- Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor
- Two or more years of experience in outpatient mental health or primary care mental health integration.
- Demonstrated expertise in individual, group, couples, and family therapy.
- Proven ability to assess patient needs and develop comprehensive, recovery-oriented treatment plans.
- Experience in crisis intervention and stabilization.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs
- ✓Generous paid annual and sick leave accrual
- ✓Federal retirement benefits and savings plans
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Supportive and inclusive work environment
💡 How to Apply Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your long-form resume, transcripts, and relevant professional licensure documents.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application and all required supporting documents before the closing date.
- Monitor your email for status updates and confirmation.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes specific dates (month/year) and average hours worked per week for each role.
- Upload a copy of your transcripts to verify educational requirements.
- If you are a current or former federal employee, include your most recent non-award SF-50.
- Double-check that all required fields are complete before submitting to avoid disqualification.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the education requirement for this position?
You must hold a master's or doctoral degree in an area such as Clinical Mental Health Counseling from a program accredited by CACREP.
Is this position remote?
No, this is an in-person, clinic-based position located in Pensacola, Florida, though it may offer some telework flexibility depending on office policy.
What is the grade level range?
This position is being filled at the GS-9 to GS-11 level, with a full performance level of GS-11.
What is the primary location for this job?
This role is based at the Joint Ambulatory Care Center in Pensacola, Florida.
Does the VA provide relocation incentives for this role?
No, relocation or recruitment incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. The Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System specifically serves Veterans across Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida. By joining this team, you become part of an accredited, complex medical system dedicated to 'caring for those who have served' through compassionate, whole-health clinical support.