Embark on a Rewarding Clinical Career: Mental Health Counselor at the VA
Are you a dedicated mental health professional looking to make a meaningful impact? The Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System is seeking a compassionate Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (LPMHC) to join our team in Pensacola, Florida. This role offers the unique opportunity to provide high-quality, recovery-oriented care to the men and women who have served in our nation's military.
About the Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System
The Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System is a premier healthcare provider dedicated to honoring our Veterans. Operating across Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida, we provide comprehensive services ranging from primary care to specialized mental health treatment. Our Pensacola location is a vital center for outpatient care, focusing on holistic health, suicide prevention, and evidence-based psychological interventions.
Job Responsibilities
As an LPMHC, your daily work will be both challenging and deeply fulfilling. You will:
- Conduct comprehensive biopsychosocial assessments and mental health evaluations.
- Develop and monitor individualized, Veteran-centered treatment plans.
- Provide a range of therapeutic interventions, including individual, group, and family counseling.
- Deliver essential crisis intervention and stabilization services to Veterans in acute distress.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to ensure integrated, patient-centered care.
- Maintain accurate clinical documentation within electronic health record systems.
Qualifications
To ensure our Veterans receive the best possible care, candidates must meet rigorous standards:
| Requirement Type | Detail |
|---|---|
| Education | Master's/Doctoral degree from a CACREP-accredited program |
| Licensure | Full, current, unrestricted independent license |
| Citizenship | U.S. Citizen |
| Experience | Post-graduate clinical experience preferred |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $74,678 to $97,087 annually, commensurate with experience and grade level. Working for the VA also means joining a federal system that values work-life balance and provides access to a comprehensive suite of federal benefits, including leave accrual and professional development support.
Application Tips
- Be Detailed: When writing your resume, clearly articulate your experience with specific therapeutic modalities.
- Upload Everything: Ensure your transcripts, license verification, and resume are uploaded correctly before the deadline.
- Check Status: Use your USAJOBS account to track your application status after submission.
If you are a licensed counselor ready to apply your clinical skills to serve those who have given so much, this role at the Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System is an exceptional opportunity. We encourage all qualified applicants to review the full details and submit their application through the official federal portal today.
Why This Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor Job Matters
Join a dedicated team at the Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System and make a profound difference in the lives of those who have served our country. Your expertise in mental health counseling can provide the compassionate, recovery-oriented care our Veterans deserve.
Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a skilled Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (LPMHC) to serve at our Joint Ambulatory Care Center in Pensacola, Florida. This role offers the chance to work within an interdisciplinary team, providing vital outpatient behavioral health services to Veterans navigating psychiatric, substance use, and psychosocial challenges. As a key member of our clinical staff, you will play a crucial role in suicide prevention, crisis intervention, and the implementation of evidence-based therapeutic practices.
Requirements for Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor
- U.S. Citizenship
- Master's or doctoral degree in clinical mental health counseling or a closely related field from a CACREP-accredited program
- Full, current, and unrestricted independent license to practice as a mental health counselor
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Successful completion of a pre-employment physical and background investigation
- Compliance with annual influenza vaccination requirements
Preferred Qualifications for Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor
- 2+ years of professional experience in outpatient mental health or primary care mental health integration
- Advanced mastery of individual, group, couples, and family therapy modalities
- Experience with evidence-based psychotherapy and crisis stabilization
- Demonstrated ability to function effectively within an interdisciplinary clinical team
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary and benefits package
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth and clinical supervision
- ✓Work-life balance with a standard Monday-Friday schedule
- ✓Contribution to the mission-driven care of America's Veterans
- ✓Eligibility for federal leave accrual based on prior service
💡 How to Apply Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account profile
- Gather your required documents, including your CV, license, and educational transcripts
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire
- Submit your full application package before the closing date on November 10, 2026
- Monitor your email for status updates and potential interview requests
💡 General Tips
- Be specific and thorough when describing your clinical experience to ensure accurate qualification assessments
- Ensure your transcript is attached if your eligibility relies on specific educational credentials
- Review your application for completeness; omissions or missing documents can disqualify you from consideration
- Highlight any experience with evidence-based practices that aligns with the GS-11 performance standards
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I am not a U.S. citizen?
Generally, you must be a U.S. citizen. Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA policy.
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, this position is eligible for telework, though it is not a fully remote or virtual role. Local proximity to the facility is required.
What is the full performance level of this job?
The full performance level for this position is GS-11.
What is the primary work environment?
You will work in a professional clinic/office setting at our Pensacola facility.
Is there a trial period?
Yes, successful candidates will complete a 1 or 2-year trial period to evaluate fitness and performance.