Providing Excellence in Veteran Care: Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (LPMHC)
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class healthcare to the men and women who have served our nation. We are currently looking for a passionate, dedicated Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (LPMHC) to join the Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program at the Erie West VA Outpatient Clinic in Syracuse, New York. If you are an experienced counselor looking to make a profound difference, we invite you to explore this vital opportunity.
Job Responsibilities
As an LPMHC, you will operate within a multidisciplinary team to deliver care that is strength-based and recovery-focused. Your primary responsibilities include:
- Comprehensive Assessment: Conducting psychosocial evaluations to understand the unique needs of each Veteran.
- Treatment Planning: Developing individualized, goal-oriented treatment plans utilizing evidence-based practices.
- Crisis Management: Providing timely interventions and stabilization for Veterans in psychological distress.
- Collaboration: Partnering with other healthcare providers to ensure a seamless continuum of care.
- Documentation: Maintaining accurate clinical records using our electronic health record system.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following federal requirements:
- A master's or doctoral degree from a CACREP-accredited program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling or a related field.
- A valid, current, and unrestricted license to independently practice.
- US Citizenship.
- Proficiency in both written and spoken English.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range commensurate with experience and the federal GS-pay scale.
| Position Level | Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Entry Level (GS-9) | $61,722 - $97,087 |
| Full Performance (GS-11) | $61,722 - $97,087 |
Benefits
Working for the VA provides more than just a salary; it provides security and work-life balance:
- Paid Time Off: 37 to 50 days annually, including federal holidays.
- Healthcare: Comprehensive federal insurance options.
- Retirement: Federal pension and 401(k) retirement savings.
- Parental Support: 12 weeks of paid parental leave.
Application Tips
- Be Specific: Describe your experiences in detail. Do not rely on recruiters to assume your skills.
- Check Documentation: Ensure your license and transcript are clearly uploaded.
- Deadlines: Submit your application well before the December 31, 2026 closing date.
Serving our Veterans is a calling that requires the highest level of professional dedication. If you meet the criteria and are ready to grow your career while helping those who served, we encourage you to apply through the official USAJOBS portal today.
Why This Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (Lpmhc) Job Matters
Join a dedicated team at the Erie West VA Outpatient Clinic and provide essential, trauma-informed mental health care to our nation's Veterans.
Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (Lpmhc) Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a skilled Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (LPMHC) to serve at the Erie West VA Outpatient Clinic in Syracuse, New York. In this role, you will work within a multidisciplinary team to deliver high-quality, recovery-oriented mental health services. You will provide psychotherapy, conduct psychosocial assessments, and facilitate crisis interventions, helping Veterans build resilience and navigate their journey to long-term recovery.
Requirements for Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (Lpmhc)
- United States 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 license to independently practice mental health counseling.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical examination.
- Completion of a background/security investigation.
- Must be registered with the Selective Service (if male and born after 12/31/1959).
Preferred Qualifications for Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (Lpmhc)
- Experience in Evidence-Based Psychotherapy practices such as CBT and CPT.
- Demonstrated ability to perform crisis intervention and stabilization.
- Strong skills in multidisciplinary team collaboration.
- Experience with electronic health record documentation.
- Knowledge of Veteran-specific benefits and specialized programs.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Paid Time Off (37-50 days per year, including annual and sick leave plus 11 federal holidays).
- ✓Federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance programs.
- ✓Federal pension plan and 401k with up to 5% employer matching.
- ✓Paid parental leave after one year of service.
- ✓Childcare subsidies for eligible employees.
- ✓Regular salary increases.
💡 How to Apply Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (Lpmhc) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (Lpmhc) Job
- Create or log into your account on the USAJOBS platform.
- Prepare your long-form resume or curriculum vitae.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Gather and upload all required documents (transcripts, licenses, veteran preference forms).
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume is detailed, clearly reflecting your paid and volunteer experience.
- Double-check that your license information is current and easily visible.
- Do not leave any required fields in the questionnaire blank.
- Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
- Carefully review the 'Required Documents' list to avoid automatic disqualification.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of an LPMHC at the VA?
You will be responsible for providing recovery-oriented, trauma-informed outpatient mental health care to Veterans, which includes assessment, treatment planning, and crisis management.
Can I apply if my license is not yet at the independent level?
The GS-9 level is an entry point for those currently working toward licensure; however, full performance requires independent practice licensure.
Is relocation assistance offered?
*A: No, this position does not offer relocation incentives or PCS assistance.*
Will I work in a virtual environment?
*A: This is an onsite position, though you may utilize telehealth tools for patient care.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) serves as the healthcare arm of the Department of Veterans Affairs. Our mission is rooted in the promise to care for those who have borne the battle and for their families and survivors. By joining our team, you become part of a network of professionals dedicated to trauma-informed, holistic, and compassionate care.