Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (Primary Care Mental Health Integration) - EDRP
SummaryThis position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), a student loan payment reimbursement program.
You must meet specific individual eligibility requirements in accordance with VHA policy and submit your EDRP application within four months of appointment.
Approval, award amount (up to $200,000) and eligibility period (one to five years) are determined by the VHA Education Loan Repayment Services program office after complete review of the EDRP application.
Learn more about this agencyHelpOverview Accepting applications Open & closing dates10/05/2023 to 12/29/2023 Salary$57,118 - $89,835 per year Pay scale & gradeGS 9 - 11 HelpLocation3 vacancies in the following location:
El Paso, TX Remote jobNo Telework eligibleYes-as determined by the agency policy.
Ad-hoc Travel RequiredNot required Relocation expenses reimbursedNo Appointment typePermanent - Work scheduleFull-time - ServiceExcepted Promotion potential11 Job family (Series)0183 Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor Supervisory statusNo Security clearanceOther Drug testNo Position sensitivity and riskNon-sensitive (NS)/Low Risk Trust determination processCredentialingSuitability/Fitness Announcement numberCAZM-12151177-24-EMG Control number753226000HelpThis job is open to The publicU.
S.
Citizens, Nationals or those who owe allegiance to the U.
S.
Clarification from the agencyThis vacancy announcement is an external (open to the public) job announcement.
Current permanent VA employees are encouraged to apply under the internal announcement to receive consideration based on their current employment status.
This is a mental health position open to multiple disciplines.
Please see How You Will Be Evaluated section for details on all occupations being considered for this recruitment effort.
Help This job is also open in another announcement to:
Federal employees - Competitive service Federal employees - Excepted service Internal to an agencyHelp This job is also open in another announcement to:
Federal employees - Competitive service Federal employees - Excepted service Internal to an agencyVideosHelpDutiesThis vacancy will remain open until filled.
The first cut-off cate is 10/12/2023.
Additional applicants will be referred as needed.
(NOTE:
Applications expire after 90 days.
Please update application thru USAJobs if you wish to be reconsidered.
)This position is located in Behavior Health Services.
The General Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (LPMHC) provides Behavior Health and Telemental Health Services to the Veteran population.
Telemedicine, also known as telehealth, uses electronic communications and information technology to provide and support healthcare when distance separates the service provider and the service recipient.
Telemedicine uses various communication methods to connect clinicians and patients in lieu of their meeting in person.
The term Telemental health services typically refers to behavioral health services that are provided using communication technology.
The term Telemental health describes the overall situation in which a clinician uses various technologies to deliver Behavior health care to a patient who is miles away.
Incumbent conducts behavior health assessments and treatment plans, provides consultation to the Behavior Health Service Providers to assess eligibility and appropriate level of care for Veterans in need of services.
Incumbent provides direct therapy to individuals, families, couples, and group.
Incumbent will work closely with other Behavior Health Service programs to ensure a seamless transition to appropriate services for Veterans.
Incumbent provides crisis intervention as needed for Veterans in Behavior Health in the outpatient setting.
Duties include, but are not limited to:
Clinical Uses a high level of skill in assessing and treating behavioral health concerns.
Incumbent will provide psychotherapy with individuals, couples, and families, crisis intervention supportive counseling, and referral for resources and benefits.
Has a high level of skill and expertise to establish and maintain effective therapeutic relationships with Veterans and/or their families.
Independently complete intake assessments to determine the psychosocial functioning and needs of Veterans and/or their families.
Actively participate as a member of an interdisciplinary treatment team and actively participate through collaboration with Veterans and family as well as interdisciplinary treatment team members in the development and implementation of a treatment plan.
Facilitates discharge planning through collaboration with Veterans and their families as well as interdisciplinary treatment team members to ensure that appropriate discharge plans are executed in a timely manner.
Serve as a liaison between Veterans and/or their families and VA and Community resources in order to ensure thorough delivery of services.
Provides consultation and education to Veterans and their families regarding community resources, VA benefits, specialty programs, and advance directives.
Administrative:
Responsible for supporting the mission, policies, and procedures of the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), the appropriate Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN), and the facility.
Willing to serve on committees and work groups at the facility as deemed appropriate by the supervisor.
Provide assistance with the orientation and learning of less experienced LMHPCs and to serve as a preceptor for LMHPC students when appropriate.
Document in the Veteran's electronic medical record chart (CPRS) and completes assessment and treatment plan in the electronic medical record system.
Work Schedule:
Monday - Friday, 8:
00am - 4:
30pmTelework:
AvailableVirtual:
This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #:
000000Relocation/Recruitment Incentives:
Not AuthorizedEDRP Authorized:
Contact email protected , the EDRP Coordinator for questions/assistance.
Learn morePermanent Change of Station (PCS):
Not AuthorizedFinancial Disclosure Report:
Not requiredPhysical Requirements:
The work is sedentary.
Some work may require movement between offices, hospitals, warehouses, and similar areas for meetings and to conduct work.
Work may also require walking/standing, in conjunctions with travel to and attendance at meetings and/or conferences away from the work site.
Incumbent may carry and lift light items weighing less than 15 pounds.
HelpRequirementsConditions of Employment You must be a U.
S.
Citizen to apply for this job.
Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959.
Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
You may be required to serve a probationary period.
Subject to background/security investigation.
Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process.
Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP).
Participation in the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination program is a requirement for all Veterans Health Administration Health Care Personnel (HCP) - See Additional Information below for details.
QualificationsTo qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement, 12/29/2023Basic Requirements:
United States Citizenship:
Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy.
Education:
Hold a master's or doctoral degree in:
Clinical Mental Health Counseling; Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling; Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling; or a related field, from a program accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).
Examples of related mental health counseling fields include, but are not limited to Addiction Counseling; Community Counseling; Gerontology Counseling; Marital, Couple, and Family Counseling.
CACREP defines the date when graduates are considered to have graduated from a CACREP accredited program.
Additional information may be obtained from http:
//www.
cacrep.
org/directory/.
NOTE:
Traditional Rehabilitation counseling programs that are accredited by CACREP do not meet the LPMHC qualification standards as Traditional Rehabilitation counseling differs from Clinical Rehabilitation counseling.
Licensure:
Persons hired or reassigned to LPMHC positions in the GS-0183 series in VHA must hold a full, current, and unrestricted license to independently practice as a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor, which includes diagnosis and treatment.
NOTE:
It is VHA policy that a LPMHC who does not yet have a license that allows independent practice must be supervised by a licensed independent practitioner of the same discipline who is a VA staff member and who has access to the electronic health record.
Exception.
VHA may waive the licensure requirement for persons who are otherwise qualified, pending completion of state prerequisites for licensure.
This exception only applies up to the full performance level.
For grade levels at or above the full performance level, the candidate must be licensed.
The appointing official may waive the requirement of licensure for a period not to exceed 3 years for a LPMHC that provides care under the clinical supervision of a licensed LPMHC who is at or above the full performance level.
This exception only applies at the entry level (GS-9).
For grade levels at or above the full performance level, the candidate must be licensed.
The Human Resources Office will provide the unlicensed LPMHC in writing the requirement to obtain licensure, the date by which the license must be acquired, and the consequences for not becoming licensed by the deadline.
The written notice must be provided prior to the entrance on duty date.
Failure to Obtain License.
In all cases, LPMHCs must actively pursue meeting state prerequisites for licensure starting from the date of their appointment.
Failure to become licensed within three years from date of appointment will result in removal from the GS-0183 LPMHC series and may result in termination of employment.
Loss of Licensure.
Once licensed, LPMHCs must maintain a full, valid, and unrestricted license to independently practice mental health counseling, which includes diagnosis and treatment.
Loss of licensure will result in removal from the GS-0183 LPMHC occupation and may result in termination of employment.
Physical Requirements:
See VA Directive and Handbook 5019.
English Language Proficiency:
LPMHCs must be proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with VA Handbook 5005, Part 11, chapter 3, section A, paragraph 3.
j.
May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria).
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-11.
The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-09 to GS-11.
Preferred
Experience:
Experience providing time-limited therapy (e.
g.
, 4-6 sessions) Experience with crisis intervention Experience with evidence-based treatments Experience in collaborating with primary care and other non behavioral health teamsReferences:
VA Handbook 5005/106, Part II, Appendix G43 dated April 3, 2018.
Grade Determinations:
GS-09 Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor, (Entry Level)Experience, Education, and Licensure.
The GS-9 grade level is the entry grade level for LPMHCs with less than one year of experience(post-master's degree) or for LPMHCs at the master's or doctoral level) who are graduates not yet licensed at the independent practice level.
Unlicensed LPMHCs at the GS-9 grade level have completed the required education listed above and are working toward completion of prerequisites for licensure.
Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities.
In addition, the candidates must demonstrate the KSAs below.
Ability to engage in intake and assessment, problem identification, diagnosis, treatment planning and implementation, continuum of care, evaluation and follow-up.
Knowledge of current Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) of Mental Disorders in formulation of treatment goals and application of appropriate clinical interventions using professional counseling practices.
Basic knowledge of professional counseling practice with emphasis on human development principles through cognitive, affective, behavioral or systemic interventions, and strategies that address high risk behaviors, wellness, personal growth, and career development across the life span.
Ability to use a wide variety of individual, group, or family counseling interventions; demonstrates sensitivity to diversity and possesses multicultural counseling skills.
Ability to serve on an interdisciplinary team with focus on the intrapersonal, interpersonal, and relational functioning of individuals, groups and families and on the counseling approaches, strategies, and techniques that will best help patients function effectively.
Basic skill in the use of computer software applications for drafting documents, data management, maintaining accurate, timely and thorough clinical documentation and delivery of services, such as Telehealth.
Ability to learn and utilize software programs in use by VHA.
Knowledge and understanding of existing relevant statutes, case laws, ethical codes, and regulations affecting professional practice of counseling.
Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with people from varied backgrounds.
GS-11 Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (Full Performance Level)Experience, Education, and Licensure.
In addition to the basic requirements, candidates must have at least one year of post-master's or post- doctoral degree mental health counseling experience (VA or non-VA experience) and must be licensed to practice at the independent practice level and demonstrate the KSAs below.
LPMHCs may provide clinical supervision over the clinical practice of an unlicensed LPMHC or LPMHC trainee.
Some state licenses do not license an individual to provide clinical supervision to trainees or unlicensed LPMHCs.
Please refer to specific state licensing laws regarding the requirements for providing clinical supervision.
Assignments.
This is the full performance grade level for LPMHCs.
At this level they are licensed to independently practice professional counseling and to provide mental health services within the knowledge, theory, and training foundations of professional counseling.
LPMHCs may be assigned to any VHA area, consulting with peers and supervisors as appropriate.
LPMHCs may be involved in program evaluation and/or research activities.
Qualification information continued under Additional InformationEducationIMPORTANT:
A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education.
Note:
Only education or degrees recognized by the U.
S.
Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment.
You can verify your education here:
http:
//ope.
ed.
gov/accreditation/.
If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education.
For further information, visit:
http:
//www.
ed.
gov/about/offices/list/ous/international/usnei/us/edlite-visitus-forrecog.
html.
Accreditation Information:
The master's or doctoral degree in:
Clinical Mental Health Counseling; Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling; Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling; or a related field, from a program accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).
Examples of related mental health counseling fields include, but are not limited to Addiction Counseling; Community Counseling; Gerontology Counseling; Marital, Couple, and Family Counseling.
CACREP defines the date when graduates are considered to have graduated from a CACREP accredited program.
Additional information may be obtained from http:
//www.
cacrep.
org/directory/.
NOTE:
If your school has changed names, or is no longer in existence, you must provide this information in your application.
Additional informationQualification Information ContinuedDemonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities.
In addition to meeting the KSAs for the GS-9 grade level, the candidate must demonstrate all of the KSAs below:
Ability to make professional evaluations, decisions, and recommendation for treatment planning and implementation.
Advanced knowledge and mastery of the fundamentals of the counseling process which includes defining patient/family problems and maintaining an effective counseling relationship.
Ability to provide subject matter consultation to colleagues and trainees on the counseling process within various specialty areas, build on the foundation of competence through regular meetings and discussions to explain assignments, review progress of cases and confer about the counseling perspectives and orientation.
Ability to provide complex crisis intervention and stabilization to patients who are in psychological distress.
Requires independent judgment and skill.
Ability to establish goals/treatment through a collaborative process with the patient utilizing advanced counseling skills, including evidenced- based practices, screening, and psychosocial assessment.
Ability to use a wide variety of individual, group, or familial counseling interventions; demonstrates sensitivity to diversity and possesses multicultural counseling skills.
Ability to fully utilize the current DSM in making diagnoses and formulation of treatment goals and application of appropriate clinical intervention using professional counseling practices.
Ability to develop and facilitate psychotherapy and psycho- education groups that include life skills, family support, and community integration.
This may include evidence based psychotherapy.
Receiving Service Credit or Earning Annual (Vacation) Leave:
Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employee.
Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior work experience or military service experience.
This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave.
Such credit must be requested and approved prior to the appointment date and is not guaranteed.
This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.
This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status.
VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply.
The health-related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority.
Pursuant to VHA Directive 1193.
01, VHA health care personnel (HCP) are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 subject to such accommodations as required by law (i.
e.
, medical, religious or pregnancy).
VHA HCPs do not include remote workers who only infrequently enter VHA locations.
If selected, you will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and submit documentation of proof of vaccination before your start date.
The agency will provide additional information regarding what information or documentation will be needed and how you can request a legally required accommodation from this requirement using the reasonable accommodation process.
If you are unable to apply online or need an alternate method to submit documents, please reach out to the Agency Contact listed in this Job Opportunity Announcement.
Read more BenefitsHelpA career with the U.
S.
government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package.
As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding.
Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefitsEligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent.
Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
How You Will Be EvaluatedYou will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC.
WE MAY NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE.
Your application, resume, C.
V.
, and/or supporting documentation will be verified.
Please follow all instructions carefully.
Errors or omissions may affect consideration for employment.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.
g.
, Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.
g.
, professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social).
Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.
You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
The Department of Veterans Affairs performs pre-employment reference checks as an assessment method used in the hiring process to verify information provided by a candidate (e.
g.
, on resume or during interview or hiring process); gain additional knowledge regarding a candidate's abilities; and assist a hiring manager with making a final selection for a position.
It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment.
Veterans and Transitioning Service Members:
Please visit the VA for Vets site for career-search tools for Veterans seeking employment at VA, career development services for our existing Veterans, and coaching and reintegration support for military service members.
Candidates are encouraged to apply to the vacancy announcement that matches their specific occupation/discipline (Psychologist, Social Worker, Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor), as each occupation has very specific qualification standards that are used to determine qualifications.
Candidates must meet the qualification requirements for the occupation/discipline to which an application package has been submitted.
We are unable to move applications to other vacancy announcementsplease make sure you are applying to the appropriate occupation/discipline.
This recruitment effort is currently focused on the following occupations/disciples:
Psychologist (VA/Federal/HPT) CAZM-12151176-24-EMG Psychologist (Public) CAZM-12151175-24-EMG Senior Social Worker (VA/Federal) CAZM-12151180-24-EMG Senior Social Worker (Public) CAZM-12151179-24-EMG Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (VA/Federal/HPT) CAZM-12151178-24-EMG Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (Public) CAZM-12151177-24-EMG Recommended Skills Administration Assessments Behavioral Medicine Clinical Practices Clinical Works Communication Estimated Salary: $20 to $28 per hour based on qualifications.
You must meet specific individual eligibility requirements in accordance with VHA policy and submit your EDRP application within four months of appointment.
Approval, award amount (up to $200,000) and eligibility period (one to five years) are determined by the VHA Education Loan Repayment Services program office after complete review of the EDRP application.
Learn more about this agencyHelpOverview Accepting applications Open & closing dates10/05/2023 to 12/29/2023 Salary$57,118 - $89,835 per year Pay scale & gradeGS 9 - 11 HelpLocation3 vacancies in the following location:
El Paso, TX Remote jobNo Telework eligibleYes-as determined by the agency policy.
Ad-hoc Travel RequiredNot required Relocation expenses reimbursedNo Appointment typePermanent - Work scheduleFull-time - ServiceExcepted Promotion potential11 Job family (Series)0183 Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor Supervisory statusNo Security clearanceOther Drug testNo Position sensitivity and riskNon-sensitive (NS)/Low Risk Trust determination processCredentialingSuitability/Fitness Announcement numberCAZM-12151177-24-EMG Control number753226000HelpThis job is open to The publicU.
S.
Citizens, Nationals or those who owe allegiance to the U.
S.
Clarification from the agencyThis vacancy announcement is an external (open to the public) job announcement.
Current permanent VA employees are encouraged to apply under the internal announcement to receive consideration based on their current employment status.
This is a mental health position open to multiple disciplines.
Please see How You Will Be Evaluated section for details on all occupations being considered for this recruitment effort.
Help This job is also open in another announcement to:
Federal employees - Competitive service Federal employees - Excepted service Internal to an agencyHelp This job is also open in another announcement to:
Federal employees - Competitive service Federal employees - Excepted service Internal to an agencyVideosHelpDutiesThis vacancy will remain open until filled.
The first cut-off cate is 10/12/2023.
Additional applicants will be referred as needed.
(NOTE:
Applications expire after 90 days.
Please update application thru USAJobs if you wish to be reconsidered.
)This position is located in Behavior Health Services.
The General Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (LPMHC) provides Behavior Health and Telemental Health Services to the Veteran population.
Telemedicine, also known as telehealth, uses electronic communications and information technology to provide and support healthcare when distance separates the service provider and the service recipient.
Telemedicine uses various communication methods to connect clinicians and patients in lieu of their meeting in person.
The term Telemental health services typically refers to behavioral health services that are provided using communication technology.
The term Telemental health describes the overall situation in which a clinician uses various technologies to deliver Behavior health care to a patient who is miles away.
Incumbent conducts behavior health assessments and treatment plans, provides consultation to the Behavior Health Service Providers to assess eligibility and appropriate level of care for Veterans in need of services.
Incumbent provides direct therapy to individuals, families, couples, and group.
Incumbent will work closely with other Behavior Health Service programs to ensure a seamless transition to appropriate services for Veterans.
Incumbent provides crisis intervention as needed for Veterans in Behavior Health in the outpatient setting.
Duties include, but are not limited to:
Clinical Uses a high level of skill in assessing and treating behavioral health concerns.
Incumbent will provide psychotherapy with individuals, couples, and families, crisis intervention supportive counseling, and referral for resources and benefits.
Has a high level of skill and expertise to establish and maintain effective therapeutic relationships with Veterans and/or their families.
Independently complete intake assessments to determine the psychosocial functioning and needs of Veterans and/or their families.
Actively participate as a member of an interdisciplinary treatment team and actively participate through collaboration with Veterans and family as well as interdisciplinary treatment team members in the development and implementation of a treatment plan.
Facilitates discharge planning through collaboration with Veterans and their families as well as interdisciplinary treatment team members to ensure that appropriate discharge plans are executed in a timely manner.
Serve as a liaison between Veterans and/or their families and VA and Community resources in order to ensure thorough delivery of services.
Provides consultation and education to Veterans and their families regarding community resources, VA benefits, specialty programs, and advance directives.
Administrative:
Responsible for supporting the mission, policies, and procedures of the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), the appropriate Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN), and the facility.
Willing to serve on committees and work groups at the facility as deemed appropriate by the supervisor.
Provide assistance with the orientation and learning of less experienced LMHPCs and to serve as a preceptor for LMHPC students when appropriate.
Document in the Veteran's electronic medical record chart (CPRS) and completes assessment and treatment plan in the electronic medical record system.
Work Schedule:
Monday - Friday, 8:
00am - 4:
30pmTelework:
AvailableVirtual:
This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #:
000000Relocation/Recruitment Incentives:
Not AuthorizedEDRP Authorized:
Contact email protected , the EDRP Coordinator for questions/assistance.
Learn morePermanent Change of Station (PCS):
Not AuthorizedFinancial Disclosure Report:
Not requiredPhysical Requirements:
The work is sedentary.
Some work may require movement between offices, hospitals, warehouses, and similar areas for meetings and to conduct work.
Work may also require walking/standing, in conjunctions with travel to and attendance at meetings and/or conferences away from the work site.
Incumbent may carry and lift light items weighing less than 15 pounds.
HelpRequirementsConditions of Employment You must be a U.
S.
Citizen to apply for this job.
Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959.
Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
You may be required to serve a probationary period.
Subject to background/security investigation.
Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process.
Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP).
Participation in the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination program is a requirement for all Veterans Health Administration Health Care Personnel (HCP) - See Additional Information below for details.
QualificationsTo qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement, 12/29/2023Basic Requirements:
United States Citizenship:
Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy.
Education:
Hold a master's or doctoral degree in:
Clinical Mental Health Counseling; Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling; Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling; or a related field, from a program accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).
Examples of related mental health counseling fields include, but are not limited to Addiction Counseling; Community Counseling; Gerontology Counseling; Marital, Couple, and Family Counseling.
CACREP defines the date when graduates are considered to have graduated from a CACREP accredited program.
Additional information may be obtained from http:
//www.
cacrep.
org/directory/.
NOTE:
Traditional Rehabilitation counseling programs that are accredited by CACREP do not meet the LPMHC qualification standards as Traditional Rehabilitation counseling differs from Clinical Rehabilitation counseling.
Licensure:
Persons hired or reassigned to LPMHC positions in the GS-0183 series in VHA must hold a full, current, and unrestricted license to independently practice as a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor, which includes diagnosis and treatment.
NOTE:
It is VHA policy that a LPMHC who does not yet have a license that allows independent practice must be supervised by a licensed independent practitioner of the same discipline who is a VA staff member and who has access to the electronic health record.
Exception.
VHA may waive the licensure requirement for persons who are otherwise qualified, pending completion of state prerequisites for licensure.
This exception only applies up to the full performance level.
For grade levels at or above the full performance level, the candidate must be licensed.
The appointing official may waive the requirement of licensure for a period not to exceed 3 years for a LPMHC that provides care under the clinical supervision of a licensed LPMHC who is at or above the full performance level.
This exception only applies at the entry level (GS-9).
For grade levels at or above the full performance level, the candidate must be licensed.
The Human Resources Office will provide the unlicensed LPMHC in writing the requirement to obtain licensure, the date by which the license must be acquired, and the consequences for not becoming licensed by the deadline.
The written notice must be provided prior to the entrance on duty date.
Failure to Obtain License.
In all cases, LPMHCs must actively pursue meeting state prerequisites for licensure starting from the date of their appointment.
Failure to become licensed within three years from date of appointment will result in removal from the GS-0183 LPMHC series and may result in termination of employment.
Loss of Licensure.
Once licensed, LPMHCs must maintain a full, valid, and unrestricted license to independently practice mental health counseling, which includes diagnosis and treatment.
Loss of licensure will result in removal from the GS-0183 LPMHC occupation and may result in termination of employment.
Physical Requirements:
See VA Directive and Handbook 5019.
English Language Proficiency:
LPMHCs must be proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with VA Handbook 5005, Part 11, chapter 3, section A, paragraph 3.
j.
May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria).
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-11.
The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-09 to GS-11.
Preferred
Experience:
Experience providing time-limited therapy (e.
g.
, 4-6 sessions) Experience with crisis intervention Experience with evidence-based treatments Experience in collaborating with primary care and other non behavioral health teamsReferences:
VA Handbook 5005/106, Part II, Appendix G43 dated April 3, 2018.
Grade Determinations:
GS-09 Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor, (Entry Level)Experience, Education, and Licensure.
The GS-9 grade level is the entry grade level for LPMHCs with less than one year of experience(post-master's degree) or for LPMHCs at the master's or doctoral level) who are graduates not yet licensed at the independent practice level.
Unlicensed LPMHCs at the GS-9 grade level have completed the required education listed above and are working toward completion of prerequisites for licensure.
Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities.
In addition, the candidates must demonstrate the KSAs below.
Ability to engage in intake and assessment, problem identification, diagnosis, treatment planning and implementation, continuum of care, evaluation and follow-up.
Knowledge of current Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) of Mental Disorders in formulation of treatment goals and application of appropriate clinical interventions using professional counseling practices.
Basic knowledge of professional counseling practice with emphasis on human development principles through cognitive, affective, behavioral or systemic interventions, and strategies that address high risk behaviors, wellness, personal growth, and career development across the life span.
Ability to use a wide variety of individual, group, or family counseling interventions; demonstrates sensitivity to diversity and possesses multicultural counseling skills.
Ability to serve on an interdisciplinary team with focus on the intrapersonal, interpersonal, and relational functioning of individuals, groups and families and on the counseling approaches, strategies, and techniques that will best help patients function effectively.
Basic skill in the use of computer software applications for drafting documents, data management, maintaining accurate, timely and thorough clinical documentation and delivery of services, such as Telehealth.
Ability to learn and utilize software programs in use by VHA.
Knowledge and understanding of existing relevant statutes, case laws, ethical codes, and regulations affecting professional practice of counseling.
Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with people from varied backgrounds.
GS-11 Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (Full Performance Level)Experience, Education, and Licensure.
In addition to the basic requirements, candidates must have at least one year of post-master's or post- doctoral degree mental health counseling experience (VA or non-VA experience) and must be licensed to practice at the independent practice level and demonstrate the KSAs below.
LPMHCs may provide clinical supervision over the clinical practice of an unlicensed LPMHC or LPMHC trainee.
Some state licenses do not license an individual to provide clinical supervision to trainees or unlicensed LPMHCs.
Please refer to specific state licensing laws regarding the requirements for providing clinical supervision.
Assignments.
This is the full performance grade level for LPMHCs.
At this level they are licensed to independently practice professional counseling and to provide mental health services within the knowledge, theory, and training foundations of professional counseling.
LPMHCs may be assigned to any VHA area, consulting with peers and supervisors as appropriate.
LPMHCs may be involved in program evaluation and/or research activities.
Qualification information continued under Additional InformationEducationIMPORTANT:
A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education.
Note:
Only education or degrees recognized by the U.
S.
Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment.
You can verify your education here:
http:
//ope.
ed.
gov/accreditation/.
If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education.
For further information, visit:
http:
//www.
ed.
gov/about/offices/list/ous/international/usnei/us/edlite-visitus-forrecog.
html.
Accreditation Information:
The master's or doctoral degree in:
Clinical Mental Health Counseling; Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling; Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling; or a related field, from a program accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).
Examples of related mental health counseling fields include, but are not limited to Addiction Counseling; Community Counseling; Gerontology Counseling; Marital, Couple, and Family Counseling.
CACREP defines the date when graduates are considered to have graduated from a CACREP accredited program.
Additional information may be obtained from http:
//www.
cacrep.
org/directory/.
NOTE:
If your school has changed names, or is no longer in existence, you must provide this information in your application.
Additional informationQualification Information ContinuedDemonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities.
In addition to meeting the KSAs for the GS-9 grade level, the candidate must demonstrate all of the KSAs below:
Ability to make professional evaluations, decisions, and recommendation for treatment planning and implementation.
Advanced knowledge and mastery of the fundamentals of the counseling process which includes defining patient/family problems and maintaining an effective counseling relationship.
Ability to provide subject matter consultation to colleagues and trainees on the counseling process within various specialty areas, build on the foundation of competence through regular meetings and discussions to explain assignments, review progress of cases and confer about the counseling perspectives and orientation.
Ability to provide complex crisis intervention and stabilization to patients who are in psychological distress.
Requires independent judgment and skill.
Ability to establish goals/treatment through a collaborative process with the patient utilizing advanced counseling skills, including evidenced- based practices, screening, and psychosocial assessment.
Ability to use a wide variety of individual, group, or familial counseling interventions; demonstrates sensitivity to diversity and possesses multicultural counseling skills.
Ability to fully utilize the current DSM in making diagnoses and formulation of treatment goals and application of appropriate clinical intervention using professional counseling practices.
Ability to develop and facilitate psychotherapy and psycho- education groups that include life skills, family support, and community integration.
This may include evidence based psychotherapy.
Receiving Service Credit or Earning Annual (Vacation) Leave:
Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employee.
Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior work experience or military service experience.
This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave.
Such credit must be requested and approved prior to the appointment date and is not guaranteed.
This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.
This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status.
VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply.
The health-related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority.
Pursuant to VHA Directive 1193.
01, VHA health care personnel (HCP) are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 subject to such accommodations as required by law (i.
e.
, medical, religious or pregnancy).
VHA HCPs do not include remote workers who only infrequently enter VHA locations.
If selected, you will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and submit documentation of proof of vaccination before your start date.
The agency will provide additional information regarding what information or documentation will be needed and how you can request a legally required accommodation from this requirement using the reasonable accommodation process.
If you are unable to apply online or need an alternate method to submit documents, please reach out to the Agency Contact listed in this Job Opportunity Announcement.
Read more BenefitsHelpA career with the U.
S.
government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package.
As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding.
Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefitsEligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent.
Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
How You Will Be EvaluatedYou will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC.
WE MAY NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE.
Your application, resume, C.
V.
, and/or supporting documentation will be verified.
Please follow all instructions carefully.
Errors or omissions may affect consideration for employment.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.
g.
, Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.
g.
, professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social).
Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.
You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
The Department of Veterans Affairs performs pre-employment reference checks as an assessment method used in the hiring process to verify information provided by a candidate (e.
g.
, on resume or during interview or hiring process); gain additional knowledge regarding a candidate's abilities; and assist a hiring manager with making a final selection for a position.
It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment.
Veterans and Transitioning Service Members:
Please visit the VA for Vets site for career-search tools for Veterans seeking employment at VA, career development services for our existing Veterans, and coaching and reintegration support for military service members.
Candidates are encouraged to apply to the vacancy announcement that matches their specific occupation/discipline (Psychologist, Social Worker, Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor), as each occupation has very specific qualification standards that are used to determine qualifications.
Candidates must meet the qualification requirements for the occupation/discipline to which an application package has been submitted.
We are unable to move applications to other vacancy announcementsplease make sure you are applying to the appropriate occupation/discipline.
This recruitment effort is currently focused on the following occupations/disciples:
Psychologist (VA/Federal/HPT) CAZM-12151176-24-EMG Psychologist (Public) CAZM-12151175-24-EMG Senior Social Worker (VA/Federal) CAZM-12151180-24-EMG Senior Social Worker (Public) CAZM-12151179-24-EMG Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (VA/Federal/HPT) CAZM-12151178-24-EMG Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (Public) CAZM-12151177-24-EMG Recommended Skills Administration Assessments Behavioral Medicine Clinical Practices Clinical Works Communication Estimated Salary: $20 to $28 per hour based on qualifications.
|
|
 | |
