Staff Psychologist - Primary Care Mental Health Integration

Summary 3 full‑time Staff Psychologists are needed for the Primary Care Mental Health Integration (PCMHI) program at the South Des Moines VA Clinic (1211 E Army Post Rd, Des Moines, IA). This position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP). Eligibility and Basic Requirements Citizenship: United States Citizenship. Non‑citizens may be considered only when qualified citizens are unavailable per VA policy. Education: Doctoral degree in psychology from an APA, CPA, or PCSAS accredited program. If degree is in another psychology area, a re‑specialization program or a qualifying internship is required (see qualifications below). Licensure: Unrestricted, full‑time license to practice psychology at the doctoral level in a U.S. jurisdiction. Non‑licensed applicants may receive a temporary GS‑11/GS‑12 appointment under 38 U.S.C. § 7405 (c)(2)(B) for up to two years, subject to supervised practice and license attainment. English Proficiency: Adequate spoken and written English as defined in VA Handbook 5005 Part II. Qualifications Possess a doctoral degree in psychology or qualified re‑specialization, with an internship completed in an APA/CPA accredited program or equivalent board certification. Professional experience equivalent to the required grade level: GS‑11: No previous experience beyond basic requirements. GS‑12: At least one year of professional psychologist experience at the GS‑11 level. GS‑13: At least two years of professional psychologist experience, including one year at the GS‑12 level. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA) for the assigned grade: Ability to apply a wide range of evidence‑based psychological treatments and assessment methods to diverse veteran populations. Design and implement effective treatment strategies, incorporating new clinical procedures. Conduct research activities (staff psychologists with specified research duties) and collaborate within a research team. Provide professional consultation on behavioral health, clinical research literature, and staffing issues. Maintain board certification if applicable and meet all VA qualifications standards. Duties and Responsibilities Conduct comprehensive psychological assessments and formulate diagnostic impressions using standardized and clinically appropriate methods. Deliver evidence‑based psychotherapy for mental health, substance use, behavioral, and psychosocial concerns within granted clinical privileges. Complete required clinical documentation and charting in accordance with healthcare system timelines, quality standards, and accreditation requirements. Supervise unlicensed staff and trainees, providing guidance and education in psychological service delivery. Offer consultation to other health professionals regarding psychological services and treatment planning. Educate patients, families, professional staff, and trainees on mental health conditions and treatment approaches. Perform risk assessments for self‑harm or harm to others and implement suicide prevention and crisis management procedures. Work as a contributing member of multidisciplinary medical and mental health teams in inpatient, outpatient, or specialty care settings. Participate in performance improvement and quality assurance activities relevant to psychological services. Abide by the ethical principles set by psychology licensing boards and maintain professional conduct. Support and participate in scientific activity; may serve on internal or external committees; may have limited administrative responsibilities. Compensation and Benefits Salary: Competitive salary with regular increases (base pay compliant with GS pay scale). Paid Time Off: 37‑50 days of annual paid time off (13‑26 days annual leave, 13 days sick leave, 11 paid federal holidays). Parental Leave: After 12 months of employment, up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave for birth, adoption, or foster care placement. Child Care Subsidy: Eligible after 60 days of employment for employees with a family income below $144,000; up to 25% of eligible childcare costs, capped at $416.66 per month. Retirement: Traditional federal pension (5‑year vesting) and 401(k) with up to 5% VA Insurance contribution. Insurance: VA health, vision, dental, term life, long‑term care insurance available. Telework: Not available unless otherwise specified; position is not virtual. Work Schedule Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) The position is eligible for the EDRP student‑loan repayment reimbursement program. Applicants must submit an EDRP application within four months of appointment. Award amounts (up to $200,000) and eligibility periods (one‑to‑five years) are determined by the VHA Education Loan Repayment Services program office after review of the application. Former EDRP participants are ineligible. Physical Requirements A pre‑employment examination or evaluation will be required as part of the hiring process. Questions regarding physical demands or environmental factors may be addressed at the time of evaluation or examination. Additional Information The VA Midwest Health Care Network advocates a Whole Health System of care; employees operate within a model emphasizing personalized health plans for Veterans and collaborative relationships across health and community settings. #J-18808-Ljbffr U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs