Social Worker (STAR)

Job Title

Incumbent must possess the knowledge and ability to independently screen, assess, implement treatment modalities for a SUD specific treatment population. Treatment interventions include but are not limited to psychotherapy, psychosocial counseling, measurement based care and will be evidence-based in nature. Independently conducts psychosocial and/or diagnostic assessments including use of the Diagnostic & Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR) as the basis for diagnostic impressions and conclusions. Develops person-centered, culturally sensitive treatment plans in collaboration with the Veteran to address the mental health needs of patients. The GS-11 STAR Social Worker independently monitors effectiveness of treatment interventions and utilizes ongoing transitional/ discharge planning. Has working knowledge and experience in use of medical and mental health diagnoses, disabilities and treatment procedures. This includes acute, chronic and traumatic illnesses/injuries, common medications and their effects/side effects, and medical terminology. The Social Worker links the Veteran with services, resources, and opportunities, in order to maximize the Veteran's independence, health, and well-being. They conduct timely assessment of at-risk Veterans in crisis to identify immediate needs, evaluate risk, and initiate safety plan as appropriate. Coordinates with the facility Suicide Prevention Coordinator where clinically warranted for a Veteran patient under their care. Independently provides consultation services to other staff regarding the psychosocial needs of Veterans experiencing SUD and the impact of social drivers of health (SDOH) on health care and adherence to treatment plan. Ability to evaluate one's own practice through professional peer review, case conferences and other organizational means. Incumbent is able to communicate effectively- both orally and in writing- with people from varied backgrounds. Incumbent completes assigned Performance Improvement activities at program, service line, and medical center levels. General knowledge of Veterans' benefits and services relating to special programs, service-connected compensation, and non-service connected pension. Facilitates referrals based upon Veteran needs and eligibility. Incumbent is able to meet the needs of customers while supporting VA missions. Consistently communicates and treats customers (Veterans, their representative, visitors and all VA staff) in a courteous, tactful, and respectful manner. Incumbent is able to provide the customer with consistent information according to established policies and procedures. Handles conflict and problems in dealing with the consumer constructively and appropriately. Has working knowledge and skill in the use of word-processing; data management and other computer systems, especially those programs in use by VHA. The Social Worker at the GS-11 full performance level complies with national and local performance mandates, including timely health care screening and completion of applicable clinical reminders for all patients. Incumbent promotes effective transitional discharge planning to and from an outpatient level of care. Coordinates with internal VA stakeholders to community-based services, including information and referral for additional services from other VA programs, other government programs and community agency programs. They link the Veteran with services, resources, and opportunities, in order to maximize the Veteran's independence, health, and well-being. Incumbent provides professional, independent social work services in the assigned area. Duties include but are not limited to: assessing and documenting identified behaviors or symptoms of abuse, neglect, exploitation and/or intimate partner violence; use of clinical social work skills and knowledge to maintain Veteran privacy and confidentiality per policies, handbooks or directives; and acts as an advocate with appropriate VA and community service providers and agencies when it serves the best interest of the Veteran and family members/caregiver. GS-11 Social Workers serve on committees, work groups, and task forces at the facility and VISN level or in the community. They provide subject matter consultation to colleagues and health profession trainees on the psychosocial treatment of Veterans. They offer professional opinions based on experience, expertise and modeling of effective social work practice skills.