The Veterans Health Administration, VHA, is currently recruiting for one GS 9 target 11 as a Marriage Family Therapist, a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor or Social Worker to work in the Mental Health-Outpatient-Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program.
Summary
The Veterans Health Administration, VHA, is currently recruiting for one GS 9 target 11 as a Marriage Family Therapist, a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor or Social Worker to work in the Mental Health-Outpatient-Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program.
This is an open continuous announcement. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. Qualified candidates are considered at regular intervals as vacancies occur. Resumes will remain on file until Sep 30, 2024.
This is an EXTERNAL job announcement open to current, permanent federal employees, Veterans & the public.
Current permanent Health Administration employees MUST apply to announcement # CBSU-12149753-23-JMW.
Marriage and Family Therapist-Mental Health-Outpatient-Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program, BHIP duties include but aren't limited to:
Serves as member of interdisciplinary team as a serve as a resource for referrals, mental health recommendations, and coordination of care.
Demonstrates I-Care values when interacting w/ all internal/external customers.
Maintains current knowledge of & practices in accordance w/ The Joint Commission requirements.
Protects printed & electronic files containing sensitive data according to Federal privacy Act & confidentiality statutes.
Follows regulations & instructions regarding release of sensitive/protected patient/ employee information.
May serve on Service Line committees, workgroups, &/or task forces, etc.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Work Schedule: Monday-Friday 8:00am-4:30pm Telework: May be available for the highly qualified applicant Virtual: This is not a virtual position Functional Statement #:Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required
All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment. Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA.
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.
Must pass pre-employment physical examination.
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.
Qualifications
Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met.
Basic Requirements:
U. S. Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it's not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance w/ VA Policy
English Language Proficiency. Applicants must be proficient in spoken & written English
Education: Candidates must meet one of the following:
(1) Hold a master's or doctoral degree in marriage & family therapy from a program approved by COAMFTE
OR
(2) Hold a master's or doctoral degree in marriage & family therapy from a MFT program from a regionally accredited institution
OR
(3)Hold a master's or doctoral degree in a comparable mental health degree Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor, Social Work, Psychiatric Nursing, Psychology & Psychiatry that meets current VA qualification standards of that profession
Licensure. Persons hired/reassigned to MFT positions in the GS-0182 series in VHA must hold a full, current & unrestricted MFT license to independently practice marriage & family therapy in a State
Exception: The Secretary, or his/her designee, may waive licensure requirements for persons who are otherwise qualified, pending completion of State prerequisites for licensure examinations not to exceed 3 years from employment start date on the condition that MFTs appointed on this basis provide care only under supervision of a fully licensed MFT w/ an AAMFT approved license. Non-licensed MFTs who otherwise meet the eligibility requirements may be given an appointment as an MFT under the authority of 38 U.S.C. § 7401(3). This exception only applies at entry grade GS-9 levels. Candidate must be licensed for grades at/above full performance levels
(1) MFTs that aren't licensed when appointed must become licensed at independent Journey levels w/in 3 years of MFT appointment. Most States require 2 years of post-graduate MFT experience as a pre-requisite to taking licensure examination; VHA allow MFTs 1 additional year to pass licensure exam
(2) It's VHA policy that MFTs who don't have a license that allow independent practice must be clinically supervised by AAMFT approved licensed MFT at/above journey level who's a VA staff member & who's access to the electronic health record
Failure to Obtain License. In all cases, unlicensed MFTs must actively pursue meeting State prerequisites for licensure starting from appointment date. Upon appointment, Human Resource Officer provides unlicensed MFTs w/ written requirements for licensure, the date by which the license must be obtained & consequences for not becoming licensed by the deadline. Failure to obtain a license by the prescribed date results in removal from the GS-0182 MFT series & may result in employment termination
Loss of Licensure. Once licensed, MFTs must maintain a full, current/unrestricted license to remain qualified for employment. Loss of licensure results in removal from the GS-0182 MFT series & may result in employment termination
Grade Determination Requirements:In addition to basic requirements for employment, the following criteria must be met when determining a candidate's grade
GS-9
Experience, Education and Licensure Entry level grade is used for non licensed MFTs or for MFTs, master's or doctoral level, who are graduates not yet licensed at the independent practice, Journey level. Unlicensed MFTs at the GS-9 grade level have completed the required education listed above & are working towards completing their license prerequisites
AND
In addition, candidates must demonstrate the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities, KSAs below:
1) Knowledge of human development throughout lifespan, interventions based on research & family systems theory/therapy, formal diagnostic criteria, risk assessment, evidence-based practice & assessment tools
2) Ability to assess, w/ supervision, the psychosocial functioning & needs of Veterans/family members
3) Knowledge to formulate, implement & re-evaluate treatment plans through continuous assessment identifying Veteran's challenges, strengths, readiness to change, external influences & current events surrounding origins/maintenance of presenting issues & interactional patterns w/in the client system
4) Ability to provide counseling &/or psychotherapy services, under supervision, to individuals, groups, couples/families in culturally competent manner that facilitates change through client system restructuring/reorganizing
5) Basic knowledge/understanding of existing relevant statutes, case law, ethical codes & regulations affecting professional practice of marriage/family therapy
6) Ability to draft documents, manage data, maintain accurate, timely & thorough clinical documentation & track quality improvements
GS-11 Experience, Education and Licensure In addition to the basic requirements, the GS-11 full performance level requires completion of a minimum of one year of post-master's degree experience in the field of marriage and family therapy work, VA or non-VA experience and licensure in a State at the independent practice level.
AND
In addition, candidates must demonstrate KSAs below:
OR
In addition to the basic requirements, a doctoral degree in marriage & family therapy or comparable degree in mental health that meets the current VA qualification standard of that profession, Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor, Social Work, Psychiatric Nursing, Psychology & Psychiatry, may be substituted for the required one year of marriage & family therapy experience in a clinical setting
AND
Candidates must be licensed to practice at the independent practice level
AND
Must demonstrate the following KSAs
1) Skill to independently assess psychosocial functioning & Veterans & family member
2) Ability to provide counseling &/or psychotherapy services to individuals, groups, couples & families in a culturally competent manner that facilitates change through restructuring/reorganizing client system
3) Ability to establish/maintain effective working relationships w/ Veterans/their families, colleagues & other professionals in collaboration throughout treatment regarding clinical, ethical & legal issues/concerns
4) Knowledge/understanding of existing relevant statutes, case law, ethical codes, regulations/VA policies affecting marriage and family therapy practice: including ability to assist Veterans/families to make informed decisions relevant to treatment to include confidentiality limits
5) Ability to provide orientation, training/consultation to new MFTs including clinical oversight of MFT graduate students &/or provide clinical supervision to pre-licensure MFTs
6) Skill using computer software applications to draft documents, manage data, maintain accurate, timely & thorough clinical documentation & track quality improvement
References: VA Handbook 5005/101 Part II Appendix G44
This vacancy's full performance level is a GS-11 An applicant may be selected at a GS-9 to a GS-11 grade for this vacancy.
Physical Requirements:
Work is primarily sedentary
Requires movement between offices, hospital, warehouses & similar areas for meetings & to conduct work
Requires frequent walking/standing & carrying/lifting light items less than 15 pounds
Education
IMPORTANT: A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education. Transcripts can be unofficial transcripts, but must include the following: your name, the school's entire name, the name of the course, date course taken, grade received for the course, amount of credits earned for the course, date degree conferred, (if applicable), and the name of degree received, (if applicable).
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.
Additional information
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.
A 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.
Eligibility 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 evaluated
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
Please be clear and specific in describing your experience, or any information in your resume or any attachments you provide. We will not make assumptions regarding any information provided regarding your experience on your resume or any information contained in your application materials. Your application, résumé, 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.
A 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.
Eligibility 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.
WE HIGHLY RECOMMEND YOU USE THE FEDERAL RESUME BUILDER ON USA JOBS AS IT PROMPTS YOU TO ADD REQUIRED INFOMATION NEEDED TO DETERMINATION ELIGIBILITY AND QUALIFICATIONS.
To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes:
1. CV or Resume: Resume must include how to contact you, descriptions of jobs held including the employer's/company's AND supervisor's name and phone number, job title, detailed description of job duties,beginning and ending date, (month and year) of employment, and average hours worked per week. (Required to upload copy of document).
2. SF-50 - Notification of Personnel Action (Current and former federal employees) must submit your latest SF-50 showing your current grade, step and salary. (NOTE: Award SF-50 are normally not acceptable due to the grade step and salary missing.) (Required to be uploaded, and must be submitted if current or former employee).
3. Copy of Transcripts - Can be official or unofficial. (Required to be uploaded, can be unofficial transcripts, but transcripts must include the following information: your name, the school's entire name, must have the name of the course, date course taken, grade received for the course, amount of credits earned for the course, date degree conferred, & name of degree received). (Required to be uploaded, and must be submitted if using education to qualify for position).
4. Copy of a full, current, and unrestricted license to independently practice mental health counseling, which includes diagnosis and treatment. (Required to be uploaded).
5. VA Form 10-2850C VA Form 10-2850c an be found at: https://www.va.gov/vaforms/medical/pdf/vha-10-2850c-fill.pdf.(Not required to upload document but if selected will be required to complete it.) PAGE 3 AND 4 REQUIRED TO BE SIGNED. PLEASE FILL OUT ALL BOXES, AND ENTRIES, IF DOESN'T APPY, ENTER "N/A".
6. Veteran's documents (Required, if an eligible Veteran claiming Veteran's preference)
7. Optional cover letter (Not required, but desired).
The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please use this checklist to ensure you have included all documents required for your application, such as a copy of your transcript (if using education to qualify), SF-50's (current/former Federal employees), etc.
Cover Letter
DD-214/ Statement of Service
Disability Letter (VA)
Copy of a full, current, and unrestricted Marriage and Family license to independently practice from a State & expired MFT license information to verify eligibility.
Resume
SF-15
SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
Transcript
Veterans' Preference: When applying for Federal Jobs, eligible Veterans should claim preference for 5pt (TP), 10pt (CP/CPS/XP), or for Sole Survivor Preference (SSP) in the questionnaire. You must provide a legible copy of your DD214(s) which shows dates and character of service (honorable, general, etc.). If you are currently serving on active duty and expect to be released or discharged within 120 days you must submit documentation related to your active duty service which reflects the dates of service, character of service (honorable, general, etc.), and dates of impending separation. Additionally, disabled veterans and others eligible for 10-point preference (such as widows or mothers of eligible Veterans) must also submit an SF-15 "Application for 10 Point Veteran Preference" with required proof as stated on the form. Documentation is required to award preference. For more information on Veterans' Preference, please visit Feds Hire Vets - Veterans - Job Seekers - Veterans' Preference.
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
All applicants are encouraged to apply online. To apply for this position, you must complete the full questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (Eastern Standard Time) on 09/30/2024 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12149755.
To begin, click Apply Online to create a USAJOBS account or log in to your existing account. Follow the prompts to select your USA JOBS resume and/or other supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire.
Click Submit My Answers to submit your application package.
NOTE: It is your responsibility to ensure your responses and appropriate documentation is submitted prior to the closing date.
To verify your application is complete, log into your USA JOBS account, https://my.usajobs.gov/Account/Login, select the Application Status link and then select the more information link for this position. The Details page will display the status of your application, the documentation received and processed, and any correspondence the agency has sent related to this application. Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process. To return to an incomplete application, log into your USA JOBS account and click Update Application in the vacancy announcement. You must re-select your resume and/or other documents from your USA JOBS account or your application will be incomplete.
Fort Harrison VA Medical Center
3687 Veterans Drive
Fort Harrison, MT 59636
US
Next steps
Once your online application is submitted you will receive a confirmation notification by email. After we receive application packages (including all required documents) and the vacancy announcement closes, we will review applications to ensure qualification and eligibility requirements are met. After the review is complete, a referral certificate(s) is issued and applicants will be notified of their status by email. Referred applicants will be notified as such and may be contacted directly by the hiring office for an interview. All referred applicants receive a final notification once a selection decision has been made.
You may check the status of your application at any time by logging into your USA Jobs account and clicking on Applications. Information regarding your application status can be found in the USAJobs Help Center.
NOTE: Participation in the seasonal influenza program is a condition of employment and a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). It is a requirement that all HCP to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccination or obtain an exemption for medical or religious reasons. Wearing a face mask is required when an exemption to the influenza vaccination has been granted. HCP in violation of this directive may face disciplinary action up to and including removal from federal service. HCP are individuals who, during the influenza season, work in VHA locations or who come into contact with VA patients or other HCP as part of their duties. VHA locations include, but are not limited to, VA hospitals and associated clinics, community living centers (CLCs), community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs), domiciliary units, Vet centers and VA-leased medical facilities. HCP include all VA licensed and unlicensed, clinical and administrative, remote and onsite, paid and without compensation, full- and part-time employees, intermittent employees, fee basis employees, VA contractors, researchers, volunteers and health professions trainees (HPTs) who are expected to perform any or all of their work at these facilities. HPTs may be paid or unpaid and include residents, interns, fellows and students. HCP also includes VHA personnel providing home-based care to Veterans and drivers and other personnel whose duties put them in contact with patients outside VA medical facilities.
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
WE HIGHLY RECOMMEND YOU USE THE FEDERAL RESUME BUILDER ON USA JOBS AS IT PROMPTS YOU TO ADD REQUIRED INFOMATION NEEDED TO DETERMINATION ELIGIBILITY AND QUALIFICATIONS.
To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes:
1. CV or Resume: Resume must include how to contact you, descriptions of jobs held including the employer's/company's AND supervisor's name and phone number, job title, detailed description of job duties,beginning and ending date, (month and year) of employment, and average hours worked per week. (Required to upload copy of document).
2. SF-50 - Notification of Personnel Action (Current and former federal employees) must submit your latest SF-50 showing your current grade, step and salary. (NOTE: Award SF-50 are normally not acceptable due to the grade step and salary missing.) (Required to be uploaded, and must be submitted if current or former employee).
3. Copy of Transcripts - Can be official or unofficial. (Required to be uploaded, can be unofficial transcripts, but transcripts must include the following information: your name, the school's entire name, must have the name of the course, date course taken, grade received for the course, amount of credits earned for the course, date degree conferred, & name of degree received). (Required to be uploaded, and must be submitted if using education to qualify for position).
4. Copy of a full, current, and unrestricted license to independently practice mental health counseling, which includes diagnosis and treatment. (Required to be uploaded).
5. VA Form 10-2850C VA Form 10-2850c an be found at: https://www.va.gov/vaforms/medical/pdf/vha-10-2850c-fill.pdf.(Not required to upload document but if selected will be required to complete it.) PAGE 3 AND 4 REQUIRED TO BE SIGNED. PLEASE FILL OUT ALL BOXES, AND ENTRIES, IF DOESN'T APPY, ENTER "N/A".
6. Veteran's documents (Required, if an eligible Veteran claiming Veteran's preference)
7. Optional cover letter (Not required, but desired).
The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please use this checklist to ensure you have included all documents required for your application, such as a copy of your transcript (if using education to qualify), SF-50's (current/former Federal employees), etc.
Cover Letter
DD-214/ Statement of Service
Disability Letter (VA)
Copy of a full, current, and unrestricted Marriage and Family license to independently practice from a State & expired MFT license information to verify eligibility.
Resume
SF-15
SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
Transcript
Veterans' Preference: When applying for Federal Jobs, eligible Veterans should claim preference for 5pt (TP), 10pt (CP/CPS/XP), or for Sole Survivor Preference (SSP) in the questionnaire. You must provide a legible copy of your DD214(s) which shows dates and character of service (honorable, general, etc.). If you are currently serving on active duty and expect to be released or discharged within 120 days you must submit documentation related to your active duty service which reflects the dates of service, character of service (honorable, general, etc.), and dates of impending separation. Additionally, disabled veterans and others eligible for 10-point preference (such as widows or mothers of eligible Veterans) must also submit an SF-15 "Application for 10 Point Veteran Preference" with required proof as stated on the form. Documentation is required to award preference. For more information on Veterans' Preference, please visit Feds Hire Vets - Veterans - Job Seekers - Veterans' Preference.
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
All applicants are encouraged to apply online. To apply for this position, you must complete the full questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (Eastern Standard Time) on 09/30/2024 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12149755.
To begin, click Apply Online to create a USAJOBS account or log in to your existing account. Follow the prompts to select your USA JOBS resume and/or other supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire.
Click Submit My Answers to submit your application package.
NOTE: It is your responsibility to ensure your responses and appropriate documentation is submitted prior to the closing date.
To verify your application is complete, log into your USA JOBS account, https://my.usajobs.gov/Account/Login, select the Application Status link and then select the more information link for this position. The Details page will display the status of your application, the documentation received and processed, and any correspondence the agency has sent related to this application. Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process. To return to an incomplete application, log into your USA JOBS account and click Update Application in the vacancy announcement. You must re-select your resume and/or other documents from your USA JOBS account or your application will be incomplete.
Fort Harrison VA Medical Center
3687 Veterans Drive
Fort Harrison, MT 59636
US
Next steps
Once your online application is submitted you will receive a confirmation notification by email. After we receive application packages (including all required documents) and the vacancy announcement closes, we will review applications to ensure qualification and eligibility requirements are met. After the review is complete, a referral certificate(s) is issued and applicants will be notified of their status by email. Referred applicants will be notified as such and may be contacted directly by the hiring office for an interview. All referred applicants receive a final notification once a selection decision has been made.
You may check the status of your application at any time by logging into your USA Jobs account and clicking on Applications. Information regarding your application status can be found in the USAJobs Help Center.
NOTE: Participation in the seasonal influenza program is a condition of employment and a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). It is a requirement that all HCP to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccination or obtain an exemption for medical or religious reasons. Wearing a face mask is required when an exemption to the influenza vaccination has been granted. HCP in violation of this directive may face disciplinary action up to and including removal from federal service. HCP are individuals who, during the influenza season, work in VHA locations or who come into contact with VA patients or other HCP as part of their duties. VHA locations include, but are not limited to, VA hospitals and associated clinics, community living centers (CLCs), community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs), domiciliary units, Vet centers and VA-leased medical facilities. HCP include all VA licensed and unlicensed, clinical and administrative, remote and onsite, paid and without compensation, full- and part-time employees, intermittent employees, fee basis employees, VA contractors, researchers, volunteers and health professions trainees (HPTs) who are expected to perform any or all of their work at these facilities. HPTs may be paid or unpaid and include residents, interns, fellows and students. HCP also includes VHA personnel providing home-based care to Veterans and drivers and other personnel whose duties put them in contact with patients outside VA medical facilities.
Fair and transparent
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
