Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor
Company Name:
Department Of Veterans Affairs
United States Citizens Excepted Service Permanent Full Time Vacancy Identification Number (VIN) 1238951
THIS ANNOUNCEMENT IS CONCURRENCE WITH H15-9-1239031; ONLY ONE SELECTION WILL BE MADE
WHO WE ARE: We are people who take great pride and deep satisfaction in providing America's veterans with the best clinical care, the most innovative technology, and the most comprehensive array of benefits America has to offer.
MISSION& VISION: To care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow and his orphan.-Abraham Lincoln
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.
Come join our team and get pure job satisfaction, while caring for those who have served (or are currently serving) our countryour nation's Veterans.
The Cambridge VA Outpatient Clinic is one of five community based outpatient clinics within the VA Maryland Health Care System. It provides exceptional health care services coordinated by experienced and compassionate staff giving personalized attention to the veterans they serve. In downtown Cambridge, you'll find old-fashioned Chesapeake charm comes with a fun, contemporary touch. Come see for yourself why Downtown Cambridge is the Eastern Shore's next big thing.
Top 5 reasons YOU should choose a career with VA:
1. A premium benefits package
2. A fulfilling and challenging work environment
3. Work where you want to live
4. On-the-job growth and advancement
5. To discover the career you want, for the future you deserve
Be a member of a team providing compassionate healthcare to veterans. We are an employer of choice who is a center of excellence in patient care, education and research. We value trust, respect, commitment, compassion, and excellence; we value you.
Go to / for more information on the Department of Veterans / for more information on the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Must pass pre-employment examination Must be proficient in written and spoken English Designated and-or Random Drug Testing required Background and-or Security Investigation required Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959. Degree must be accredited by CACREP at the graduation Licensure, Certification, or Registration Required
THIS ANNOUNCEMENT IS CONCURRENCE WITH H15-9-1239031; ONLY ONE SELECTION WILL BE MADE
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-11. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is GS-11. The Professional Standards Boards (a peer review group) will review the selected candidate's qualifications and recommend the grade and step at which approved for the selected candidate will be placed. The salary is based on the grade and step approved for the selected candidate.
_TOUR OF DUTY_ : This position is full time: Monday- Friday 8:00am-4:00pm; Occasional evenings and/or weekends
_PRIMARY DUTY LOCATION_ : Salisbury, Maryland
_TELEWORK ELIGIBILITY_ : This position is not suitable for telework.
_BARGAINING UNIT POSITION_ : This is a bargaining unit position.
_INCENTIVES_ : Recruitment incentives, relocation incentives, and relocation expenses ARE NOT authorized for this position.
The incumbent serves as Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor on the multidisciplinary team that is located in a community-based Vet Center that provides Veterans with community outreach, counseling, therapy, treatment and direct services and referral to VA and community resources and community education regarding the problems and needs of the Veteran. The incumbent maintains an office in the Vet Center. Incumbent will work in cooperative collaboration with other team members and with professionals, volunteers and others in VA facilities and community agencies to help Veterans recognize and resolve their problems and needs.
The counseling and therapeutic services provided by the Vet Center range from routine to complex and include suicide prevention, crisis intervention, short- and long-term treatment with clients exhibiting post-traumatic stress disorder, other psychiatric disorders and/or readjustment problems. Clients encountered and problems exhibited necessitates a variety of psychological, rehabilitation, marriage and family counseling and mental health techniques including, but not limited to, individual, group, conjoint, vocational, educational, substance abuse and readjustment counseling. Incumbent must possess a high degree of clinical skill, including the unique skills needed to work with Veterans and the significant others and to supervise and to provide consultation to professionals providing clinical services. Incumbent must possess the capability to perform administrative tasks required in the community-based office of a program with a unique administrative structure and a variety of formal and informal working relationships with a wide range of VA facilities and community organizations.
The Licensed Professional Counselor (LPMHC) in RCS serves as a member of a multi-disciplinary Vet Center team and is responsible for coordinating and providing family counseling services in the Vet Center. The LPMHC conducts assessment interviews, develops treatment plans and provides treatment to eligible Veterans and their families. Treatment modalities may include crisis intervention as well as both short and long-term services. The LPMHC may refer clients to other programs and professionals to include the VA Medical Center or Outpatient Clinic. Participates in and provides consultation to other team members; participates in conjoint emergency treatment with medical facility mental health personnel.
__Basic Requirements__
_U.S. Citizenship._ _ Non-citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy ._
_
_ _English Language Proficiency -_ _LPMHC must be proficient in spoken and written English._
__
_Education._ _Hold a master's degree in mental health 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; and Marriage and Family Therapy. A doctoral degree in mental health counseling may not be substituted for the master's degree in mental health counseling. _
_Licensure._ _Persons hired or reassigned to LPMHC positions in the GS-101 series in VHA must hold a full, current, and unrestricted license to independently practice mental health counseling, which includes diagnosis and treatment._
__GRADE DETERMINATIONS__
_CREDITABLE
Experience: To be creditable, experience must be master's degree and have required the use of knowledge, skills, and abilities, and other characteristics associated with current Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor practice. _
_PLEASE IDENTIFY, IN YOUR RESUME, WHERE EACH KSA IS IDENTIFIED; SEE BELOW- GS-11 SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE. _
_IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC. WE MAY NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE_
_ _
_ _
_SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE_ __
_(1) Experience. In addition to meeting the basic requirements, applicants must have the entry level grade which is directly related to the position to be filled. _
1.Ability to engage in information gathering, problem identification, diagnosis, treatment planning, implementation, evaluation and follow-up.
2.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.
3.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.
4.Ability to use a wide variety of individual, group, or family counseling interventions; demonstrates sensitivity to diversity and possesses multicultural counseling skills.
5.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.
6.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.
7.Knowledge and understanding of existing relevant statutes, case laws, ethical codes, and regulations affecting professional practice of counseling.
8.Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with people from varied backgrounds.
In addition to meeting the basis requirement, applicants must have the equivalent of 1 year of post-master's degree mental health counseling experience comparable to the next lower level (GS-9) which is directly related to the position to be filled._ _
_(1)_ __ _Experience._ _In addition to meeting the basic requirements, applicants must have the equivalent of 1 year of creditable experience comparable to the next lower level (GS-9), which is directly related to the position to be filled. In addition, this experience must include the potential to acquire the assignments designated by an asterisk ( ) below:_
1. _Ability to make professional evaluations, decisions, and recommendation for treatment planning and implementation._
2. _Advanced knowledge and mastery of the fundamentals of the counseling process which includes defining patient/family problems and maintaining an effective counseling relationship. _
3. _Ability to provide subject matter consultation to colleagues and students 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._
4. _Ability to provide complex crisis intervention and stabilization to patients who are in psychological distress. _
5. _Ability to establish goals/treatment through a collaborative process with the patient utilizing advanced counseling skills, including evidenced-based practices and screening/assessment._
6. _Ability to use a wide variety of individual, group, or familial counseling interventions; demonstrates sensitivity to diversity and possesses multicultural counseling skills. _
7. _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. _
8. _Ability to develop and deliver psycho-education groups that include life skills, family support, and community integration._
References: VA Handbook 5005/50, Part II, Appendix G43, Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor , dated September 28,2010, and OPM Group Coverage Qualification Standard, Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor Series; available in the local Human Resources Office.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: It is VA policy to ensure that all selected applicants and employed personnel are physically, mentally and emotionally fit to perform the duties of the position to which assigned. A pre-placement physical examination is required for all full-time, part-time and intermittent employees identified by VA Directive and Handbook 5019. The pre-placement physical examination shall be completed prior to appointment to determine the physical and mental fitness for candidates for appointment in VA. The examination will be concerned with the mental and physical ability of the applicant to satisfactorily perform the duties of the proposed assignment and will include requisite laboratory and other screening as required by Federal regulatory agencies.
NONQUALIFYING EXPERIENCE
License Professional Mental Health Counselor experience obtained prior to completion of the requirements for the master's degree is __not__qualifying.
__VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE
Appropriate credit will be given for voluntary participation in community, social service, and similar activities.
__BASIS OF RATING
Your rating will be based on the quality of your relevant experience (including voluntary experience), education, training, and awards as reflected in the application.
APPLICANTS PLEASE NOTE: Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications (particularly positions with a positive education requirement). Therefore, applicants must report only attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Applicants can verify accreditation at the following website:
. All education claimed by applicants will be verified by the appointing agency accordingly. 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.
VETERANS' PREFERENCE: When applying for Federal Jobs, eligible Veterans should claim preference on the Occupational Questionnaire in the section provided _and_ provide a legible copy of your DD214(s) and/or documentation related to your active duty service which shows dates of service, character of service (honorable, general, etc.), or dates of impending separation.
SELECTIVE SERVICE: If you are a male applicant who was born after 12/31/59 and are required to register under the Military Selective Service Act, the Defense Authorization Act of 1986 requires that you be registered or you are not eligible for appointment in this /
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT: (Failure to comply may be grounds for withdrawal of an offer of employment or dismissal after appointment)
Applicants must be citizens of the United States, and be at least 16 years of age as of the closing date.
Applicants tentatively selected for certain designated positions may be subject to a random drug screening for illegal drug use. Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment.
New Appointees will be subject to a background investigation to determine suitability.
Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must certify at the time of appointment that they have registered with the Selective Service system or are exempt for having to do so under Selective Service law.
Applicants must not be listed on the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Office of Inspector General Sanctions database.
Applicants selected for positions through this announcement may be subject to a one year probationary period.
Public Law 95-201 requires that persons appointed to direct patient-care positions must possess the required basic proficiency in spoken and written English.
Your application, r sum and/or supporting documentation will be verified. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect consideration for employment. You may also be evaluated based upon the question responses you provide during a structured interview. In responding to structured interview questions you should be sure to cite specific examples of experience, explain exactly what you did, and the outcome.
If you cannot apply online:
1.View and print the occupational questionnaire from the How to Apply section of the job opportunity announcement.
2.Print and complete the 1203-FX form to provide your responses to the occupational .
If the vacancy announcement requests any narrative responses, you must address these on a separate piece of paper.
3.Submit all documents identified under the Required Documents section of the job opportunity announcement and the applicantchecklist.
4.Fax the completed 1203-FX form along with all supporting documents to . Your 1203-FX form must be placed on top of all materials being faxed and will serve as a cover page for your fax transmission.
PLEASE NOTE:
The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (EST) on the closing date of the announcement to receive consideration.
Keep a copy of your fax receipt in case verification is needed.
The numbering on the 1203-FX will not match the Assessment Questionnaire. Section 25 of the Occupational Questionnaire restarts with number one, so when entering your responses please continue regardless of number sequence.
Applicants are responsible for ensuring their responses are transferred accurately.
If you applied online but are unable to upload supporting documents:
1.Print and complete the Supporting Documents Fax cover
2.Use the Vacancy ID # from the job opportunity announcement. You must use this fax cover sheet in order for your documents to be matched with your online application.
3.Submit all documents identified under the Required Documents section of the vacancy announcement and the applicantchecklist.
4.Fax the completed cover sheet along with all supporting documents to . Your fax cover sheet must be placed on top of all materials being faxed.
PLESAE NOTE:
Keep a copy of your fax receipt in case verification is needed.
Your Supporting Documents Fax cover page should include the Vacancy Identification Number identified in the vacancy announcement (Example: 123456)
Your Supporting Documents Fax cover page should provide your Social Security Number and full name in the spaces provided or we will not be able to associate your document(s) with the rest of your application.
You may submit multiple documents for the same vacancy announcement using one cover page.
Faxed documents may take 2-3 business days to process. Faxed documents submitted with missing information will not be processed.
The following will prevent your documents from being processed:
Not using the 1203-FX or cover sheet mentioned above.
Missing, incomplete, or invalid Vacancy Identification Number
Missing or incomplete Social Security Number or name
NOTE: Your resume or any other written format you choose to describe your job-related qualifications must include the basic information outlined below:
Personal Information:
Full name, mailing address (with zip code), email address and, day/evening telephone numbers (with area code).
Job title, duties and accomplishments, employer's name and address, salary and supervisor's name and phone number.
For qualifications determinations your resume must contain hours worked per week andthe dates of employment (i.e., month/year to month/year or month/year to present).
If ever employed by the Federal Government, please show the highest Federal civilian grade held, job series, and dates of employment.
Education:
High School name, city, state and zip code, date of diploma or GED.
Colleges and/or Universities attended along with the city, state and zip code.
Major field(s) of study.
Semester/Credit hours earned and grade point average.
It is your responsibility, as the applicant, to verify that information in your resume and supporting documents, whether uploaded or faxed, are received, legible and accurate. You may do so by reviewing your Application Status in USAJOBS, ensuring you have successful fax transmission (if applicable), etc.
All applicants are required to submit each of the following supporting document type(s):
_1._ _REQUIRED DOCUMENT:_ _Resume or CV -_
_2._ _REQUIRED DOCUMENT:_ _OF306 - Declaration of Federal Employment
_3. VA Form 10-2850c - Application for Associated Health Occupations_
_4. Occupational Questionnaire online, or fax submission; do not complete both _
_5.Other (if applicable):Proof of current certification, licensure or registration; college transcripts(documenting conferral date); proof of US Citizenship (Naturalization Documentation)_
_Applicants may also submit the following supporting document type(s), which may not be required for all applicants:_
For prior military service: DD 214, SF 15, other Veteran documentation. Please submit a legible copy of your DD214(s) and/or documentation related to your active duty service which shows dates of service, character of service (honorable, general, etc.), or dates of impending separation.
If you are a Naturalized Citizen: Please submit proof of US Citizenship (Naturalization Documentation or US Passport)
For current or prior federal service: include a copy of your latest SF50 - Notification of Personnel Action; listing position, grade/step, location, and salary (Non-award).
For Current VA Employees: please consider including a copy of your latest Performance Appraisal -and- be certain to include a copy of your latest SF50 - Notification of Personnel Action; listing position, grade/step, location, and salary (Non-award).
National Service: Documentation to support National Service experience (e.g. DOS- Description of Service Letter provided by organization)
Other: You are welcome to submit a cover letter, letters of recommendation, awards, etc.
Please use this checklist to make sure you have included other documents required for your application, such as a copy of your transcript (if using education to qualify), documentation to support Veterans Preference claims, or ICTAP/CTAP documentation (for displaced Federal employees). You will not be contacted for additional information.
National Service Programs (e.g., volunteer experience): The VA encourages those with valuable National Service to apply for Federal positions. 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; religious; 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.
Veterans' Preference: When applying for Federal Jobs, eligible Veterans should claim preference on the Occupational Questionnaire in the section provided and provide a legible copy of your DD214(s) and/or documentation related to your active duty service which shows dates of service, character of service (honorable, general, etc.), or 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 Veterans Preference with required proof as stated on the form. For more information, please review the information for disabled Veterans in the application checklistor visit .
_Faxing Applications or Supporting Documents_ :
You are encouraged to apply online. Applying online will allow you to review and track the status of your application. If you are unable to apply online or unable to upload your supporting documents to your online application, follow the directions located at the following site: Fax Options . The Vacancy ID of the job opportunity announcement is 1191864 .
NOTE: If you applied online and your application is complete, do not fax the paper application (1203-FX) as this will overwrite your prior online responses and may result in you being found ineligible.
After we receive your complete application package (including any required documents), your qualifications will be reviewed to decide if you meet the basic requirements. You will be notified when this decision is made.
VA offers a comprehensive benefits package. This link provides is an overview of the benefits currently .
Receiving Service Credit for 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. VA may offer newly-appointed Federal employees credit for their job-related non-federal experience or active duty uniformed military service. This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave.
This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.
This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status.Estimated Salary: $20 to $28 per hour based on qualifications.
Department Of Veterans Affairs
United States Citizens Excepted Service Permanent Full Time Vacancy Identification Number (VIN) 1238951
THIS ANNOUNCEMENT IS CONCURRENCE WITH H15-9-1239031; ONLY ONE SELECTION WILL BE MADE
WHO WE ARE: We are people who take great pride and deep satisfaction in providing America's veterans with the best clinical care, the most innovative technology, and the most comprehensive array of benefits America has to offer.
MISSION& VISION: To care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow and his orphan.-Abraham Lincoln
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.
Come join our team and get pure job satisfaction, while caring for those who have served (or are currently serving) our countryour nation's Veterans.
The Cambridge VA Outpatient Clinic is one of five community based outpatient clinics within the VA Maryland Health Care System. It provides exceptional health care services coordinated by experienced and compassionate staff giving personalized attention to the veterans they serve. In downtown Cambridge, you'll find old-fashioned Chesapeake charm comes with a fun, contemporary touch. Come see for yourself why Downtown Cambridge is the Eastern Shore's next big thing.
Top 5 reasons YOU should choose a career with VA:
1. A premium benefits package
2. A fulfilling and challenging work environment
3. Work where you want to live
4. On-the-job growth and advancement
5. To discover the career you want, for the future you deserve
Be a member of a team providing compassionate healthcare to veterans. We are an employer of choice who is a center of excellence in patient care, education and research. We value trust, respect, commitment, compassion, and excellence; we value you.
Go to / for more information on the Department of Veterans / for more information on the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Must pass pre-employment examination Must be proficient in written and spoken English Designated and-or Random Drug Testing required Background and-or Security Investigation required Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959. Degree must be accredited by CACREP at the graduation Licensure, Certification, or Registration Required
THIS ANNOUNCEMENT IS CONCURRENCE WITH H15-9-1239031; ONLY ONE SELECTION WILL BE MADE
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-11. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is GS-11. The Professional Standards Boards (a peer review group) will review the selected candidate's qualifications and recommend the grade and step at which approved for the selected candidate will be placed. The salary is based on the grade and step approved for the selected candidate.
_TOUR OF DUTY_ : This position is full time: Monday- Friday 8:00am-4:00pm; Occasional evenings and/or weekends
_PRIMARY DUTY LOCATION_ : Salisbury, Maryland
_TELEWORK ELIGIBILITY_ : This position is not suitable for telework.
_BARGAINING UNIT POSITION_ : This is a bargaining unit position.
_INCENTIVES_ : Recruitment incentives, relocation incentives, and relocation expenses ARE NOT authorized for this position.
The incumbent serves as Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor on the multidisciplinary team that is located in a community-based Vet Center that provides Veterans with community outreach, counseling, therapy, treatment and direct services and referral to VA and community resources and community education regarding the problems and needs of the Veteran. The incumbent maintains an office in the Vet Center. Incumbent will work in cooperative collaboration with other team members and with professionals, volunteers and others in VA facilities and community agencies to help Veterans recognize and resolve their problems and needs.
The counseling and therapeutic services provided by the Vet Center range from routine to complex and include suicide prevention, crisis intervention, short- and long-term treatment with clients exhibiting post-traumatic stress disorder, other psychiatric disorders and/or readjustment problems. Clients encountered and problems exhibited necessitates a variety of psychological, rehabilitation, marriage and family counseling and mental health techniques including, but not limited to, individual, group, conjoint, vocational, educational, substance abuse and readjustment counseling. Incumbent must possess a high degree of clinical skill, including the unique skills needed to work with Veterans and the significant others and to supervise and to provide consultation to professionals providing clinical services. Incumbent must possess the capability to perform administrative tasks required in the community-based office of a program with a unique administrative structure and a variety of formal and informal working relationships with a wide range of VA facilities and community organizations.
The Licensed Professional Counselor (LPMHC) in RCS serves as a member of a multi-disciplinary Vet Center team and is responsible for coordinating and providing family counseling services in the Vet Center. The LPMHC conducts assessment interviews, develops treatment plans and provides treatment to eligible Veterans and their families. Treatment modalities may include crisis intervention as well as both short and long-term services. The LPMHC may refer clients to other programs and professionals to include the VA Medical Center or Outpatient Clinic. Participates in and provides consultation to other team members; participates in conjoint emergency treatment with medical facility mental health personnel.
__Basic Requirements__
_U.S. Citizenship._ _ Non-citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy ._
_
_ _English Language Proficiency -_ _LPMHC must be proficient in spoken and written English._
__
_Education._ _Hold a master's degree in mental health 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; and Marriage and Family Therapy. A doctoral degree in mental health counseling may not be substituted for the master's degree in mental health counseling. _
_Licensure._ _Persons hired or reassigned to LPMHC positions in the GS-101 series in VHA must hold a full, current, and unrestricted license to independently practice mental health counseling, which includes diagnosis and treatment._
__GRADE DETERMINATIONS__
_CREDITABLE
Experience: To be creditable, experience must be master's degree and have required the use of knowledge, skills, and abilities, and other characteristics associated with current Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor practice. _
_PLEASE IDENTIFY, IN YOUR RESUME, WHERE EACH KSA IS IDENTIFIED; SEE BELOW- GS-11 SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE. _
_IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC. WE MAY NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE_
_ _
_ _
_SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE_ __
_(1) Experience. In addition to meeting the basic requirements, applicants must have the entry level grade which is directly related to the position to be filled. _
1.Ability to engage in information gathering, problem identification, diagnosis, treatment planning, implementation, evaluation and follow-up.
2.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.
3.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.
4.Ability to use a wide variety of individual, group, or family counseling interventions; demonstrates sensitivity to diversity and possesses multicultural counseling skills.
5.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.
6.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.
7.Knowledge and understanding of existing relevant statutes, case laws, ethical codes, and regulations affecting professional practice of counseling.
8.Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with people from varied backgrounds.
In addition to meeting the basis requirement, applicants must have the equivalent of 1 year of post-master's degree mental health counseling experience comparable to the next lower level (GS-9) which is directly related to the position to be filled._ _
_(1)_ __ _Experience._ _In addition to meeting the basic requirements, applicants must have the equivalent of 1 year of creditable experience comparable to the next lower level (GS-9), which is directly related to the position to be filled. In addition, this experience must include the potential to acquire the assignments designated by an asterisk ( ) below:_
1. _Ability to make professional evaluations, decisions, and recommendation for treatment planning and implementation._
2. _Advanced knowledge and mastery of the fundamentals of the counseling process which includes defining patient/family problems and maintaining an effective counseling relationship. _
3. _Ability to provide subject matter consultation to colleagues and students 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._
4. _Ability to provide complex crisis intervention and stabilization to patients who are in psychological distress. _
5. _Ability to establish goals/treatment through a collaborative process with the patient utilizing advanced counseling skills, including evidenced-based practices and screening/assessment._
6. _Ability to use a wide variety of individual, group, or familial counseling interventions; demonstrates sensitivity to diversity and possesses multicultural counseling skills. _
7. _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. _
8. _Ability to develop and deliver psycho-education groups that include life skills, family support, and community integration._
References: VA Handbook 5005/50, Part II, Appendix G43, Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor , dated September 28,2010, and OPM Group Coverage Qualification Standard, Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor Series; available in the local Human Resources Office.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: It is VA policy to ensure that all selected applicants and employed personnel are physically, mentally and emotionally fit to perform the duties of the position to which assigned. A pre-placement physical examination is required for all full-time, part-time and intermittent employees identified by VA Directive and Handbook 5019. The pre-placement physical examination shall be completed prior to appointment to determine the physical and mental fitness for candidates for appointment in VA. The examination will be concerned with the mental and physical ability of the applicant to satisfactorily perform the duties of the proposed assignment and will include requisite laboratory and other screening as required by Federal regulatory agencies.
NONQUALIFYING EXPERIENCE
License Professional Mental Health Counselor experience obtained prior to completion of the requirements for the master's degree is __not__qualifying.
__VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE
Appropriate credit will be given for voluntary participation in community, social service, and similar activities.
__BASIS OF RATING
Your rating will be based on the quality of your relevant experience (including voluntary experience), education, training, and awards as reflected in the application.
APPLICANTS PLEASE NOTE: Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications (particularly positions with a positive education requirement). Therefore, applicants must report only attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Applicants can verify accreditation at the following website:
. All education claimed by applicants will be verified by the appointing agency accordingly. 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.
VETERANS' PREFERENCE: When applying for Federal Jobs, eligible Veterans should claim preference on the Occupational Questionnaire in the section provided _and_ provide a legible copy of your DD214(s) and/or documentation related to your active duty service which shows dates of service, character of service (honorable, general, etc.), or dates of impending separation.
SELECTIVE SERVICE: If you are a male applicant who was born after 12/31/59 and are required to register under the Military Selective Service Act, the Defense Authorization Act of 1986 requires that you be registered or you are not eligible for appointment in this /
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT: (Failure to comply may be grounds for withdrawal of an offer of employment or dismissal after appointment)
Applicants must be citizens of the United States, and be at least 16 years of age as of the closing date.
Applicants tentatively selected for certain designated positions may be subject to a random drug screening for illegal drug use. Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment.
New Appointees will be subject to a background investigation to determine suitability.
Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must certify at the time of appointment that they have registered with the Selective Service system or are exempt for having to do so under Selective Service law.
Applicants must not be listed on the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Office of Inspector General Sanctions database.
Applicants selected for positions through this announcement may be subject to a one year probationary period.
Public Law 95-201 requires that persons appointed to direct patient-care positions must possess the required basic proficiency in spoken and written English.
Your application, r sum and/or supporting documentation will be verified. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect consideration for employment. You may also be evaluated based upon the question responses you provide during a structured interview. In responding to structured interview questions you should be sure to cite specific examples of experience, explain exactly what you did, and the outcome.
If you cannot apply online:
1.View and print the occupational questionnaire from the How to Apply section of the job opportunity announcement.
2.Print and complete the 1203-FX form to provide your responses to the occupational .
If the vacancy announcement requests any narrative responses, you must address these on a separate piece of paper.
3.Submit all documents identified under the Required Documents section of the job opportunity announcement and the applicantchecklist.
4.Fax the completed 1203-FX form along with all supporting documents to . Your 1203-FX form must be placed on top of all materials being faxed and will serve as a cover page for your fax transmission.
PLEASE NOTE:
The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (EST) on the closing date of the announcement to receive consideration.
Keep a copy of your fax receipt in case verification is needed.
The numbering on the 1203-FX will not match the Assessment Questionnaire. Section 25 of the Occupational Questionnaire restarts with number one, so when entering your responses please continue regardless of number sequence.
Applicants are responsible for ensuring their responses are transferred accurately.
If you applied online but are unable to upload supporting documents:
1.Print and complete the Supporting Documents Fax cover
2.Use the Vacancy ID # from the job opportunity announcement. You must use this fax cover sheet in order for your documents to be matched with your online application.
3.Submit all documents identified under the Required Documents section of the vacancy announcement and the applicantchecklist.
4.Fax the completed cover sheet along with all supporting documents to . Your fax cover sheet must be placed on top of all materials being faxed.
PLESAE NOTE:
Keep a copy of your fax receipt in case verification is needed.
Your Supporting Documents Fax cover page should include the Vacancy Identification Number identified in the vacancy announcement (Example: 123456)
Your Supporting Documents Fax cover page should provide your Social Security Number and full name in the spaces provided or we will not be able to associate your document(s) with the rest of your application.
You may submit multiple documents for the same vacancy announcement using one cover page.
Faxed documents may take 2-3 business days to process. Faxed documents submitted with missing information will not be processed.
The following will prevent your documents from being processed:
Not using the 1203-FX or cover sheet mentioned above.
Missing, incomplete, or invalid Vacancy Identification Number
Missing or incomplete Social Security Number or name
NOTE: Your resume or any other written format you choose to describe your job-related qualifications must include the basic information outlined below:
Personal Information:
Full name, mailing address (with zip code), email address and, day/evening telephone numbers (with area code).
Job title, duties and accomplishments, employer's name and address, salary and supervisor's name and phone number.
For qualifications determinations your resume must contain hours worked per week andthe dates of employment (i.e., month/year to month/year or month/year to present).
If ever employed by the Federal Government, please show the highest Federal civilian grade held, job series, and dates of employment.
Education:
High School name, city, state and zip code, date of diploma or GED.
Colleges and/or Universities attended along with the city, state and zip code.
Major field(s) of study.
Semester/Credit hours earned and grade point average.
It is your responsibility, as the applicant, to verify that information in your resume and supporting documents, whether uploaded or faxed, are received, legible and accurate. You may do so by reviewing your Application Status in USAJOBS, ensuring you have successful fax transmission (if applicable), etc.
All applicants are required to submit each of the following supporting document type(s):
_1._ _REQUIRED DOCUMENT:_ _Resume or CV -_
_2._ _REQUIRED DOCUMENT:_ _OF306 - Declaration of Federal Employment
_3. VA Form 10-2850c - Application for Associated Health Occupations_
_4. Occupational Questionnaire online, or fax submission; do not complete both _
_5.Other (if applicable):Proof of current certification, licensure or registration; college transcripts(documenting conferral date); proof of US Citizenship (Naturalization Documentation)_
_Applicants may also submit the following supporting document type(s), which may not be required for all applicants:_
For prior military service: DD 214, SF 15, other Veteran documentation. Please submit a legible copy of your DD214(s) and/or documentation related to your active duty service which shows dates of service, character of service (honorable, general, etc.), or dates of impending separation.
If you are a Naturalized Citizen: Please submit proof of US Citizenship (Naturalization Documentation or US Passport)
For current or prior federal service: include a copy of your latest SF50 - Notification of Personnel Action; listing position, grade/step, location, and salary (Non-award).
For Current VA Employees: please consider including a copy of your latest Performance Appraisal -and- be certain to include a copy of your latest SF50 - Notification of Personnel Action; listing position, grade/step, location, and salary (Non-award).
National Service: Documentation to support National Service experience (e.g. DOS- Description of Service Letter provided by organization)
Other: You are welcome to submit a cover letter, letters of recommendation, awards, etc.
Please use this checklist to make sure you have included other documents required for your application, such as a copy of your transcript (if using education to qualify), documentation to support Veterans Preference claims, or ICTAP/CTAP documentation (for displaced Federal employees). You will not be contacted for additional information.
National Service Programs (e.g., volunteer experience): The VA encourages those with valuable National Service to apply for Federal positions. 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; religious; 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.
Veterans' Preference: When applying for Federal Jobs, eligible Veterans should claim preference on the Occupational Questionnaire in the section provided and provide a legible copy of your DD214(s) and/or documentation related to your active duty service which shows dates of service, character of service (honorable, general, etc.), or 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 Veterans Preference with required proof as stated on the form. For more information, please review the information for disabled Veterans in the application checklistor visit .
_Faxing Applications or Supporting Documents_ :
You are encouraged to apply online. Applying online will allow you to review and track the status of your application. If you are unable to apply online or unable to upload your supporting documents to your online application, follow the directions located at the following site: Fax Options . The Vacancy ID of the job opportunity announcement is 1191864 .
NOTE: If you applied online and your application is complete, do not fax the paper application (1203-FX) as this will overwrite your prior online responses and may result in you being found ineligible.
After we receive your complete application package (including any required documents), your qualifications will be reviewed to decide if you meet the basic requirements. You will be notified when this decision is made.
VA offers a comprehensive benefits package. This link provides is an overview of the benefits currently .
Receiving Service Credit for 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. VA may offer newly-appointed Federal employees credit for their job-related non-federal experience or active duty uniformed military service. This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave.
This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.
This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status.Estimated Salary: $20 to $28 per hour based on qualifications.
|
|
 | |
