Job Description
Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (BHIP) - EDRP Approved is listed by Veterans Health Administration.
The Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (LPMHC) serves as a core member of the Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (BHIP) within the VA Texas Valley Coastal Bend Health Care System. BHIP is a multi-disciplinary team providing complete, accessible, Veteran-centered mental health care.
The LPMHC conducts assessment interviews, develops treatment plans, and provides evidence-based treatment for a range of mental health conditions, including crisis intervention, intake evaluations, and outreach services.
This role involves individual, group, and family psychotherapy, as well as case management for Veterans with DSM diagnoses, substance abuse, and poly-traumatic injuries. The LPMHC may also have clinical program management responsibilities, overseeing administrative and programmatic resources, and serving on committees.
This position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), offering up to $200,000 in student loan repayment. Work schedule is Monday-Friday, 8 AM-4:30 PM, with ad-hoc telework available. This is not a virtual position.
The work area is ideal for licensed mental health counselors seeking to serve Veterans in a collaborative, interdisciplinary setting.
Salary & Compensation
Salary / Pay Package: $61,409 - $99,835 per year.
Qualification
To qualify for GS-9, you need a master's or doctoral degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling or a related field from a CACREP-accredited program, and a full, current, unrestricted license to practice independently. Applicants pending licensure may be appointed at GS-9 for up to three years. For GS-11, one year of post-master's experience is required.
- U.S. Citizenship required; non-citizens may be appointed only if qualified citizens are not available.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Master's or doctoral degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling, or a related field from a CACREP-accredited program.
- Full, current, unrestricted license to independently practice as a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor, including diagnosis and treatment.
- Applicants pending licensure may be selected at GS-9 with a three-year appointment to complete licensure.
- GS-11 requires one year of post-master's mental health counseling experience demonstrating advanced skills.
- Knowledge of DSM, treatment planning, and evidence-based interventions.
- Ability to serve on an interdisciplinary team and use computer software for documentation and telehealth.
Role Responsibilities
Conduct intake assessments, diagnostic evaluations, and develop treatment plans.
- Provide individual, group, and family psychotherapy using evidence-based modalities.
- Perform crisis intervention and outreach services for Veterans.
- Collaborate with BHIP team members and consult on complex cases.
- May manage clinical programs, including oversight of staff and resources.
- Participate in administrative committees and work groups.
- Teach and mentor staff and students in specialty practice.
- Draft policies and procedures for specialty treatment programs.
How to Apply
Open the USAJOBS announcement and with your USAJOBS/Login.gov account.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire and attach your federal resume and required documents.
- Submit your complete application package by 11:59 PM ET on July 15, 2026.
- Ensure your resume includes all required information; use the standard Clinical Resume Document if needed.
- Monitor your USAJOBS account for status updates and interview notifications.
Additional Information
EDRP approved: up to $200,000 student loan repayment; former participants ineligible.
- Multiple locations: Corpus Christi, Harlingen, Laredo, McAllen, TX.
- Work schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-4:30 PM.
- Ad-hoc telework may be available; this is not a virtual position.
- Relocation/recruitment incentives and PCS not authorized.
- Selective Service Registration required for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Must complete a 1-2 year trial period and meet influenza vaccination requirement.
About Company
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States, providing care to over 9 million Veterans each year. The VA Texas Valley Coastal Bend Health Care System serves Veterans in South Texas with facilities in Corpus Christi, Harlingen, Laredo, and McAllen. This position is part of the Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (BHIP), which delivers complete mental health services through a team-based approach. Working here means joining a public service organization dedicated to improving the well-being of those who have served. Veterans Health Administration is named as the hiring organisation for the Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (BHIP
- EDRP Approved post.
FAQs
What is the role of a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor in BHIP?
The LPMHC provides assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, and psychotherapy for Veterans as part of a multi-disciplinary team, focusing on evidence-based care for mental health conditions.
Where is this LPMHC position located?
The position is with VA Texas Valley Coastal Bend HCS, with locations in Corpus Christi, Harlingen, Laredo, and McAllen, Texas.
What are the education requirements for this GS-9/11 counselor job?
A master's or doctoral degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling or a related field from a CACREP-accredited program is required.
Can I apply if I don't have a license yet?
Yes, applicants pending licensure may be selected at the GS-9 level and given up to three years to complete licensure requirements.
Is this position eligible for student loan repayment?
Yes, this position is EDRP approved, offering up to $200,000 in student loan repayment. Former EDRP participants are ineligible.
What is the application deadline for this VA counselor job?
Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM ET on July 15, 2026.
What documents are required to apply?
You need a federal resume, completed occupational questionnaire, and any supporting documents as specified in the USAJOBS announcement.
What is the work schedule for this BHIP counselor role?
The work schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, with ad-hoc telework available.