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These Addiction Therapists work within the Mental Health Service to provide a range of services including screening, assessment, case management, and counseling services to Veterans with substance use disorders.
This job is open to
Clarification from the agency
ALL US CITIZENS
DIRECT HIRE AUTHORITY: This position is being filled using Direct-Hire Authority (5 CFR 337.201) for this occupation.
Videos
Duties
Duties:
(a) Provide initial intake screenings and assessment of Veterans which incorporate vocational assessment, physical/medical exam information, a complete psychosocial history, and urine toxicology results for use by the multidisciplinary team in developing treatment plans.
(b) Independently assesses and makes recommendations to the treatment team regarding Veterans' eligibility and need for treatment. When there are concerns about eligibility or appropriateness for treatment, they document rationale for decisions to admit or decline admission for services, and:
(c) Develop individualized treatment plans within EHR/MH Suite using measurable treatment goals and objectives, and:
(d) Collaborate and coordinate care across multidisciplinary teams and service as a liaison within the VA health care setting as well as community for necessary medical, mental health, or legal resource needs which arise.
(e) Facilitate psychoeducation and discussion groups designed to educate Veterans on various aspects of chemical dependency.
(f) Provide family psychoeducation and consultation to significant others or family members involved in Veterans' care.
(g) Provided crisis intervention for Veterans in psychological distress (within scope of practice) and coordinate appropriate prevention services and collaboration with Suicide Prevention
(h) Provide individual and group counseling services using behavioral principles and evidence-based methods to treat substance abuse and co-occurring disorders.
(i) In rehabilitation or other program settings, provide initial orientation and education to Veterans regarding standards of behavior, expectations, and plans for evaluating progress.
(j) Conduct pre-discharge assessments (as appropriate to assigned programs) and make recommendations to the treatment team regarding readiness for change.
(k) Provide discharged coordination utilizing facility/community resources to address housing, medical, vocational and ongoing mental health needs.
(l) Maintain knowledge of substance abuse programming and resources within the community and VA (e.g., Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, SMART Recovery) to facilitate Veterans.
(m) In rehabilitation or other program settings, facilitate discharge planning, post rehabilitation placement, and aftercare services through VA and community resources.
(n) Perform additional duties or quality improvement projects assigned or delegated by Mental Health leadership or program/clinic supervisors.
(o) Serve as a collaborator and coordinator of care within VA multidisciplinary teams and serve as a liaison with the VA health care setting and community for necessary medical, mental health, or legal resource needs which arise.
(p) Participate with the multidisciplinary team to ensure compliance with Joint commission/CARF adherence and improvement activities.
(q) Participate in improvement projects as assigned by analyzing problems, interpreting and adapting guidelines from policies, regulations, and precedents in order to make recommended systems improvements.
Work Schedule: Monday Thru Friday - 8:00am -4:30 pm
Telework: Available
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #: 000000
Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized
Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized
Financial Disclosure Report: Not required
Requirements
Conditions of Employment
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.
ADDICTION THERAPIST (LICENSED MASTER'S)
1. BASIC REQUIREMENT. In addition to meeting the basic requirements outlined in Appendix G76, paragraph 3, Basic Requirements, the following additional requirements must also be met to qualify and hold a position as an LMAT:
a. Education.
(1) Hold a master's degree or higher in drug and alcohol studies or related behavioral health field from an accredited college or university. b. Licensure.
Individuals appointed or reassigned to an LMAT position must possess a full, current, and unrestricted license in a jurisdiction for independent practice in the field of Alcohol and Drug Treatment.
(1) Exception. The Secretary or designee may waive the licensure requirement for selectees who are otherwise qualified, pending state acceptance of completion of state prerequisites at the master's level. Licensures can be waived for three years from the date of employment. This exception is allowed on the condition that non-licensed LMATs appointed on this basis provide care only under the clinical supervision of an LMAT from the designated assignments to provide clinical supervision. Non-licensed LMAT applicants who otherwise meet the eligibility requirements may be appointed as LMATs under the authority of 38 U.S.C.§ 7401(3). This exception applies only at the GS-09 entry grade level and individuals may not be promoted/converted until they obtain the required license. For grades/assignments at or above the full performance level, candidates must be licensed at the master's level.
(2) Failure to Obtain Licensure. Prior to the time of appointment, HR Office staff will provide uncertified or unlicensed LMATs, the written requirement to obtain licensure, the date by which the license must be acquired and the consequences for not becoming licensed by the deadline. In all cases, LMATs must actively pursue meeting requirements for licensure starting from the date of their appointment. If LMATs fail to obtain licensure during this time period, their employment may be terminated.
(3) Loss of License. In collaboration with HR Office staff, management officials must immediately relieve employees of the duties and responsibilities associated with the occupation who fail to maintain the required licensure or certification, which may also result in separation from employment.
Grade Determinations: In addition to the basic requirements outlined in paragraph 1 of this sub-appendix and paragraph 3 of
Appendix G76, the following criteria must be met when determining the grade of the candidates:
c. Addiction Therapist (Licensed Master's) GS-09.
(1) Education, License and Experience. The GS-09 grade level is the entry grade level for LMATs who have:
(2) Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs).
In addition to the basic requirements, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs.
d. Addiction Therapist (Licensed Master's) GS-11.
Experience. One year of creditable experience comparable to the next lower grade.
Licensure. Candidates must possess a full, current and unrestricted license in a State for independent practice in the field of Alcohol and Drug Treatment.
NOTE: Applicants who meet the qualifications requirements for an AT at the full performance level, who have a minimum of one year experience at that level and who have obtained the master's degree and license will be qualified at the GS-11 level.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs). In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs:
References: VA Handbook 5005/155, PART II, APPENDIX G76-B
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS- 11. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-09 to GS11.
Education
IMPORTANT: A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education.
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 ac...
These Addiction Therapists work within the Mental Health Service to provide a range of services including screening, assessment, case management, and counseling services to Veterans with substance use disorders.
This job is open to
- The public
U.S. Citizens, Nationals or those who owe allegiance to the U.S.
Clarification from the agency
ALL US CITIZENS
DIRECT HIRE AUTHORITY: This position is being filled using Direct-Hire Authority (5 CFR 337.201) for this occupation.
Videos
Duties
Duties:
(a) Provide initial intake screenings and assessment of Veterans which incorporate vocational assessment, physical/medical exam information, a complete psychosocial history, and urine toxicology results for use by the multidisciplinary team in developing treatment plans.
(b) Independently assesses and makes recommendations to the treatment team regarding Veterans' eligibility and need for treatment. When there are concerns about eligibility or appropriateness for treatment, they document rationale for decisions to admit or decline admission for services, and:
- Ensure Veterans are appropriately informed of alternative service or treatment options available to them (within and outside the VA) or refer to appropriate resources for assistance.
- Ensure Veterans are informed under what circumstances they can seek substance abuse services again in the future.
- Ensure Veterans are provided with resource information and contact information in the event of behavioral crises (e.g., provision of Veteran Crisis Line information, how to seek urgent evaluation or detoxification, etc.).
(c) Develop individualized treatment plans within EHR/MH Suite using measurable treatment goals and objectives, and:
- Document Veterans' strengths, needs, abilities and preferences.
- Incorporates new/relevant information from multidisciplinary team or other assessment sources (e.g., psychological testing).
- Regularly review and update treatment plans to reflect changes and progress.
(d) Collaborate and coordinate care across multidisciplinary teams and service as a liaison within the VA health care setting as well as community for necessary medical, mental health, or legal resource needs which arise.
(e) Facilitate psychoeducation and discussion groups designed to educate Veterans on various aspects of chemical dependency.
(f) Provide family psychoeducation and consultation to significant others or family members involved in Veterans' care.
(g) Provided crisis intervention for Veterans in psychological distress (within scope of practice) and coordinate appropriate prevention services and collaboration with Suicide Prevention
(h) Provide individual and group counseling services using behavioral principles and evidence-based methods to treat substance abuse and co-occurring disorders.
- Complete timely all documentation of services in accordance with facility and treatment program policies and procedures.
- Participate in continuing education to stay current with current literature and best practices in substance abuse treatment, crisis interventions, risk assessment and suicide prevention.
(i) In rehabilitation or other program settings, provide initial orientation and education to Veterans regarding standards of behavior, expectations, and plans for evaluating progress.
(j) Conduct pre-discharge assessments (as appropriate to assigned programs) and make recommendations to the treatment team regarding readiness for change.
(k) Provide discharged coordination utilizing facility/community resources to address housing, medical, vocational and ongoing mental health needs.
(l) Maintain knowledge of substance abuse programming and resources within the community and VA (e.g., Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, SMART Recovery) to facilitate Veterans.
(m) In rehabilitation or other program settings, facilitate discharge planning, post rehabilitation placement, and aftercare services through VA and community resources.
(n) Perform additional duties or quality improvement projects assigned or delegated by Mental Health leadership or program/clinic supervisors.
(o) Serve as a collaborator and coordinator of care within VA multidisciplinary teams and serve as a liaison with the VA health care setting and community for necessary medical, mental health, or legal resource needs which arise.
(p) Participate with the multidisciplinary team to ensure compliance with Joint commission/CARF adherence and improvement activities.
(q) Participate in improvement projects as assigned by analyzing problems, interpreting and adapting guidelines from policies, regulations, and precedents in order to make recommended systems improvements.
Work Schedule: Monday Thru Friday - 8:00am -4:30 pm
Telework: Available
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #: 000000
Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized
Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized
Financial Disclosure Report: Not required
Requirements
Conditions of Employment
- You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job.
- 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.
- 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.
ADDICTION THERAPIST (LICENSED MASTER'S)
1. BASIC REQUIREMENT. In addition to meeting the basic requirements outlined in Appendix G76, paragraph 3, Basic Requirements, the following additional requirements must also be met to qualify and hold a position as an LMAT:
a. Education.
(1) Hold a master's degree or higher in drug and alcohol studies or related behavioral health field from an accredited college or university. b. Licensure.
Individuals appointed or reassigned to an LMAT position must possess a full, current, and unrestricted license in a jurisdiction for independent practice in the field of Alcohol and Drug Treatment.
(1) Exception. The Secretary or designee may waive the licensure requirement for selectees who are otherwise qualified, pending state acceptance of completion of state prerequisites at the master's level. Licensures can be waived for three years from the date of employment. This exception is allowed on the condition that non-licensed LMATs appointed on this basis provide care only under the clinical supervision of an LMAT from the designated assignments to provide clinical supervision. Non-licensed LMAT applicants who otherwise meet the eligibility requirements may be appointed as LMATs under the authority of 38 U.S.C.§ 7401(3). This exception applies only at the GS-09 entry grade level and individuals may not be promoted/converted until they obtain the required license. For grades/assignments at or above the full performance level, candidates must be licensed at the master's level.
(2) Failure to Obtain Licensure. Prior to the time of appointment, HR Office staff will provide uncertified or unlicensed LMATs, the written requirement to obtain licensure, the date by which the license must be acquired and the consequences for not becoming licensed by the deadline. In all cases, LMATs must actively pursue meeting requirements for licensure starting from the date of their appointment. If LMATs fail to obtain licensure during this time period, their employment may be terminated.
(3) Loss of License. In collaboration with HR Office staff, management officials must immediately relieve employees of the duties and responsibilities associated with the occupation who fail to maintain the required licensure or certification, which may also result in separation from employment.
Grade Determinations: In addition to the basic requirements outlined in paragraph 1 of this sub-appendix and paragraph 3 of
Appendix G76, the following criteria must be met when determining the grade of the candidates:
c. Addiction Therapist (Licensed Master's) GS-09.
(1) Education, License and Experience. The GS-09 grade level is the entry grade level for LMATs who have:
- Less than one year of experience post licensure; OR,
- LMATs at the master's level who are graduates not yet licensed at the independent practice (Journey) level. Unlicensed LMATs at the GS-09 grade level must have completed the required education listed in paragraph 1.a. above and are working toward obtaining a full, current, and unrestricted license in a jurisdiction for independent practice in the field of Alcohol and Drug Treatment.
(2) Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs).
In addition to the basic requirements, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs.
- Knowledge of coexisting medical or other mental health disorders and the interrelationship of SUDs.
- Knowledge of basic recovery programs and resources.
- Skill in providing individual and group therapy, including using certain SUD Evidenced-Based Therapy (EBTs).
- Skill in developing and maintaining effective working or therapeutic relationships with multidisciplinary staff, Veterans and their families, and community resources to ensure appropriate referrals.
- Ability to complete the assessment of substance use disorders, treatment/recovery planning and continuing care planning.
- Ability to identify patients who are in psychological distress consistent with VA national policy and within scope of certification and secure appropriate interventions.
d. Addiction Therapist (Licensed Master's) GS-11.
Experience. One year of creditable experience comparable to the next lower grade.
Licensure. Candidates must possess a full, current and unrestricted license in a State for independent practice in the field of Alcohol and Drug Treatment.
NOTE: Applicants who meet the qualifications requirements for an AT at the full performance level, who have a minimum of one year experience at that level and who have obtained the master's degree and license will be qualified at the GS-11 level.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs). In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs:
- Skill to independently complete assessments of substance use disorders, treatment planning and continued care planning.
- Skill to apply the principles, concepts and methods of counseling and therapies used in the treatment of individuals with SUDs.
- Skill to collaborate and consult on medical or other psychiatric disorders as interrelated to SUDs.
- Ability to apply various community-based recovery programs and resources in a treatment plan.
References: VA Handbook 5005/155, PART II, APPENDIX G76-B
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS- 11. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-09 to GS11.
Education
IMPORTANT: A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education.
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 ac...
