Addiction Therapist

About the role

HUD-VASH is an intensive case management program for chronically homeless Veterans aimed at providing psychosocial services to Veterans while residing in stable housing through HUD's Section 8 voucher system.

The incumbent in this position functions as the Medical Center's Liaison/Case Manager for Central California's VAMC's Healthcare for Homeless Veterans Program Department of Housing and Urban Development / VA Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH).

What you will do

• GS-5 a.) Evidence-Based Psychotherapy - The AT will seek VA approved training and certification to provide competent evidence-based interventions for a variety of mental health and addictive disorder diagnoses.
• Psychotherapy may be needed in individual, group, couple, or family formats, as meet the needs of patient population. b.) Psychosocial Assessment - The AT will develop an evaluation/assessment of the Veteran's substance use, family, economic, community, and psychosocial support systems.
• Assessments will reflect a skillful and comprehensive view of the Veteran's current state of functioning and support.
• Clinical interview skills will be used to gather and document data that analyzes and interprets relevant strengths and needs directly related to patient health, care planning, treatment, education, internal/external supports, and case management needs in order to optimize the Veteran's functional status and to help ensure that the Veteran is able to safely live in the least restrictive environment possible.
• The Veteran, family members and significant others are involved in this process, whenever possible.
• ATs utilize assessment and diagnostic evaluations to develop an individualized treatment plan; and incorporate assessments and psychological testing results from physical exams and urine toxicology data for use by a multidisciplinary treatment team to develop a treatment plan.
• GS-7 a.) Evidence-Based Psychotherapy - The AT will seek VA approved training and certification to provide competent evidence-based interventions for a variety of mental health and addictive disorder diagnoses.
• Psychotherapy may be needed in individual, group, couple, or family formats, as meet the needs of patient population. b.) Psychosocial Assessment - The AT will develop an evaluation/assessment of the Veteran's substance use, family, economic, community, and psychosocial support systems.
• Assessments will reflect a skillful and comprehensive view of the Veteran's current state of functioning and support.
• Clinical interview skills will be used to gather and document data that analyzes and interprets relevant strengths and needs directly related to patient health, care planning, treatment, education, internal/external supports, and case management needs in order to optimize the Veteran's functional status and to help ensure that the Veteran is able to safely live in the least restrictive environment possible.
• The Veteran, family members and significant others are involved in this process, whenever possible.
• ATs utilize assessment and diagnostic evaluations to develop an individualized treatment plan; and incorporate assessments and psychological testing results from physical exams and urine toxicology data for use by a multidisciplinary treatment team to develop a treatment plan.
• GS-9 a.) Evidence-Based Psychotherapy - The AT will seek VA approved training and certification to provide competent evidence-based interventions for a variety of mental health and addictive disorder diagnoses.
• Psychotherapy may be needed in individual, group, couple, or family formats, as meet the needs of patient population. b.) Psychosocial Assessment - The AT will develop an evaluation/assessment of the Veteran's substance use, family, economic, community, and psychosocial support systems.
• Assessments will reflect a skillful and comprehensive view of the Veteran's current state of functioning and support.
• Clinical interview skills will be used to gather and document data that analyzes and interprets relevant strengths and needs directly related to patient health, care planning, treatment, education, internal/external supports, and case management needs in order to optimize the Veteran's functional status and to help ensure that the Veteran is able to safely live in the least restrictive environment possible.
• The Veteran, family members and significant others are involved in this process, whenever possible.
• ATs utilize assessment and diagnostic evaluations to develop an individualized treatment plan; and incorporate assessments and psychological testing results from physical exams and urine toxicology data for use by a multidisciplinary treatment team to develop a treatment plan.
• Work Schedule: 8:00am - 4:30pm Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
• Functional Statement #: 08944F, 08945F, 08946F Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized

Requirements

• 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.
• Subject to background/security investigation.
• Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process.
• Acceptable form(s) of identification will be required to complete pre-employment requirements (***).
• Effective May 7, 2025, driver's licenses or state-issued dentification cards that are not REAL ID compliant cannot be utilized as an acceptable form of identification for employment.
• 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).
• Complete all application requirements detailed in the "Required Documents" section of this announcement.
• As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 1 or 2-year trial period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest.
• In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider: your performance and conduct; the needs and interests of the agency; whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service.
• Upon completion of your trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.

Education

GS-09. (1) Experience. One year of creditable experience equivalent to the next lower grade.

(2) Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs). In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs: (a) Knowledge of coexisting medical or other mental health disorders as interrelated to SUDs. (b) Ability to complete assessments of substance use disorders, treatment planning and continued care planning.

(c) Ability to develop and maintain effective working or therapeutic relationships with multidisciplinary staff, Veterans and their families. (3) Assignment. This is the full performance-level assignment for ATs.

Although the ATs are dependent providers and perform work under guidance of LMATs, ATs at this level perform intake/assessments using a biopsychosocial history which could include urine toxicology/breathalyzer data and/or collateral information. They provide case management and counseling on issues that involve substance use.

ATs conduct and utilize designated measurement tools for baseline and follow-up care. They assist with the utilization of the assessment and in collaboration with the patient, create an individualized treatment plan and continuing care plans. ATs provide addiction-related psychoeducation for individuals/groups/couples 9 and evidence-based psychosocial interventions.

They provide crisis intervention to patients in psychological distress consistent with VA national policy and within the scope of practice to include engaging licensed mental health clinicians when clinically indicated.

ATs are part of the treatment team that includes licensed independent practitioners that formulate plans during the continuum of care and, at discharge, and arrange referrals to agencies and organizations as needed.

Preferred Experience: 2 years of experience as an addiction therapist Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit *** The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-09. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-05 to GS-09.

Physical Requirements: See VA Directive and Handbook 5019. 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: ***

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: ***

How you will be evaluated

IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC.

WE MAY NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE.

Your application, resume, 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.

Documents you must provide

• To complete your application, please use the following link *** to download the standard Clinical Resume Document.
• This one-page document does not need to be modified and must be uploaded into the two-page restricted 'Resume' document upload field.
• Your full resume/CV may be uploaded without page limitation into the 'Other' document upload field.
• The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position.
• Please 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 (Schedule A) Disability Letter (VA) License Other (1) PCS Orders Professional Certification Resume Separation Notice (RIF) 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.
• Veterans' preference does not apply for internal or other current permanent Federal agency employees.

Benefits

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.

What to expect next

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.

Additional information

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. 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. During the application process you may have an option to opt-in to make your resume available to hiring managers in the agency who have similar positions.

Opting in does not impact your application for this announcement, nor does it guarantee further consideration for additional positions. 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. 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.

Under the Fair Chance to Compete Act, the Department of Veterans Affairs prohibits requesting an applicant's criminal history prior to accepting a tentative job offer. For more information about the Act and the complaint process, visit Human Resources and Administration/Operations, Security, and Preparedness (HRA/OSP) at The Fair Chance Act.