Social Worker -Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Program

Summary

This position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) – a student loan payment reimbursement program. Candidates must meet specific individual eligibility requirements in accordance with VHA policy and submit an EDRP application within four months of appointment. The award amount (up to $200,000) and eligibility period (one to five years) are determined by the VHA Education Loan Repayment Services program office after a complete review of the application.

• United States citizenship is required; non‑citizens may only be appointed when qualified citizens cannot be recruited in accordance with VA policy.
• Proficiency in spoken and written English is required for all social workers per VA Handbook 5005.
• A master’s degree in social work from a school fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) is required. Graduates of schools in candidacy status are not eligible until the school is fully accredited.
• A doctoral degree in social work is not accepted in lieu of a master’s degree.
• Licensure:
  Persons hired or reassigned to social worker positions in the GS‑0185 series must hold a state license or certification to independently practice social work at the master’s level. Exceptions may be granted for GS‑9 grade level candidates who are otherwise qualified, pending completion of state prerequisites. GS‑11 and above require licensure or certification.
• Licensure requirements are waived only for GS‑9. At appointment, the supervisor will provide written requirements for licensure or certification, including deadlines and consequences for non‑compliance.
• Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs):
  • Utilize a veteran‑centric approach in interventions, counseling, and case management.
  • Assess psychosocial functioning of veterans and families; formulate and implement treatment plans.
  • Implement supportive, problem‑solving, or crisis intervention techniques.
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships and communication with clients, staff, and community agencies.
  • Apply fundamental knowledge of medical and mental health diagnoses, treatments, medications, and terminology.
• GS‑11 qualifications:
  One year of post‑MSW experience in healthcare or related settings, or a doctoral degree in social work in lieu of that experience. Licensure or certification at the independent practice level is required.
• Preferred Experience:
  
  Experience in mental health is preferred.
• Physical Requirements:
  
  Candidates will participate in a pre‑employment examination or evaluation as part of the hiring process.
• Physical demands and environmental factors may be addressed at the time of evaluation or examination.
• Reference: For more information on the qualification standard, visit https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). Standards/.

• Provide direct clinical care and case management mental health services to veterans with mental health, substance use, and dual diagnosis conditions in the Mental Health Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Program (MH RRTP).
• Perform behavior and mental health biopsychosocial assessments.
• Make sound professional judgments regarding clinical impressions, treatment approaches, and treatment planning.
• Coordinate with internal and external professionals to ensure appropriate transitions of care and necessary treatments for veterans.
• Maintain knowledge of VA and veteran’s benefits and services, community resources, and referral processes.
• Advocate to overcome barriers to access care or services when in the best interests of the veteran.
• Engage in goals of care discussions, education, and assistance in completing advance directives and related documentation.
• Assess for signs of abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
• Perform on‑call duties as assigned, including transportation of a veteran if required.
• Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with diverse populations.
• Use computer systems and the internet to communicate with veterans who choose this modality.
• Serve on supervisor‑approved committees, work groups, and task forces at local, VISN, or national levels.
• Attend and participate in all required administrative and clinical meetings.
• Maintain accurate, timely, and complete…