The Addiction Therapist (Licensed Master's) (LMAT,) is a member of the tracks, clinics, and treatment teams within R&RS. The addiction therapist performs duties primarily at the Chillicothe VA Medical Center (VAMC) and in associated Community Based Outreach Centers (CBOCs).The Addiction Therapist works with a multi-disciplinary team to provide guidance and support to Veterans in recovery. The incumbent is responsible for providing case management and evidence-based psychotherapy 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. Basic Requirements for Addiction Therapist (AT) and Licensed Masters Addiction Therapist (LMAT): United States Citizenship. Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy. English Language Proficiency. AT/LMAT candidates must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. § 7403(f). Education. AT and LMAT candidates must meet the education requirements defined in the specific sub-appendix for the position being filled. For an LMAT candidates must hold a master's degree or higher in drug and alcohol studies or related behavioral health field from an accredited college or university. Foreign Education. There is no substitution for foreign education for this occupation; therefore, foreign education evaluation is not applicable. Licensure/Certification. Reference to "license," "licensure," "certification," or "non-licensed" throughout the appendix and sub-appendices is implied and intended for different levels of certification and license granted by level in a United States state, territory, commonwealth, or the District of Columbia depending on the highest level of recognition for practice in the field of Alcohol and Drug Treatment in a jurisdiction based upon the specific level of degree obtained (bachelor's degree or master's degree). AT and LMAT candidates must meet the licensure requirements defined in the specific sub-appendix for the position being filled. For the LMAT 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. Exception. 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. Grade Determinations: GS-11: Experience. One year of creditable experience comparable to the next lower grade. Please refer to creditable experience listed below under the how you will be evaluated section. 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 The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-11. Physical Requirements: The work is primarily sedentary, with occasional requirements to lift office supplies up to approximately 10 pounds. The work may require using appropriate technique to physically restrain clients who present a danger to self or others. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand and walk. Specific vision abilities required by this job function include but are not limited to close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. The employee is required to maintain a valid driver's license for facility driving privileges. Mental/Emotional Requirements: Understanding of complex problems and ability to collaborate and explore alternative solutions. Understanding of opposing points of view on highly complex issues and ability to negotiate and integrate different viewpoints. Ability to make decisions which have moderate to significant impact on immediate work unit as well as decisions which have impact outside immediate work unit. Make decisions which have significant impact on the department's credibility, operations and services. Requires ability and emotional intelligence to practice patience in controlling one's emotions. Compose letters, outlines, memoranda and basic reports and/or orally communicate technical information. Communicate with individuals using a telephone. Express or exchange ideas by means of the spoken or written word, communicating orally with others accurately, and with appropriate volume. Make informal presentations outside the immediate work area. Work Environment: Work is typically performed in a clinical setting that involves everyday risks or discomforts which require safety precautions typical of hospitals, offices and meeting rooms. Some work is performed in a setting away from the office where the environment cannot be controlled. There may be occasional risk of physical harm that may require special precautions and training. ["Address the effects of SUD on interpersonal relationships using individual, couples, families and group-oriented therapies Participate in tracking and maintenance of follow-up measures, quality control, and process improvement Contribute to the treatment plan, and setting achievable treatment goals with the Veteran/family in collaboration with the MHRRTP interdisciplinary treatment teams Coordinate/access immediate medical attention for the Veteran via medical professionals should medical or psychiatric emergency occur Provide education related to VA and community resources, entitlements, Advance Directives/Living Will/Mental Health Preferences Advance Directives, and will refer Veterans/families to the appropriate interdisciplinary team member for identified health education needs Work Schedule: Monday-Friday 7:30AM to 4:00PM or 8:00AM to 4:30PM; the tour may vary depending on deployment and/or assigned facility needs. This position will also include rotating weekends. Compressed/Flexible: Not Available Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 92059-A Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required"]
About Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration
Providing Health Care for Veterans: The Veterans Health Administration is America’s largest integrated health care system, providing care at 1,255 health care facilities, including 170 medical centers and 1,074 outpatient sites of care of varying complexity (VHA outpatient clinics), serving 9 million enrolled Veterans each year.