The Central Virginia VA Health Care System in Richmond, VA is seeking a dedicated and skilled Mental Health Social Worker to join our Mental Health Same Day Access (SDA) team. This position is integral to providing immediate mental health support and crisis intervention to our Veterans. The successful candidate will utilize their expertise to assess, intervene, and develop treatment plans for Veterans presenting for SDA services.
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: United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy. Education: Have a master's degree in social work from a school of social work fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). A doctoral degree in social work may not be substituted for the master's degree in social work. Experience/Licensure: Appointment to the GS-11 grade level requires completion of a minimum of one year of post-MSW experience equivalent to the GS-9 grade level in the field of health care or other social work-related settings, (VA or non-VA experience) and licensure or certification in a state at the independent practice level. In addition to the above, the following experience must be demonstrated: Knowledge of community resources, how to make appropriate referrals to community and other governmental agencies for services, and ability to coordinate services. Skill in independently conducting psychosocial assessments and treatment interventions to a wide variety of individuals from various socio-economic, cultural, ethnic, educational and other diversified backgrounds. Knowledge of medical and mental health diagnoses, disabilities and treatment procedures (i.e. acute, chronic and traumatic illnesses/injuries, common medications and their effects/side effects, and medical terminology) to formulate a treatment plan. Skill in independently implementing different treatment modalities in working with individuals, families, and groups who are experiencing a variety of psychiatric, medical, and social problems to achieve treatment goals. Ability to provide consultation services to new social workers, social work graduate students, and other staff about the psychosocial needs of patients and the impact of psychosocial problems on health care and compliance with treatment. References: VA HANDBOOK 5005/120 PART II APPENDIX G39 The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-11.
The successful candidate has strong knowledge and experience managing Veterans experiencing acute mental health crises. These Veterans often have complex clinical and psychosocial needs, requiring timely evaluations of risk and appropriate dispositions. Conduct biopsychosocial triage assessments to evaluate the needs of Veterans in crisis. Utilize evidence-based interventions to address acute mental health concerns. Formulate and implement short-term treatment plans for Veterans seeking SDA services. Assess Veterans in crisis for involuntary psychiatric commitment, complete necessary paperwork, and coordinate the commitment process, including facilitating hearings and collaborating with community service boards and courts. Conduct comprehensive suicide risk assessments, identifying risk and protective factors, and recommend appropriate levels of care. Develop sound suicide safety plans and provide lethal means counseling. Support outpatient medical clinics through the assessment of Veterans reporting urgent mental health concerns or screening positive for suicidal thoughts, plans, or intent. Ensure continuity of care by providing timely evaluations, interventions, and dispositions for Veterans presenting for SDA or urgent mental health services. Complete consults and facilitate mental health appointment scheduling for Veterans seeking same-day access services. Maintain accurate and timely documentation in compliance with VA policies and regulatory standards Performs other directly related duties as assigned. Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8am-4:30pm Recruitment Incentive (Sign-on Bonus): Not Authorized Virtual: This is not a virtual position. VA Careers - Social Work: https://youtube.com/embed/enRhz_ua_UU