Counselor Jobs in Georgia
Counselor jobs in Georgia are concentrated in behavioral health, school systems, and substance use recovery services, with openings at every level from entry-level case coordinator to licensed clinical director. Atlanta, Augusta, and Savannah are the busiest hiring markets, anchored by large employers such as Wellstar Health System, the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities, and Youth Villages. The most in-demand specialties are substance use counseling, school counseling, and mental health counseling for community health centers. Scan the live roles below and apply to whichever ones fit.
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Summary
The Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (GS-09/11) serves as an Outpatient Mental Health Treatment Coordinator within the Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (BHIP). Duties include psychosocial assessments, mental health care coordination, treatment planning, crisis intervention, referrals, monitoring high-risk Veterans, and promoting continuity of care. GS-09 counselors work under clinical supervision, while GS-11 counselors practice independently.
Learn more about this agency
This job is open to
The public
Clarification from the agency
This job is open to all U.S. Citizens. NOTE: The 2-page Resume requirement does not apply to this position.
Duties
Major duties include, but are not limited to:
- Conducts psychosocial and mental health care coordination assessments to identify Veterans' treatment needs, risk factors, and barriers to care.
- Develops, implements, monitors, and adjusts individualized mental health care coordination plans in collaboration with Veterans and interdisciplinary treatment teams.
- Coordinates mental health services, referrals, appointments, and transitions of care across VA specialty programs and community resources.
- Provides same-day access, walk-in services, clinical triage, urgent referrals, and crisis intervention within the scope of practice.
- Serves as a primary point of contact for Veterans, promoting treatment engagement, continuity of care, and access to appropriate services.
- Collaborates with interdisciplinary team members to address complex mental health needs, including suicide prevention and high-risk Veterans.
- Provides education and resources to Veterans, families, and caregivers to support self-management, informed decision-making, and recovery.
- Monitors population health dashboards to identify gaps in care, track assigned Veterans, and facilitate proactive outreach.
- Maintains accurate and timely documentation of assessments, treatment plans, interventions, and care coordination activities in the electronic health record.
- Participates in interdisciplinary team meetings, program evaluations, and quality improvement initiatives to enhance mental health services.
Grade-Level Distinction: At the GS-09 level, duties are performed under clinical supervision, with increasing independence as competencies develop. At the GS-11 level, duties are performed independently using advanced clinical judgment.
Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:30pmTelework: Not Available
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #: 63552F, 63553F
Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized
Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized
Requirements
Conditions of employment
- You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job.
- 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 (https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents). Effective May 7, 2025, driver's licenses or state-issued identification cards that are not REAL ID compliant cannot be utilized as an acceptable form of identification for employment.
- 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.
- 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.
Qualifications
Basic Requirements:
Citizenship: Be a citizen of the United States. Non-citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA policy.
Education: Hold a master's or doctoral degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling; Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling; Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling; or a related field from a program accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). Examples of related mental health counseling fields include Addiction Counseling, Community Counseling, Gerontology Counseling, and Marital, Couple, and Family Counseling.
NOTE: Traditional Rehabilitation Counseling programs accredited by CACREP do not meet the LPMHC qualification standard because Traditional Rehabilitation Counseling differs from Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling.
Licensure: Persons hired or reassigned to LPMHC positions in the GS-0183 series must hold a full, current, and unrestricted license to independently practice as a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor, including diagnosis and treatment.
Exception: VHA may waive the licensure requirement at the GS-09 entry level for otherwise qualified applicants completing state prerequisites for licensure. The appointing official may grant a waiver for a period not to exceed three years. Unlicensed LPMHCs must practice under the clinical supervision of a licensed LPMHC at or above the full-performance level. Applicants selected at the GS-11 level must possess the required independent practice license.
Grandfather Provision: Employees serving as LPMHCs in VHA on the effective date of the qualification standard who met the qualification requirements applicable at the time of their appointment may be covered by the grandfathering provisions outlined in VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Appendix G43.
English Language Proficiency: LPMHCs must be proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Chapter 3, Section A, paragraph 3.j.
Grade Determinations
Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor, GS-09 (Entry Level)
Experience, Education, and Licensure: The GS-09 level is the entry grade for LPMHCs with less than one year of post-master's degree experience or for master's or doctoral degree graduates who are not yet licensed at the independent practice level. Unlicensed LPMHCs must have completed the required education and be working toward meeting state licensure prerequisites.
In addition to meeting the basic requirements, candidates must demonstrate the following knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs):
Ability to conduct intake assessments, identify problems, formulate diagnoses, develop and implement treatment plans, evaluate outcomes, and provide follow-up care.
Knowledge of the current Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) for developing treatment goals and applying appropriate clinical interventions.
Basic knowledge of professional counseling practices, human development principles, and interventions addressing high-risk behaviors, wellness, personal growth, and career development.
Ability to provide individual, group, and family counseling interventions.
Ability to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to address the intrapersonal, interpersonal, and relational functioning of individuals and families.
Basic skill in computer applications, data management, clinical documentation, and delivery of services, including telehealth.
Ability to learn and utilize software programs used by VHA.
Knowledge of applicable statutes, case law, ethical codes, and regulations governing professional counseling practice.
Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing, with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Assignment: GS-09 LPMHCs perform professional mental health counseling services under close clinical supervision, including co-signatures when required. They are not authorized to practice independently.
Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor, GS-11 (Full Performance Level)
Experience, Education, and Licensure: In addition to meeting the basic requirements, candidates must possess at least one year of post-master's or post-doctoral degree mental health counseling experience (VA or non-VA), hold a full, current, and unrestricted license to practice independently, and demonstrate the required KSAs.
In addition to meeting the GS-09 KSAs, candidates must demonstrate the following:
Ability to make professional evaluations, decisions, and recommendations regarding treatment planning and implementation.
Advanced knowledge and mastery of the counseling process, including identifying patient and family problems and maintaining effective counseling relationships.
Ability to provide professional consultation to colleagues and trainees regarding counseling practices, specialty areas, case progress, and clinical approaches.
Ability to independently provide complex crisis intervention and stabilization to patients experiencing psychological distress.
Ability to collaboratively establish treatment goals using advanced counseling skills, evidence-based practices, screening, and psychosocial assessments.
Ability to provide a wide range of individual, group, and family counseling interventions.
Ability to independently utilize the current DSM to formulate diagnoses, establish treatment goals, and implement appropriate clinical interventions.
Ability to develop and facilitate psychotherapy and psychoeducational groups addressing life skills, family support, and community integration, including evidence-based psychotherapy.
Assignment: GS-11 LPMHCs function at the full-performance level and independently provide professional mental health counseling services, exercising clinical judgment in assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, crisis intervention, and coordination of care.
Creditable Experience
To be creditable, experience must be post-master's degree professional mental health counseling experience that demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities associated with current LPMHC practice.
Part-time experience is creditable in proportion to the full-time workweek. Qualifying fellowship or post-graduate training may be substituted for creditable experience on a year-for-year basis.
Practicum experience completed before obtaining the qualifying master's degree may not be substituted for the required professional experience.
Reference: VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Appendix G43, Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor Qualification Standard, GS-0183.
Physical Requirements: See VA Directive and Handbook 5019.
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: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.
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.
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
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.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
How you will be evaluated
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
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.
Area of Consideration- Eligible applications will be reviewed and referred in the following order:
1. Current permanent VA employees of the Facility.
2. All other VA employees.
3. Current permanent Federal employees of other agencies.
4. All other applicants.
Required Documents
To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes:
- Long-form resume/Curriculum vitae (CV)
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
- Long-form resume/Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Other (1)
- PCS Orders
- Performance Appraisal
- Professional Certification
- 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.
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
How to Apply
All applicants are encouraged to apply online. To apply for this position, you must complete the full questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 11/30/2026 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/13095499.
- To begin, click Apply Online to create a USAJOBS account or log in to your existing account. Follow the prompts to select your USA JOBS resume and/or other supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Click Submit My Answers to submit your application package.
NOTE: It is your responsibility to ensure your responses and appropriate documentation is submitted prior to the closing date.
Agency contact information
One Freedom Way
Augusta, GA 30901
US
Next steps
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.
Overview
- 0183 Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor
- Credentialing
- Suitability/Fitness
Summary
The Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (GS-09/11) serves as an Outpatient Mental Health Treatment Coordinator within the Behavioral Health Interdisciplinary Program (BHIP). Duties include psychosocial assessments, mental health care coordination, treatment planning, crisis intervention, referrals, monitoring high-risk Veterans, and promoting continuity of care. GS-09 counselors work under clinical supervision, while GS-11 counselors practice independently.
Learn more about this agency
This job is open to
The public
Clarification from the agency
This job is open to all U.S. Citizens. NOTE: The 2-page Resume requirement does not apply to this position.
Duties
Major duties include, but are not limited to:
- Conducts psychosocial and mental health care coordination assessments to identify Veterans' treatment needs, risk factors, and barriers to care.
- Develops, implements, monitors, and adjusts individualized mental health care coordination plans in collaboration with Veterans and interdisciplinary treatment teams.
- Coordinates mental health services, referrals, appointments, and transitions of care across VA specialty programs and community resources.
- Provides same-day access, walk-in services, clinical triage, urgent referrals, and crisis intervention within the scope of practice.
- Serves as a primary point of contact for Veterans, promoting treatment engagement, continuity of care, and access to appropriate services.
- Collaborates with interdisciplinary team members to address complex mental health needs, including suicide prevention and high-risk Veterans.
- Provides education and resources to Veterans, families, and caregivers to support self-management, informed decision-making, and recovery.
- Monitors population health dashboards to identify gaps in care, track assigned Veterans, and facilitate proactive outreach.
- Maintains accurate and timely documentation of assessments, treatment plans, interventions, and care coordination activities in the electronic health record.
- Participates in interdisciplinary team meetings, program evaluations, and quality improvement initiatives to enhance mental health services.
Grade-Level Distinction: At the GS-09 level, duties are performed under clinical supervision, with increasing independence as competencies develop. At the GS-11 level, duties are performed independently using advanced clinical judgment.
Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:30pmTelework: Not Available
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #: 63552F, 63553F
Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized
Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized
Requirements
Conditions of employment
- You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job.
- 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 (https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents). Effective May 7, 2025, driver's licenses or state-issued identification cards that are not REAL ID compliant cannot be utilized as an acceptable form of identification for employment.
- 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.
- 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.
Qualifications
Basic Requirements:
Citizenship: Be a citizen of the United States. Non-citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA policy.
Education: Hold a master's or doctoral degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling; Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling; Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling; or a related field from a program accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). Examples of related mental health counseling fields include Addiction Counseling, Community Counseling, Gerontology Counseling, and Marital, Couple, and Family Counseling.
NOTE: Traditional Rehabilitation Counseling programs accredited by CACREP do not meet the LPMHC qualification standard because Traditional Rehabilitation Counseling differs from Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling.
Licensure: Persons hired or reassigned to LPMHC positions in the GS-0183 series must hold a full, current, and unrestricted license to independently practice as a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor, including diagnosis and treatment.
Exception: VHA may waive the licensure requirement at the GS-09 entry level for otherwise qualified applicants completing state prerequisites for licensure. The appointing official may grant a waiver for a period not to exceed three years. Unlicensed LPMHCs must practice under the clinical supervision of a licensed LPMHC at or above the full-performance level. Applicants selected at the GS-11 level must possess the required independent practice license.
Grandfather Provision: Employees serving as LPMHCs in VHA on the effective date of the qualification standard who met the qualification requirements applicable at the time of their appointment may be covered by the grandfathering provisions outlined in VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Appendix G43.
English Language Proficiency: LPMHCs must be proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Chapter 3, Section A, paragraph 3.j.
Grade Determinations
Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor, GS-09 (Entry Level)
Experience, Education, and Licensure: The GS-09 level is the entry grade for LPMHCs with less than one year of post-master's degree experience or for master's or doctoral degree graduates who are not yet licensed at the independent practice level. Unlicensed LPMHCs must have completed the required education and be working toward meeting state licensure prerequisites.
In addition to meeting the basic requirements, candidates must demonstrate the following knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs):
Ability to conduct intake assessments, identify problems, formulate diagnoses, develop and implement treatment plans, evaluate outcomes, and provide follow-up care.
Knowledge of the current Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) for developing treatment goals and applying appropriate clinical interventions.
Basic knowledge of professional counseling practices, human development principles, and interventions addressing high-risk behaviors, wellness, personal growth, and career development.
Ability to provide individual, group, and family counseling interventions.
Ability to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to address the intrapersonal, interpersonal, and relational functioning of individuals and families.
Basic skill in computer applications, data management, clinical documentation, and delivery of services, including telehealth.
Ability to learn and utilize software programs used by VHA.
Knowledge of applicable statutes, case law, ethical codes, and regulations governing professional counseling practice.
Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing, with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Assignment: GS-09 LPMHCs perform professional mental health counseling services under close clinical supervision, including co-signatures when required. They are not authorized to practice independently.
Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor, GS-11 (Full Performance Level)
Experience, Education, and Licensure: In addition to meeting the basic requirements, candidates must possess at least one year of post-master's or post-doctoral degree mental health counseling experience (VA or non-VA), hold a full, current, and unrestricted license to practice independently, and demonstrate the required KSAs.
In addition to meeting the GS-09 KSAs, candidates must demonstrate the following:
Ability to make professional evaluations, decisions, and recommendations regarding treatment planning and implementation.
Advanced knowledge and mastery of the counseling process, including identifying patient and family problems and maintaining effective counseling relationships.
Ability to provide professional consultation to colleagues and trainees regarding counseling practices, specialty areas, case progress, and clinical approaches.
Ability to independently provide complex crisis intervention and stabilization to patients experiencing psychological distress.
Ability to collaboratively establish treatment goals using advanced counseling skills, evidence-based practices, screening, and psychosocial assessments.
Ability to provide a wide range of individual, group, and family counseling interventions.
Ability to independently utilize the current DSM to formulate diagnoses, establish treatment goals, and implement appropriate clinical interventions.
Ability to develop and facilitate psychotherapy and psychoeducational groups addressing life skills, family support, and community integration, including evidence-based psychotherapy.
Assignment: GS-11 LPMHCs function at the full-performance level and independently provide professional mental health counseling services, exercising clinical judgment in assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, crisis intervention, and coordination of care.
Creditable Experience
To be creditable, experience must be post-master's degree professional mental health counseling experience that demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities associated with current LPMHC practice.
Part-time experience is creditable in proportion to the full-time workweek. Qualifying fellowship or post-graduate training may be substituted for creditable experience on a year-for-year basis.
Practicum experience completed before obtaining the qualifying master's degree may not be substituted for the required professional experience.
Reference: VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Appendix G43, Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor Qualification Standard, GS-0183.
Physical Requirements: See VA Directive and Handbook 5019.
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: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.
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.
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
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.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
How you will be evaluated
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
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.
Area of Consideration- Eligible applications will be reviewed and referred in the following order:
1. Current permanent VA employees of the Facility.
2. All other VA employees.
3. Current permanent Federal employees of other agencies.
4. All other applicants.
Required Documents
To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes:
- Long-form resume/Curriculum vitae (CV)
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
- Long-form resume/Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Other (1)
- PCS Orders
- Performance Appraisal
- Professional Certification
- 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.
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
How to Apply
All applicants are encouraged to apply online. To apply for this position, you must complete the full questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 11/30/2026 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/13095499.
- To begin, click Apply Online to create a USAJOBS account or log in to your existing account. Follow the prompts to select your USA JOBS resume and/or other supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Click Submit My Answers to submit your application package.
NOTE: It is your responsibility to ensure your responses and appropriate documentation is submitted prior to the closing date.
Agency contact information
One Freedom Way
Augusta, GA 30901
US
Next steps
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.
Overview
- 0183 Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor
- Credentialing
- Suitability/Fitness
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Where Georgia roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Counselor Job Market in Georgia
A snapshot from current Georgia openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Healthcare & Medical Services
What Georgia Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in counselor jobs across Georgia.
- Active Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) credential issued by the Georgia Composite Board
- Master's degree in counseling, clinical mental health, or a closely related field
- Experience with evidence-based practices such as CBT or motivational interviewing
- Proficiency with electronic health record systems used in clinical settings
- Ability to complete required documentation within agency compliance timelines
- Strong communication skills for working with diverse client populations across Georgia communities
Counselor Jobs in Georgia: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a counselor in Georgia?
To become a licensed counselor in Georgia, you must earn a master's degree in counseling or a related field and apply through the Georgia Composite Board of Professional Counselors, Social Workers, and Marriage and Family Therapists. The board requires supervised post-graduate hours and passage of the National Counselor Examination. Many Georgia employers will also accept candidates pursuing an Associate Licensed Professional Counselor credential while completing their supervision hours.
Which companies hire counselors in Georgia?
Companies currently hiring counselors in Georgia include LifeStance Health, Georgia Department of Corrections, and Clarvida, per current listings on Migrate Mate as of October 2026. Georgia's large behavioral health networks, hospital systems, and state-funded community service boards consistently generate the most openings across the state.
Which Georgia cities have the most counselor jobs?
The cities with the most counselor openings in Georgia are Atlanta, Augusta, and Columbus. Atlanta's concentration of hospital systems, nonprofit behavioral health agencies, and large public school districts drives the highest volume, while Augusta and Savannah generate steady demand through their regional medical centers, military community services, and growing outpatient mental health networks.
Are there remote counselor jobs in Georgia?
Yes, but they are less common than in purely desk-based fields since many counseling roles involve in-person client contact. About 29% of counselor openings tied to Georgia are remote or hybrid as of October 2026, with telehealth positions making up the bulk of fully remote options. School counselor and crisis intervention roles are almost always on-site.
How can I get hired as a counselor in Georgia with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is applying for a case manager or behavioral health technician role at a Georgia community service board or a large provider such as Behavioral Health Link or Pathways Center, which regularly hire candidates who are still completing supervision hours. Securing your Associate Licensed Professional Counselor credential through the Georgia Composite Board signals readiness to employers and opens doors to paid, supervised clinical positions that count toward full licensure.
Where can I find and apply to counselor jobs in Georgia?
You can find and apply to counselor jobs in Georgia on Migrate Mate, which lists current Georgia openings updated regularly. Search the roles available, identify the ones that match your license status, experience, and preferred location, and apply directly to each one that fits.
See All 120+ Counselor Jobs in Georgia
Find roles in Georgia that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Counselor Jobs