Has anyone worked in a VA Residential Treatment Program?

[mind_over_matter277]

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I have been a staff psychologist in a VA residential treatment program for the last 4 years. I’ve always wanted to work in this setting within the VA after completing a practicum in a SUD/Dual diagnosis VA residential program.

It’s a unique setting and I enjoy working with the veterans for sure. However, I am noticing some frustration and stress due to systemic issues. Over the last few years, several psychologists have left this setting. Most have moved to outpatient programs.

I find that there seems to be less of an influence of psychology in this setting relative to previous years. There seems to be a push for more case management and group therapy rather than individual evidence based treatment.

I also notice that there’s a lot more drama present among colleagues. It’s started to weigh down on me. I do feel maybe there’s a desire to phase out psychologists here as many positions are being replaced by master’s level clinicians.

Have you all worked in this type of setting before? Did you encounter any of these issues?

 

[Sanman]

SUD is an interesting place as not as many psychologists are trained in it and is has always had case managers and other paraprofessional involvement. There is a lot of money in intensive outpatient treatment outside the VA and with everything going on right now, I can't imagine that you are drawing the most competitive candidates for the job.