At Battle Creek VA Medical Center in Michigan, there are several positions available in mental health and other disciplines, giving you the chance to care for Veterans in a bustling city with small-town values. To help you understand what it’s like to work for our organization, we chatted with Ken Mitchell, an Air Force Veteran who we are proud to call one of our National Healthcare Recruitment Consultants.
Why did you choose VA as an employer?
I love being able to serve fellow Veterans alongside people who share my passion for helping others.
What are some of the best benefits you receive?
We get generous paid time off—up to 54 days a year, in fact. That includes 26 personal days intended to help employees maintain a healthy work-life balance. VA also offers excellent medical, dental and vision coverage options.
Does your medical center have any unique mental health resources?
In addition to outpatient and emergency mental health care, we provide residential treatment programs for substance abuse and post-traumatic stress disorder. This creates unique practice opportunities for potential candidates interested in joining us.
National Healthcare Recruitment Consultant, Kenneth Mitchell
Can you tell us about your experience as a patient at VA?
As a VA patient, I have access to a dedicated PACT (Patient Aligned Care Team), which includes a primary care provider, mental health specialist, nurse care manager, social worker, pharmacist, dietitian and other medical professionals. They deliver outstanding care at a level I haven’t experienced anywhere else.
What’s your favorite part about working at VA?
The feeling I get knowing that I’m giving back to others who’ve given so much for our country.
If you’re ready to become part of our team in Battle Creek or at another location in America, explore our open roles and pursue one today.
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I have been applying to the VA for a long time. My applications have never made it through the screening process. I am a Licensed Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor in New Mexico and Washington State. I have a BS in psychology, MS in Counseling, Ph.D. in behavioral psychology. Because I graduated with my masters degree before CACREP certification of programs existed I am told I do not meet the selection criteria. With over 40 years experience I am a loss as to why the VA has adopted this rule without considering those of us that graduated with honors from accredited schools, did our internships and used vocational rehabilitation, obtained licensure, am a 100% disabled service connected veteran. We have been excluded or rejected because of disability.