Major Duties and Responsibilities:
The SUD Psychiatrist is a core member of the interdisciplinary substance use treatment team, responsible for the psychiatric care and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) of Veterans with substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions. The psychiatrist works closely with psychologists, social workers, addiction therapists, peer specialists, and nursing staff to deliver evidence-based, recovery-oriented care.
Key duties include but are not limited to:
- Conduct comprehensive psychiatric evaluations for Veterans with substance use disorders, including assessment of co-occurring psychiatric and medical conditions.
- Initiate and manage pharmacologic treatments, including buprenorphine and other MAT options, in accordance with VA policy and clinical guidelines.
- Provide integrated care for Veterans with dual diagnoses, including mood, anxiety, trauma-related, and psychotic disorders.
- Collaborate closely with the interdisciplinary SUD team to coordinate individualized treatment planning and progress monitoring.
- Participate in group or individual psychiatric follow-up as clinically indicated.
- Complete all documentation requirements in the Computerized Patient Record System (CPRS) in accordance with VA standards.
- Provide consultation to other providers and teams on the diagnosis and management of substance use and co-occurring disorders.
- Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings, case reviews, and clinical huddles to support integrated treatment delivery.
- Monitor patient safety and contribute to suicide prevention practices through risk assessments, safety planning, and appropriate care coordination.
- Remain informed of and compliant with all relevant VA policies, federal regulations, and Joint Commission standards.
Work Environment and Supervision:
The SUD Psychiatrist works within a multidisciplinary team located in the outpatient substance use clinic. The psychiatrist exercises independent clinical judgment in their area of practice and is supervised by the Psychiatry Section Chief (or designee). They are ultimately accountable to the Chief, Mental Health.