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Site Name: VA Medical Center, Salem

Department: MHSL-Psychology (116C)

Department : MHSL-Psychology (116C)

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Member Site Information
APPIC Member Number: 1614
Program Type: Internship
Membership Type: Full Membership
Site: VA Medical Center, Salem
Department: MHSL-Psychology (116C)
Address: 1970 Roanoke Boulevard
116C
Salem, Virginia 24153-6478
Country: United States
Metro Area: Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Distance from Major City: next to Roanoke, VA
Phone: 540-982-2463x4188
Fax: 540-224-1957
Email: dana.holohan@va.gov
Web Address: https://www.va.gov/salem-health-care/programs/
Brochure Website's Address: https://www.va.gov/salem-health-care/programs/
Primary Agency Type: Veterans Affairs Medical Center
Additional Agency Types:
  • Veterans Affairs Medical Center
Member of APPIC since:
Accreditation
APA Accreditation Accredited
CPA Accreditation Not Accredited
Internship Staff/Faculty Information
Training Director: Dana Holohan
Chief Psychologist: Brian Shenal
Number of Full-Time Licensed Doctoral Psychologists on Staff/Faculty 29
Number of Part-Time Licensed Doctoral Psychologists on Staff/Faculty 2
Position Information
Start Date: 07/15/2024
Funded
Number of Full Time Slots Expected Next Class: 3
Number of Part Time Slots Expected Next Class: 0
Stipend
Full Time Annual Stipend for Next Class: 33469
Part Time Annual Stipend for Next Class: 0
Fringe Benefits: Dental Insurance, Health Insurance, Professional Development Time, Sick Leave, Vacation
Other Fringe Benefits (not indicated above): Access to on site fitness center
Brief description of the typical work day for an intern at this training site Typical day includes supervision, as well as participation on one's minor rotation, major rotation, and/ or long-term experience. Interns work diligently throughout the day, seeing a variety of patients with a range of mental health concerns. Interns are expected to use science to inform clinical work, monitor patient progress, learn a variety of EBPs, and efficiently evaluate and diagnose a range of problems. The expectation also is that interns leave at 430pm to ensure adequate work/life balance.
Does this site have practicum psychology students on site? Yes
Doctoral Psychology Practicum StudentsYes
Masters Psychology Practicum StudentsNo
Do Psychology Interns/Postdocs Have the Opportunity to Supervise Practicum Students?Yes
Is this program fully affiliated with one or more doctoral programs? No
Is this program partially affiliated with one or more doctoral programs? No
Internship Application Process
Accepting Applicants: Yes
Application Due Date: 11/14/2023 11:59 PM EST
Interviews at this site are: Not Offered
A Virtual Interview is: Required
Interview notification date: 12/15/2023
Tentative interview date: 12/12, 12/15, and 1/11
Interview process description:

We have previously required in person interviews, but, originally due to COVID and based on positive response to this option, we are adapting to Virtual interviews only this year. Three interview dates are offered at this time: likely 12/12 12/15, and 1/11. Please rank order in your cover letter your preference for interview dates with 1 most preferred and 3 least preferred. Because we prioritize fit with our program in the match process, the interview day is informative for both our program and the applicant. Applicants have told us the interview day is an exceptionally accurate representation of our program. We will try our best to have our virtual interview represent us equally as well. 

Interviews consist of group presentations, with applicants hearing from the Director of Training and on site VA supervisors presenting on their rotations and supervision style. Applicants will also have time with our current interns. We have restructured our interview process to facilitate them all being virtual.  Each applicant will have multiple interactions with supervisory staff.  Applicants should rank their top five choices for on site Salem VA staff to meet with, starting with 1 being most preferred and 5 preferred. Rank lists should be included in the applicant's cover letter.

Applicants are normally notified by telephone or email by the Director of Training if they were accepted for an interview. Notification is on a rolling basis. 
How to obtain application info: Visit Website
Preferred method of contacting the program: Email the Program
We have matched with interns from these programs: We match with applicants from a wide range of schools. Match over the last several cycles have been from the following: Auburn University East Carolina University Central Michigan University University of New Mexico University of Virginia Ohio University San Diego State Gallaudet University University of Alabama-Tuscaloosa Bowling Green State University Southern Illinois University University of Missouri-St. Louis University of Arkansas-Fayetteville Western Michigan University University of Central Florida Duke University American University Ohio State University Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis University of Tulsa Virginia Commonwealth University Purdue University University of Louisville Northern Illinois University University of Pittsburgh University of Maryland University of North Carolina-Greensboro University of Washington-St Louis University of Alabama-Birmingham Washington State University Virginia Polytechnic and State University University of Pennsylvania Loma Linda University University of Kansas Spalding University University of Arizona Indiana State University NOVA Southeastern University West Virginia University University of Wyoming University of South Dakota University of Texas at Austin Binghamton University University of Memphis University of South Carolina Loyola College of Maryland Penn State University Texas Women's University Texas A&M University Rosalind Franklin School of Medicine University of Norte Dame University of Southern Mississippi Utah State University University of Mississippi Wayne State University of La Verne
Internship Applicant Requirements
US Citizenship Required: Yes
If NOT a U.S. Citizen, Authorization to Work or to Engage in Practical Training (CPT or OPT) in the US is Required: No
Canadian Citizenship Required: No
If NOT a Canadian Citizen, Authorization to Work in Canada or to Engage in Practical Training (CPT or OPT) in Canada is Required: No
Masters Degree Required: No
Comprehensive Exams Passed: Yes, by start of internship
Dissertation Proposal Approved: Yes, by start of internship
Dissertation Defended: No
Minimum Number of AAPI Intervention Hours (if applicable):
Minimum Number of AAPI Assessment Hours (if applicable):
Minimum Number of Combined Intervention and Assessment Hours (if applicable): 350
Minimum Number of Years of Grad Training Required (if applicable):
Accepted / Not-Accepted Program Types
Clinical Psychology Accepted
Counseling Psychology Accepted
School Psychology Not Accepted
APA-Accredited Accepted
CPA-Accredited Accepted
PCSAS-Accredited Accepted
Non-Accredited Not Accepted
Ph.D Degree Accepted
Psy.D. Degree Accepted
Ed.D. Degree Not Accepted
This institution, department, internship, or postdoctoral program requires trainees to sign a statement about personal behavior and/or religious beliefs as a condition of admission and/or retention in the program: No
How to obtain text of statement: n/a
Other Requirements: Applicants must be US citizens. Subject to drug screens. Match is contingent on background check. Fingerprints and additional federal forms are required for such. See additional requirements for VA internships at https://www.va.gov/oaa/hpt-eligibility.asp (TB tests, other vaccinations, flu shot).
Program Description

The Salem VAMC offers a generalist program in clinical psychology with a strong cognitive-behavioral orientation. We adhere to a scientist-practitioner model. The focus of our training programs is TRAINING and we use a developmental model for supervision. Major rotations (4-6 months) occur for 3 days/week. A rotation in Evidence-Based Psychotherapy/ Outpatient Psychological Services is required. Behavioral Medicine/Primary Care, Substance Use Disorders, Neuropsychology, Geropsychology, and PTSD major rotations are elective. We have offered a Neuropsychology Track (Match# 161412) for applicants specifically wanting a Neuropsychology specialization BUT WILL NOT BE OFFERING THIS NEXT YEAR DUE TO STAFFING CHANGES. Applicants wanting a strong generalist training are a great fit, as are applicants wanting a generalist background with an emphasis in any of our Major Rotation content areas. Minor rotations are varied in experience and length. Interns spend approximately 1 day/week on their minor rotations. Examples of on and off-site minors include: Sport Psychology, Administration, Neuropsychology, Geropsychology, Military Sexual Trauma, SMI (PRRC), PTSD, Chronic Pain, Behavioral Medicine, Primary Care Psychology, Substance Use Disorders, Program Development and Evaluation, EAP, and Research. A long-term experience is also selected for the entire year. Some options include: DBT, MI/MET, Memory Assessment, Administration, Whole Health, CPT, LGBTQ+, residential groups, and Chronic Pain. Although we are a generalist program, we do also adhere to the Houston guidelines for training neuropsychologists and have done an exceptional job preparing neuropsychologists. When available, Neuropsychology applicants may choose to apply to just the Neuropsychology Track or to both tracks. The Neuropsychology Track ensures Neuropsychology Major rotation occurs first rotation and explicit assurance of Houston guidelines being met (again, not available this current year). Extensive didactic trainings are an important component of the internship. Didactics occur weekly for approximately 1.5 hours each week. Seminars on independent practice issues, assessment, ethics and legal issues, diversity, working with personality disorders, self-care, pain management, EBPs, supervision, motivational interviewing, and professional development. Research is encouraged and publication opportunities are available. Trainees are involved in our Multicultural and Diversity Committee. Salem is a collegial, warm, and supportive atmosphere. We focus on creating a balanced life, which integrates personal and professional interests and activities. Time is provided weekly to facilitate intern relationships. There is a significant focus on dissertation completion, professional development, and employment search. Our beautiful location in SW Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains offers numerous recreational and cultural activities. Salem is next to Roanoke, Virginia and offers a safe environment, good schools, slower pace of life, great restaurants, and wonderful hiking. The area is affordable and there is something for everyone's living preferences, including city/urban living (e.g., loft style apartments downtown), suburban (houses or apartment complexes with many amenities), and more rural options (e.g., farmhouse) all within a short driving distance. Nearby Universities include Virginia Tech, Roanoke College, Hollins, and Radford.   Most rotations offer extensive video to home experiences.

Internship Training Opportunities

Populations
Infants:
Toddlers:
Children:
Adolescents:
Adults: Yes
Family:
Older Adults: Yes
Inpatients: Yes
Outpatients: Yes
Gay/lesbian/bisexual/transgender: Yes
Ethnic minorities: Yes
Spanish-speaking:
French-speaking:
Deaf/Hearing-impaired:
Students:
International Students:
Rural: Yes
Urban: Yes
Low income: Yes
Homelessness: Yes
Other:

(training opportunities continued)

Treatment Modalities
Assessment: Exposure (1% to 20%)
Individual Therapy: Major Area of Study (50% or Greater)
Couples Therapy:
Family Therapy:
Group Therapy: Emphasis (31% to 49%)
Community Intervention: Exposure (1% to 20%)
Consultation/Liaison: Emphasis (31% to 49%)
Crisis Intervention: Experience (21% to 30%)
Brief Psychotherapy: Major Area of Study (50% or Greater)
Long-term Psychotherapy: Exposure (1% to 20%)
Cognitive Rehabilitation: Exposure (1% to 20%)
Primary Care: Major Area of Study (50% or Greater)
Evidenced Based Practice: Major Area of Study (50% or Greater)
Evidence Based Research: Exposure (1% to 20%)
Supervision of Practicum students : Exposure (1% to 20%)
Other:

(training opportunities continued)

Experience
Health Psychology: Major Area of Study (50% or Greater)
Women's Health: Exposure (1% to 20%)
HIV/AIDS: Exposure (1% to 20%)
Eating Disorders: Exposure (1% to 20%)
Sexual Disorders: Exposure (1% to 20%)
Sports Psychology: Experience (21% to 30%)
Rehabilitation Psychology: Exposure (1% to 20%)
Physical Disabilities: Exposure (1% to 20%)
Learning Disabilities: Exposure (1% to 20%)
Developmental Disabilities:
Assessment: Exposure (1% to 20%)
Neuropsychology-Adult: Experience (21% to 30%)
Neuropsychology-Child:
Serious Mental Illness: Experience (21% to 30%)
Anxiety Disorders: Major Area of Study (50% or Greater)
Trauma/PTSD: Major Area of Study (50% or Greater)
Sexual Abuse: Major Area of Study (50% or Greater)
Substance Use Disorders: Major Area of Study (50% or Greater)
Forensics/Corrections:
Sexual Offenders:
Geropsychology: Major Area of Study (50% or Greater)
Pediatrics:
School:
Counseling:
Vocational/Career Development:
Multicultural Therapy:
Feminist Therapy:
Religion/Spirituality:
Empirically-Supported Treatments: Major Area of Study (50% or Greater)
Public Policy/Advocacy:
Program Development/Evaluation: Experience (21% to 30%)
Supervision: Exposure (1% to 20%)
Research: Experience (21% to 30%)
Administration: Experience (21% to 30%)
Integrated health care - primary: Major Area of Study (50% or Greater)
Integrated health care - specialty: Emphasis (31% to 49%)
Other:

Additional information about training opportunities: Not all rotations or training experiences may be available as described in the APPIC Directory. Please consult the program's application materials or their website at: https://www.va.gov/salem-health-care/programs/  for a complete description of the training opportunities available at this training site. IF the site has not updated their information by August 1, feel free to contact the Training Director for additional information.

Summary of the Characteristics of the Specified Internship Class
2017-2018 2018-2019 2019-2020 2020-2021 2021-2022 2022-2023 2023-2024
Number of Completed Applications: 92 120 72 105 89 77 97
Number of applicants invited for interviews: 47 51 46 46 46 42 46
Total number of interns: 4 4 5 5 4 4 4
Total number of interns from APA/CPA accredited programs: 4 4 5 5 4 4 4
Total number of interns from Ph.D. programs: 4 4 4 5 4 3 4
Total number of interns from Psy.D. programs: 0 0 1 0 0 1 0
Total number of interns from Ed.D. programs: 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Number of interns that come from a Clinical Psychology program 4 4 5 4 4 4 4
Number of interns that come from a Counseling Psychology program 0 0 0 1 0 0 0
Number of interns that come from a School Psychology program 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Range of integrated assessment reports: lowest number of reports written 5 7 11 6 4 1 7
Range of integrated assessment reports: highest number of reports written 173 38 143 75 75 145 25
Summary of Post Internship Employment Settings of Each Internship Class (1st Placement)
2022-2023
Academic teaching:
Community mental health center: 0
Consortium: 0
University Counseling Center: 0
Hospital/Medical Center: 2
Veterans Affairs Health Care System: 2
Psychiatric facility: 0
Correctional facility: 0
Health Maintenance Organization: 0
School district/system: 0
Independent practice setting: 0
Other (Academic Psychology Department): 0
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