Westchester Behavioral Health
NewYork-Presbyterian Westchester Behavioral Health Center, opened in 1894, is one of the world’s most advanced centers for psychiatric care. Our 270-bed facility serves children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly with comprehensive outpatient and inpatient care, day treatment, and partial hospitalization. In addition to clinical treatment, Westchester Behavioral Health participates in interdisciplinary medical research and education through its academic affiliate, Weill Cornell Medicine. The Department of Psychiatry features renowned experts who apply the latest research and treatments to the care of individuals with mental illness and emotional problems.
Volunteer Opportunities
Patient Care Units
A valuable experience for those interested in a career or further study in the mental health field, nursing, medicine, or social work. Under the supervision of the nursing staff, volunteers will assist with daily activities for patients with various psychiatric disorders. Responsibilities include visiting and talking with patients, offering emotional support, satisfying nonclinical needs, and assisting visitors on the unit. Must be 18 years of age or older.
Daily, 7:00 AM-8:00 PM
Evaluation Center
Evaluation Center volunteers reassure patients and their families that someone is concerned about their emotional needs while assisting with their admission process. This can have a significant impact on the individual's perception of the EC and of their hospital experience. The volunteer, through communication, companionship, and problem-solving techniques, can help create an environment of compassion and concern. Must be 18 years of age or older to volunteer.
Daily, 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Center for Autism and Developing Brain (CADB)
Volunteers will work with age-matched peers and participate in group play and social activities with persons diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. All volunteers are expected to actively participate in all activities and interact appropriately with the other participants. Volunteers should be enthusiastic, friendly, and willing to engage. Experience and comfort interacting with children of various ages and ability levels is preferred. Must be 18 years of age or older.
Monday through Thursday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Clerical
Clerical volunteer duties include filing, copying, running errands, answering phones, mailing, collating etc. Candidates should be mature, responsible, and reliable, and have excellent communication and computer skills. Experience in Microsoft Office preferred. Positions are available in a wide range of offices, including Nursing, Social Work, Outpatient department, Medical Records and Health Information Management. Must be 18 years of age or older.
Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Food and Nutrition
Assist the staff with food preparation and maintaining kitchen cleanliness, deliveries, and event set up. Volunteers will also assist with clerical and administrative duties. Must be 18 years of age or older to volunteer.
Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Patient Education Department
Patient Education volunteers may assist with preparing fact sheets, education materials, stocking, and marketing with materials for public display. Computer skills are required for this position. Must be 18 years of age or older to volunteer.
Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Psychosocial Rehabilitation Department
Volunteers will receive work direction and tasks from the Psychosocial Rehabilitation Specialist/
Daily, 7:00 AM-8:00 PM