Community Support Services/Continuing Treatment Program
The CSS/CTP Shelter is a 30-bed residential program serving men who are currently homeless and who carry an Axis I Psychiatric Diagnosis. The program functions as a modified Therapeutic Community in which all members are expected to participate and create an environment of self help and healing as patients transition toward independence and community reintegration. Referrals to the program come from inpatient psychiatric units within Bellevue Hospital Center and from the larger shelter that encompasses CSS/CTP. The average length of stay is six to eight months. Currently, 50% of patients are diagnosed with a schizophrenic-spectrum disorder, 18% with Bipolar disorders, and 32% with depressive disorders. The majority also carry Axis II diagnoses. We serve men from a range of cultural backgrounds and currently house patients from 8 different countries.
In accordance with the interests of the extern and needs of the program, the extern will carry an individual therapy caseload, co-lead one weekly therapy group, complete at least one psychological testing battery, and will participate in the process of referring patients to appropriate aftercare. Externs also participate in treatment team meetings and attend didactic seminars in conjunction with trainees from other programs within Bellevue. Research opportunities exist for those looking to complete an empirical or theoretical project.
Training Period/Time Commitment:
The Externship begins in September and lasts through May. Each extern is required to spend 2 ½ days per week on site, including Mondays. Please be advised that the clearance process is lengthy and requires contact with the Volunteer Department 6 – 8 weeks before the start of the program.
Qualifications:
The Externship is open to doctoral students enrolled in a program of Clinical or Counseling Psychology who have completed at least their first year of study.
Application Procedure:
Please provide:
- A personal statement detailing your interest in psychology and the Men’s Shelter.
- A current C.V.
- Two letters of recommendation. At least one should be from a professor in your program.
Applications should be mailed to:
Margaret Blake, PhD
Bellevue Hospital Center/30th Street Men’s Shelter
400 East 30th Street
6th Floor East
New York, NY
We cannot accept applications before January 15 and will accept them until February 28. Please contact Dr. Blake with questions: (212) 481-4473 / mblake1799@yahoo.com