How do I become a volunteer?

DPO continuously works to help establish a nationwide base of volunteer psychiatrists prepared to work within the disaster response system. If DPO possesses the ability to respond to a disaster in your community, you must be credentialed and trained by DPO in order to work with us. We also provide training as well consultation to local organizations of psychiatrists to help them be ready clinically and administratively to respond to disasters.  We urge that no psychiatrist, whether trained by DPO or not, "go it alone" in their disaster work.To help facilitate the process of training and organizing on a national level, DPO is seeking a "Volunteer Leader" in each state or, where appropriate, locality to be part of our Volunteer Leadership Core. They would serve as our primary contact for local volunteers as well as a local liaison for affiliations.

DPO welcomes new volunteers to participate in this fulfilling work. We currently have over 1000 volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering please review the following documents and submit an application. To better prepare ourselves and our volunteers, as well as assure quality care for our clients, we ask that you submit an application and undergo training before a disaster occurs.

For further information you may contact Dr. Grant Brenner, DPO's Volunteer Lead and DPO Representative to NYC VOAD.  Simply email info@disasterpsych.org and your email will be forwarded on or email Dr. Brenner directly - email.

Application Forms

DPO Volunteer Application [doc]-This provides DPO with basic and detailed information on you, the applicant. This information allows us to target searches for specific education and outreach projects appropriately. It also informs you of the additional materials required to complete the application process. Please download this form and mail/fax it to our office. 

DPO Volunteer Reference Form [doc] -This reference form is to be submitted by two individuals who have worked with you in a professional capacity. These forms are required for the completion of your application process. Please download this form and mail/fax it to our office.