Are you…
- A survivor of postpartum depression, anxiety or other perinatal mood and anxiety disorder and want to provide help and hope to those going through a similar experience?
- Personally touched by PMADs through witnessing a love one’s experience?
- Have professional experience working with perinatal population?
- Interested in broadening your life experiences?
- Wanting to give back to your community?
We rely extensively on a state-wide network of dedicated volunteers who are the backbone of the organization. Volunteers provide direct support to new mothers, parents and their families experiencing a difficult time in their lives AND provide behind-the-scenes support to PSVa in a variety of administrative duties. All volunteers have a positive impact on the lives of new and expectant mothers, parents and their families.
PSVa volunteers provide direct peer and informational support to affected individuals and families, or administrative support to PSVa in fundraising, community education, event planning, or another role. There are volunteer opportunities that align with almost any skill set or interest. We are committed to creating volunteer experiences that serve both Virginia families and PSVa volunteers. Through PSVa, you will find a dedicated, caring community of people who are working together to reduce the impact of perinatal mental health issues on families and communities in Virginia.
Click on the role below to learn more!
Interested in helping new/pregnant birthing people and their families?
You can respond to calls/texts on the Warmline, connect one on one in our peer mentor group, or facilitate an in-person support group.
Interested in spreading the word about PMADs and PSVA?
Join our team of outreach volunteers who provide information to doctors’ offices, local moms’ groups and community events.
Interested in projects and administration?
This could include fundraising, donor relations, grant writing, and other administrative tasks. Please contact Kamisha Battle-Jackson directly if you have experience or interest.
We are excited to talk with interested volunteers!
To become a Volunteer with PSVa:
- Complete the PSVa Volunteer Interest Form The information provided is confidential and will help us learn more about you, your interests and your background.
- Complete the 2024 Volunteer Application process (submit references, schedule intake interview).
- Complete the 2024 Volunteer Agreement.
- Attend Social Support Training in its entirety.
- If providing a Direct Service, attend Direct Service Training.
- Be placed and serve perinatal families of Virginia!
If you have any questions, contact Kamisha Battle-Jackson!
Social Support Training
To volunteer with PSVa in any capacity, it is required to attend the Social Support Training. We offer these at least 4 times per year.
Topics include:
• Perinatal Mental Health: Not Just Postpartum Depression
• Risk factors & Vulnerable Populations
• PMADs Spectrum of Illness
• Partners & Depression/Anxiety
• Impact of Untreated PMADs
• Talking about Symptoms
• Perinatal Circle of Healing
• Providing Social Support
• Confronting Tough Situations
• Emergency Protocols
• Role Play Scenarios
Direct Service Trainings
Volunteers who have completed the PSVa Social Support Training and would like to volunteer as a Support Group Facilitator, Warmline Volunteer or Peer Mentor are required to complete an additional 60-90 minute service training with the program coordinator.
Topics Include:
- Roles and responsibilities of specific role
- Program specific requirements
- Understanding red flags that require hand-off to trained professionals and knowledge of these resources
- How to establish and maintain personal boundaries
- The importance of debriefing and self-care