Dr. Peter Beitchman has worked and advocated within New York's mental health system for more than 40 years.  He is Executive Director of The Bridge, Inc., a comprehensive multi-service agency for men and women with serious mental illness located in New York City (including the homeless, persons with co-occurring mental health and substance disorders, persons who have a mental health diagnosis/substance abuse and HIV/AIDS and the mentally ill who have been in the criminal justice system).  The Bridge operates more than 50 programs in Manhattan, Queens and the Bronx providing residential, rehabilitation, clinical and support services to more than 1800 individuals each year.   

Prior to The Bridge, Dr. Beitchman held a number of key public mental health policy positions in the New York City Department of Mental Health, Mental Retardation and Alcoholism Services, the New York State Assembly and the Coalition of Voluntary Mental Health Agencies, the advocacy and technical assistance organization that represents New York City’s non-profit mental health sector.

In addition to his work at The Bridge, Dr. Beitchman is active in many mental health advocacy organizations, including the American Association for Psychosocial Rehabilitation (President), The Coalition of Behavioral Health Agencies (Executive Committee), the Urban Institute for Behavioral Health of New York City (Steering Committee), Mental Health News (Board Chair), the New York City Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers (Chair Fundraising Committee).

Dr. Beitchman received a Doctorate in Social Welfare from the City University of New York and has a Masters degree in Social Work from Hunter College School of Social Work. 

Last updated December 15, 2011.