NY courts program provides mental health and case management services

Chief Judge Janet DiFIore acknowledged the ongoing struggles of court staff one year into the pandemic. AP Photo/Mike Groll

By Rachel Vick

Court staff and attorneys dealing with complicated and intense situations a year into the COVID pandemic can seek support in the legal community, Chief Judge Janet DiFiore said Monday

During her weekly address, DiFiore highlighted the “Work Life Assistance Program,” an initiative offering a variety of services — including substance abuse, marital and mental health counseling — for non-judicial employees and their families through Corporate Counseling Associates.

The CCA also helps connect employees with reputable childcare providers and nursing homes to ease concerns in situations that are high-stress, even outside extreme circumstances.

DiFiore commended employees for doing their best under the most difficult of services and said court leaders remain “mindful of our responsibility and our desire to assist our employees and their families through these challenges.”

“While nothing has been easy for any of us this past year, and while COVID-19 has certainly taken its toll in ways big and small, our judges and professional staff pressed on through enormous challenges,” DiFiore said. “In fact, it has been very challenging to maintain our mental health and emotional well-being in the face of the disruption, stress and anxiety of the past year.” 

DiFiore also praised leaders including Chief of Operations Nancy Barry; Director of Human Resources Carolyn Grimaldi and Deputy Director Anne Johnson-Endy “for their commitment to maintaining a strong and vibrant Work Life Assistance Program.”

The WorkLife Assistance Program provides 24/7 service and can be reached at 1-800-833-8707.