Pawsitive News: Big Ben Joins the Team at Madison County Mental Health Clinic

Wampsville, NY – May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and while we’re hard at work raising awareness, we’re also thrilled to introduce the newest — and undoubtedly the furriest — member of our team at the Madison County Mental Health Clinic in Wampsville. Please give a warm welcome to Big Ben, a 4-year-old domestic shorthair cat who’s not only been adopted by the clinic staff, but is now officially part of our wellness squad.

Big Ben first padded his way into our lives through Whisker Wednesdays, a program launched in October 2024 in partnership with Wanderers’ Rest Humane Association (WRHA). Each week, an adoptable animal spends the day at the clinic, enjoying a break from the shelter while offering some much-needed snuggles, stress relief, and smiles to our clients and staff. It’s been a win-win from the start.

Big Ben was surrendered to WRHA a few months ago, and staff there immediately knew he had star potential. When he made his clinic debut in early April, he made himself right at home — charming everyone with his calm demeanor, affectionate nature, and obvious enthusiasm for treats and attention.

Now a permanent fixture in our halls, offices and on laps, Big Ben is more than just a cute face. He takes his job seriously — greeting clients at the front desk, sitting in on sessions, and occasionally supervising from the top of his cat tower. Whether he’s trailing behind staff like a tiny supervisor or curled up for a power nap, Big Ben brings a sense of comfort and joy wherever he goes.

“Big Ben is the purr-fect addition to our clinic,” said Teisha Cook, LCSW-R, Director of Community Mental Health Services. “The staff adores him, and he thrives on the affection. We’ve seen firsthand how much calmer and more open clients become during sessions when Ben is nearby. He’s made a real difference.”

Big Ben does have a special health consideration — he lives with Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). While FIV weakens a cat’s immune system, it isn’t contagious to humans, and it just means he needs to be the only cat in his space. Luckily, the Mental Health Clinic is now officially a one-cat workplace — and Big Ben is clearly the right cat for the job.

Sarah Murdie, Director of WRHA, added, “We’re overjoyed that Big Ben has found a new home and career! Our ongoing partnership with Madison County has led to several successful adoptions. These programs don’t just help animals — they bring so much to the people who interact with them, too.”

So next time you stop by the clinic, don’t forget to say hello to Big Ben. He might be on break in his tower, but if you’re lucky, you’ll catch him at his post — purring, posing, and spreading good vibes.

Welcome to the team, Big Ben — we’re so glad you’re here.

If you or someone you know would like to get started with services, visit the Madison County Mental Health Clinic in Wampsville from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Thursday.  Or simply call 315-366-2327.