Cambridge Health Alliance Program
Specialty:
Child and adolescent psychiatryACGME Code:
4052421057The Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Cambridge Health Alliance is a well-structured two-year training program that provides fellows with comprehensive training in community psychiatry, specifically targeting children and adolescents. The program's affiliations with Harvard Medical School underscore its commitment to academic excellence and innovation in mental health care. The fellowship focuses on producing competent clinicians who are prepared to address diverse mental health needs with a commitment to health equity and community-oriented care.
Program Overview
The Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (CAP) Training Program has been established since 1967 and has a rich history of integrating psychodynamic therapies with evidence-based treatment modalities. The fellowship is designed to train highly skilled professionals in providing compassionate psychiatric care using an integrative, bio-psycho-socio-cultural approach to treatment. Fellows will not only learn various therapeutic techniques but will also be trained to engage with the broader systems of care available to families in need and to advocate for improvements in mental health services across communities 1.
Curriculum and Training Structure
The fellowship’s curriculum is comprehensive and includes a mix of clinical rotations, didactic learning, supervision, and research opportunities. During the two years, fellows engage in interactive didactics, longitudinal clinical practice, and projects designed to foster leadership and scholarship in community mental health care 3.
First Year Focus
The first year is comprised of five 10-week blocks that cover various areas of child and adolescent psychiatry, including:
- General Child and Adolescent Inpatient Psychiatry
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Psychiatric Emergency Services
- Residential Treatment
- Community Services and State Agencies
Each of these blocks allows fellows to gain expertise in specific settings, working under supervision to perform comprehensive assessments and develop treatment plans tailored to the unique needs of each child and family. Year-long longitudinal experiences in outpatient psychotherapy and psychopharmacology begin in this year, along with an emphasis on family engagement and shared decision-making resulting in effective treatment plans 5.
Second Year Focus
The second year emphasizes building upon skills developed in the first year. Second-year fellows primarily focus on outpatient treatment involving therapy modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy, family therapy, and psychodynamic therapy. There are exciting opportunities to engage in forensic evaluations in juvenile court systems and work with local schools. Weekly elective time promotes further exposure to various interests within psychiatry, and fellows will continue their ongoing quality improvement project initiated in the first year 4.
Research Opportunities
The program encourages participation in research activities and also provides numerous scholarly opportunities. Fellows can pursue their own clinical interests and may conduct projects focused on health equity, quality improvement, and pediatric mental health. Seminars and joint training involving other Harvard-affiliated programs enhance the educational experience and support collaborative scholarship efforts 3.
Unique Aspects of the Program
The Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship prides itself on its holistic approach to training, encompassing a range of perspectives including cultural competence, gender and sexuality training, and community engagement initiatives. The curriculum includes a special focus on addressing health disparities and social determinants of health, ensuring that fellows understand the broader contexts impacting child and adolescent mental health outcomes 6.
Fellowship Application Process
To apply for the fellowship program, applicants must have completed at least three years of General Psychiatry. The program requires submission through ERAS and adherence to specific documentation criteria, which includes passing the USMLE Steps 1-3 and a supportive letter from the General Psychiatry Program Director. Important to note, the program does not accept applications for H-1 visas 8.
Visa Support
The Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at CHA does provide visa support but does not sponsor H-1 visa applicants. International Medical Graduates (IMGs) interested in the fellowship must hold valid ECFMG certification and comply with U.S. immigration requirements 8.
Benefits
Fellows receive numerous benefits including a competitive salary, professional education stipends, comprehensive health and dental insurance, and generous vacation time. Other unique offerings include a lease guaranty program, reimbursement for examination fees, and support for work-life balance, including childcare assistance and on-call meal provisions 7.
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Director
Shireen F Cama, MDProgram Director, Cambridge Health Alliance Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship Appointed Since December 2020Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First Year Average Weekly Hours:
48 hoursFirst Year Maximum Consecutive Hours on Duty:
11 hoursFirst Year Salary:
$78,545First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty-to-Residents Ratio:
1.2XResidents Career Path
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Cambridge, MA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Cambridge, MA
Cambridge, MA is a vibrant city known for its intellectual environment due to the presence of top universities like Harvard and MIT. Here are some key aspects of living in Cambridge:
Safety and Crime Rate:
Cambridge has a relatively low crime rate compared to other cities in the United States, making it a safe place to live.
Fun Activities:
Cambridge offers a variety of cultural attractions, historic sites, parks, and a bustling dining scene. Residents can enjoy music venues, art galleries, and diverse culinary experiences.
Climate:
Cambridge experiences all four seasons with warm summers and cold winters. Residents can enjoy outdoor activities like biking along the Charles River during the summer and skiing in nearby areas during the winter.
Races and Population:
Cambridge is a diverse city with a mix of different races and cultures. The population includes students, professionals, and families, contributing to a lively community atmosphere.
Education:
With world-class universities in the vicinity, Cambridge provides access to educational resources and a stimulating intellectual environment.
Cost of Living:
The cost of living in Cambridge is relatively high, especially in terms of housing. However, residents benefit from the city's amenities and proximity to Boston.
Pros and Cons:
Pros: Cultural diversity, intellectual atmosphere, educational opportunities.
Cons: High cost of living, limited parking spaces.
Distance to Nearby Cities:
Cambridge is located just across the Charles River from Boston, about a 15-20 minute drive depending on traffic. Boston offers even more cultural attractions, entertainment options, and dining experiences.