Emory University School of Medicine Program

The child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship program at Emory University School of Medicine is a comprehensive two-year training trajectory aimed at developing proficient and skilled child psychiatrists. Trainees engage in various clinical activities alongside didactic experiences that emphasize compassionate care for children, adolescents, and their families. Central to the program's mission is the commitment to graduate knowledgeable, professional, and ethical child and adolescent psychiatrists capable of delivering high-quality, evidence-based, and culturally competent care 1.

The program encompasses a multitude of training sites across the vibrant Atlanta area, allowing fellows to interact with a diverse patient population. Through these rich experiences, fellows not only enhance their clinical capabilities but also cultivate skills in teaching, research, and advocacy 1.

Curriculum

The fellowship provides a structured curriculum that unfolds over two years. During the first year, the focus mainly lies on inpatient and consult/liaison (C/L) psychiatry, with additional outpatient experiences woven into the training. Rotations are typically organized into 1-2 month blocks, allowing for immersive learning. Notable components of the first year include:

• C/L Psychiatry at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta: A four-month intensive experience, divided into three months at Egleston Hospital and one at Scottish Rite Hospital.
• Inpatient, Partial Hospitalization, and Residential Treatment: Fellows engage in various settings, including residential programming that emphasizes Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and inpatient care for adolescents facing a range of mental health challenges.
• Outpatient Experiences: Exposure to various outpatient clinics, including dedicated services for children with neurodevelopmental disorders and autism spectrum disorders.

The second year of training consists of longitudinal outpatient experiences and further clinical opportunities across settings such as community mental health organizations, private practice, and educational institutions 3.

Unique Aspects of the Program

A distinctive feature of the Emory Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship is its focus on holistic trainee development. The program boasts opportunities for mentorship, scholarship, and advocacy, ensuring that fellows receive comprehensive training tailored to their individual career goals. This environment not only fosters personal growth but also emphasizes the importance of leadership within the field of psychiatry 1.

Moreover, the fellowship is set against the backdrop of Atlanta, a city recognized for its cultural diversity, robust arts scene, affordable cost of living, and access to numerous outdoor recreational activities. This vibrant environment enhances the quality of life for fellows while they pursue their professional training 7.

Visa Support and Types

The program is equipped to support international medical graduates and offers assistance with visa sponsorship for trainees. Specifically, the program may sponsor J-1 and H-1B visas, aligning with the needs of international trainees seeking to engage in advanced training in the United States 4.

Application Requirements

Prospective fellows are required to meet specific eligibility criteria. Applicants must have passed Part III of the USMLE by the match date and must be eligible for a Georgia medical license. A valid DEA license is also necessary. Required documentation for a complete application encompasses:

• MyERAS application
• Letters of recommendation (minimum of three, with one from a psychiatry program director)
• Personal statement
• Medical school transcript
• Current Curriculum Vitae
• USMLE and COMLEX transcripts
• ECFMG Status Report (for international medical graduates)

Interviews are an integral part of the selection process, allowing applicants to meet faculty and current fellows firsthand, thereby gaining insight into the program's culture and expectations 4.

Competitiveness and Friendly Environment

The fellowship at Emory is characterized as highly competitive. However, the program is also known to be friendly towards both Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) and international medical graduates (IMG). The inclusive nature of the program provides a supportive environment conducive to successful training and integration 5.

On-Call Schedule

During the first year, fellows participate actively in the psychiatry consult/liaison service at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, with an on-call schedule designed to be manageable. Call responsibilities are generally limited to weekdays and occur on a rotating basis, with attending support readily available for consultation 6.