Marshall University School of Medicine Program

The Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship program at Marshall University School of Medicine is a two-year ACGME accredited training program designed to prepare well-rounded, board-eligible graduates for clinical practice. The program admits two fellows each year, establishing an intimate cohort dynamic that fosters collaboration and comprehensive learning.

During the fellowship, trainees gain extensive experience in recognizing and treating a wide array of psychopathologies prevalent in children and adolescents. They rotate through various esteemed training sites, including River Park Hospital, Hoops Family Children’s Hospital, and the Marshall Psychiatry Outpatient Clinic, along with various community settings. These experiences ensure comprehensive exposure to patients across different ages and stages of development. The fellowships encompass teamwork with families, community providers, and other healthcare professionals, enhancing the multidisciplinary approach essential in contemporary psychiatric practice 1.

Curriculum and Rotations

The program’s curriculum is robust and includes clinical experiences supplemented by a rich didactic schedule and various research opportunities. Supervision is provided by a diverse faculty comprising child and adolescent psychiatrists, pediatric neurologists, pediatricians, and child psychologists, ensuring trainees receive a well-rounded education 1.

The fellowship is divided into two training years, each with specific focus areas:

First Year (F1): At the core of the first year are outpatient experiences. Fellows complete:

• Two full days in supervised general child psychiatry clinic
• One half day in supervised child psychotherapy clinic
• One half day in Pediatric Neurology (over a span of 6 months)
• One half day in Developmental Pediatrics (over 3 months)
• One half day in an elective (over 3 months)
• One day in a school-based clinic (over 9 months)

During summer break, fellows immerse themselves in child forensic experiences and participate in the Autism Training Center Clinic observing comprehensive evaluations. Additionally, there is monthly involvement in a Gender Affirming Clinic with Pediatrics.

Second Year (F2): The focus shifts to inpatient experiences, including:

• Child Psychiatry Consults at Cabell Huntington Hospital/Hoops Family Children's Hospital and the Emergency Room
• Four half days per week at a male adolescent sex offenders’ unit (for 6 months)
• Four half days per week at Barboursville School RTC, which provides mental health services for adolescents ages 12-17 (over 12 months)

The variety of rotations ensures that fellows can manage and appreciate the complexities of mental health disorders in children and adolescents 1 8.

Research Opportunities

The fellowship program encourages active participation in research, providing fellows with opportunities to engage in scholarly activities that can influence the field of child and adolescent psychiatry. This engagement fosters a deeper understanding of current mental health challenges and interventions 1.

Application Process and Requirements

The application process for the program is conducted through the Electronic Residency Application System (ERAS). Applicants must submit several materials, including:

• ERAS Application or ECFMG-ERAS for foreign medical graduates
• Medical school transcript
• Curriculum vitae (the ERAS-generated CV is acceptable)
• Personal statement
• Current photo
• Three letters of reference from faculty members
• Documentation of passage of USMLE Step 3 or an equivalent exam

For foreign medical graduates, a valid ECFMG certificate is mandatory. The program only accepts J-1 visas and does not sponsor H1-B visas, making it a more favorable option for international applicants 3.

Salary and Benefits

Fellowship participants receive a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, which is consistent with other residency programs. Details regarding salary amounts can be outlined within official program documents available upon inquiry. This financial investment reflects the program's commitment to supporting its fellows throughout the rigorous training process.

Living in Huntington

Huntington, West Virginia, is a vibrant college town situated along the Ohio River, offering a lively downtown, excellent dining options, and beautiful parks. The appealing community atmosphere makes it an attractive place for fellows to live and work, providing a supportive environment conducive to both personal and professional growth 1.