University of Missouri-Columbia Program
Location:
Columbia, MOSpecialty:
Child and adolescent psychiatryACGME Code:
4052821068Overview of the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship
The Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at the University of Missouri-Columbia is designed to train individuals in the intricacies of mental health issues affecting children and adolescents. The program emphasizes understanding the development and prevention of psychopathology starting from infancy into adulthood. Trainees develop the capability to serve as effective consultants to primary care physicians and community agencies, ensuring comprehensive mental healthcare delivery.
The fellowship is structured around a cohesive educational approach, where faculty members and fellows engage in clinical responsibilities together. This encourages the exchange of ideas and collaborative learning. The philosophical approach underscored by the program is integrated psycho-social-biological, advocating for a multi-faceted diagnosis and treatment strategy that comprises a variety of therapeutic methods.
1Curriculum and Rotations
The curriculum encompasses a broad spectrum of knowledge in areas such as pharmacotherapy, dynamic psychotherapy, behavioral management, and family therapy. Furthermore, fellows are trained to evaluate and critique journal articles, facilitating a strong foundation for research acumen. Record keeping, time management, and quality assurance are also emphasized, providing fellows with essential skills required in today’s healthcare marketplace.
Fellows rotate through several inpatient and outpatient facilities, gaining exposure across different clinical environments. The program includes dedicated didactic sessions held weekly on Wednesdays, ensuring a balanced learning schedule. These sessions feature seminars, case conferences, book reviews, and journal clubs, enhancing the fellows' clinical competencies and familiarity with pivotal psychiatric conditions.
1Unique Aspects of the Fellowship
The fellowship is distinctive in its commitment to individualized training and mentorship. The faculty consists of an eclectic mix of professionals from psychiatry, psychology, and social services, underscoring the program's interdisciplinary nature. During the first year, fellows primarily engage with the inpatient population, while later they transition into outpatient settings to handle complex cases, including those involving the juvenile justice system.
Another notable feature is the program's dedication to scholarly work. Fellows are encouraged to engage in research projects, attend conferences, and actively contribute to the field of child and adolescent psychiatry. This fosters a nurturing environment where they can grow in both academic and clinical settings.
1Fellowship Experience
The fellowship experience includes evaluating children in the University Hospital ER and providing consults at the Children's Hospital. Fellows participate in hands-on learning, such as working with individuals from various age groups while utilizing telemedicine to extend care to those in underserved areas.
Additionally, fellows work at the Thompson Center, a premier facility in Missouri devoted to Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders, collaborating with an extensive healthcare team that includes pediatricians and behavioral analysts. This exposure not only enhances clinical skills but also promotes a well-rounded perspective of mental health issues.
1Visa Sponsorship and Competitiveness
The fellowship program is supportive of international medical graduates (IMGs) and provides necessary visa sponsorship for J-1 visas, which are commonly used for international medical graduate training in the United States. The program is known to be IMG-friendly, encouraging diverse backgrounds in its pool of applicants.
Given the comprehensive training, supportive environment, and diverse clinical exposure, the fellowship is quite competitive. Candidates are assessed on various criteria, including clinical experience and performance in medical school. The selection process is designed to identify individuals who will thrive in the challenging and collaborative atmosphere.
1Application Requirements
Prospective fellows should be aware of specific application requirements, including the year of medical school graduation and the maximum number of unsuccessful attempts on the USMLE Step exams. It is essential for applicants to review their qualifications thoroughly and ensure compliance with the program prerequisites.
The Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at the University of Missouri-Columbia offers a robust training experience, rooted in clinical practice and academic excellence, aimed at shaping the next generation of child and adolescent psychiatrists.
1Website
Director
Arpit Aggarwal, MDFellowship Program Director & Associate Professor Appointed Since August 2022 -Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
40hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
10hrsFirst Year Salary:
$71,121First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1.5XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
5Location
Columbia, MO
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Columbia, MO
- Crime Rate and Safety: Columbia has a slightly higher crime rate than the national average, with property crime being more common than violent crime. However, overall, it is considered a relatively safe city.
- Fun Activities: Columbia offers a variety of recreational activities including hiking, biking, and water sports at nearby lakes. The city also has a vibrant arts scene, music festivals, and diverse dining options.
- Climate: Columbia experiences all four seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. Spring and fall are mild and pleasant.
- Races and Population: The population of Columbia is diverse, with a mix of races and ethnicities. The city has a university town vibe due to the presence of the University of Missouri.
- Education: Columbia is known for its strong public school system and higher education institutions like the University of Missouri, providing educational opportunities for residents of all ages.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Columbia is reasonable compared to national averages, with affordable housing options and lower transportation costs.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Columbia is centrally located in Missouri and is within a 2-hour drive from major cities like St. Louis and Kansas City. Both cities offer a wide range of cultural, entertainment, and dining options.
- Pros: Vibrant arts and cultural scene, diverse dining options, reasonable cost of living, and proximity to larger cities.
- Cons: Slightly higher crime rate than the national average, hot summers, and cold winters.
Interview Questions
