Question about PostDoc

[NY-Psych-Dream]

Hi all,

I am about to start internship in July, but I'm thinking about postdoc. I am interested in specializing in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) / reproductive mental health. There is a T32 reproductive mental health research-focused postdoc at UNC, but I'm coming from a predominantly clinical background so I don't know how qualified I am for that position. Also, I want to stay in NY. I've noticed there are numerous women's mental health/PMADs psychiatric fellowships at major universities in the North East. They provide opportunities for research and clinical specialization. Is it possible for a PhD to apply to a psychiatric fellowship?

I know I can't prescribe. BUT - My dissertation is focused on postpartum depression. I have worked in several research labs that focus on PMAD issues. I have worked in an intensive outpatient program focusing on PMADs. I feel like I'm qualified for these programs, but I'll have a PhD not an MD!!

Thanks!

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[temppsych123]

I imagine this will probably vary by postdoc position, whether they have flexibility in who they accept or not - probably best to contact the programs you are interested in directly to find out eligibility criteria. Send a nice professional email, include why you're interested and what experiences you have, along with your CV, and hopefully they'll be willing to consider you! Good luck!

 

[NY-Psych-Dream]

I imagine this will probably vary by postdoc position, whether they have flexibility in who they accept or not - probably best to contact the programs you are interested in directly to find out eligibility criteria. Send a nice professional email, include why you're interested and what experiences you have, along with your CV, and hopefully they'll be willing to consider you! Good luck!

Thanks! That's definitely doable.

 

[deleted343839]

Is it possible for a PhD to apply to a psychiatric fellowship?

For primarily clinical fellowships, no. Most of these programs are looking for residency-trained psychiatrists, so the fellowship is basically subspecialty training.

There might be flexibility in some research fellowships, especially if the positions are 100% research and you would not be expected to generate clinical revenue. The T32 program you mentioned is a good example.

 

[Ollie123]

Agreed, email and ask. Even if they aren't designed for psychologists, they might be open to taking one with a background in the area. If you don't have a strong research background, any T32 is likely going to be a tough sell. One of the main things they usually are looking for is demonstrated commitment to a research career.

 

[NY-Psych-Dream]

Thanks all! I'm going to just start emailing in the Fall and see what pans out.