Introducing a psychosomatic medicine interest group for psychiatry residents
Neil V Puri1, Pierre Azzam1, Priya Gopalan1
1The Menninger Clinic, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX; Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA.
Background:
Having gained subspecialty certification in 2003, the field of psychosomatic medicine (PM) addresses the mental health needs of individuals who suffer from general medical conditions. The rising prevalence of chronic illness, along with trends in medical delivery toward more collaborative models of care, underscores the value of recruitment to PM specialty programs.
Objectives:
To foster interest and education in PM, we have developed and implemented a Psychosomatic Medicine Interest Group for trainees within a psychiatry residency program.
Results:
Participants have found the Psychosomatic Medicine Interest Group to be an enjoyable experience that has improved their clinical practice and interest in PM.
Conclusion:
The Psychosomatic Medicine Interest Group has also been a successful vehicle to enhance clinical knowledge and mentoring opportunities during training, while bolstering residents' desire to pursue a career in PM.
Related Concept Videos
Psychosurgery
Historical Development of Psychosurgery
In the 1930s, Portuguese neurologist Antonio Egas Moniz introduced a surgical procedure designed...
Psychotherapy
Psychodynamic Therapy
Treatment Strategies for Psychological Disorders
Psychological therapies focus on modifying emotions, thoughts, and behaviors through talking, interpreting, listening, rewarding, challenging, and modeling. Clinical psychologists, counselors, and social workers commonly practice psychotherapy. Clinical...
Psychosis: Goals of Pharmacotherapy
Acute Coronary Syndrome IV: Interprofessional Care


