Q: Why choose Temple?
A: At Temple, we are dedicated to developing outstanding psychiatrists who are intellectually and academically curious, compassionate, and committed to fostering well-being. Our program is dynamic and offers comprehensive exposure to a wide range of psychiatric conditions. We emphasize psychodynamic perspectives and offer extensive psychotherapy training. We also support residents in pursuing their passions, whether that be community psychiatry, urban bioethics, psychodynamic psychotherapy, or anything else. We do our best to support our residents and their individual academic interests.
Q: Would I be a good fit for the program?
A: Our work is intellectually stimulating and challenging, as we serve a diverse and complex patient population. We seek residents who thrive on hands-on experience, adapt well to challenges, and value feedback as a crucial part of learning. We have a culture of mentorship and supervision, and our team supports each other both professionally and socially. Our residents frequently enjoy spending time together outside of work, so if you’re someone who embraces the philosophy of “work hard, play harder,” you’ll fit right in.
Q: What is the patient population like?
A: North Philadelphia is a vibrant, ethnically diverse area with large Latinx/Puerto Rican and Black populations. The community faces significant economic challenges and has been deeply impacted by addiction and the opioid crisis. Temple University also draws patients from the greater Philadelphia area, resulting in a patient population that is diverse in many respects.
Q: Is Philadelphia a good place to live?
A: Philadelphia is a fantastic city with a wide range of activities and amenities, including historic sites, parks, sporting events, bars, concerts, restaurants, and museums. Its location is perfect for quick trips to nearby cities and beaches. Plus, Philadelphia is relatively affordable, allowing you to enjoy all it has to offer without stretching your budget.
Q: How does the house staff get to know each other?
A: There are numerous opportunities for residents to connect, including informal happy hours, game nights, weekly T-group sessions for interns, and various social events throughout the year. Check out our Instagram to see what we’ve been up to!
Q: Is there a mentoring program?
A: Yes, each intern is paired with an upper-year resident for guidance and support, which is just one of many sources for interns to ask common residency questions and air their concerns. Additionally, our faculty are very approachable and enjoy mentoring residents.
Q: How many PGY-1 positions are available?
A: We offer twelve PGY-1 positions each year.
Q: Where do Temple’s interns come from?
A: Our residents come from across the country and around the world.
Q: By what criteria are house staff selected?
A: We seek applicants who demonstrate professionalism, teamwork, and a strong academic record. We value a wide range of interests, excellent academic potential, and a true commitment to psychiatry.
Q: How often will I be on call?
A: More information.
Q: What do most of your residents do after completing the program?
A: Many residents pursue subspecialty fellowships, with a significant number focusing on Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Others are well-prepared to start careers in general psychiatry. Temple supports residents in achieving their career goals, whether that involves fellowship or beginning practice. For details on our alumni’s post-residency paths, visit our alumni page.
Q: What is the salary?
A: Next year’s salary has not been announced yet. You can find current salary information here.
Q: What is the department's approach to work hour reform?
A: We have a strict no-tolerance policy for work hour violations. Any duty hour violations are reported and addressed promptly to prevent recurrence. Duty hours and vacation time are tracked using New Innovations.
Q: Are meals provided?
A: Meal money is provided during night float/call shifts. Additionally, there is a resident suite equipped with call rooms, computers, snacks, and coffee/beverages.
Q: Are white coats available?
A: Yes, the department provides each house staff member with three long white coats, with the option to request a new one annually. Name stamps are also provided, and personalized fleece jackets are provided as well.
Q: Are scrubs available?
A: Yes, you can obtain scrubs from Temple University Hospital. It’s a good idea to have more than one pair. There is no required color code for call.
Q: Are lockers available?
A: Lockers are available in the resident suite, but you will need to provide your own lock.
Q: Where will I practice outpatient psychiatry?
A: Outpatient psychiatry is practiced at the Episcopal Hospital campus, located at 100 E. Lehigh Avenue, on the first floor of the Medical Arts Building. Your third year will focus on outpatient care for 12 continuous months, with dedicated faculty overseeing your educational experience. We place a strong emphasis on psychotherapy during the outpatient year of training.
Q: Is there a “scholarly requirement”?
A: Yes, residents are required to complete journal club presentations, one M&M presentation, and a grand rounds presentation before graduation. These requirements are designed to complement other scholarly activities, such as journal reviews, original research, and community service. Many residents publish or present at national meetings, with strong departmental support. For recent scholarly activities, visit our Departmental Publications and National Presentations page.
Q: Are there research electives?
A: Yes, research electives are available to all trainees throughout the four-year program. There is also an optional research track for those interested.