Dear Applicant,
Thanks so much for taking the time to learn about our psychiatry residency program. I'm truly glad you're here.
If there's one thing I'd want you to know from the start, it's that this is a supportive, down-to-earth, genuinely connected and FUN place to train. We take our work seriously, but we also take care of each other.
We value teamwork, comaraderie, and mutual respect. Our residents are not just colleagues – they are collaborators and friends. We believe that building a career in psychiatry should not only be meaningful but also enjoyable. You'll find that our culture supports wellness, celebrates milestones and encourages joy, even during the most demanding parts of training. We work hard, but we also laugh a lot.
We're based in the Washington, DC area, which gives you access to a rich variety of patients, settings and experiences. Our primary sites are both teaching hospitals: Inova Fairfax Hospital and the Northern Virginia Mental Health Institute (NVMHI). Inova is an extensive nonprofit community health system, and NVMHI is the state psychiatric hospital in this area. Together, our primary sites offer a unique blend of academic medicine and real-world community psychiatry.
We emphasize teamwork, camaraderie and learning from one another – not competition. I think that's why so many of our current learners say these are their favorite rotation sites.
Our attendings include many double-boarded physicians who bring a wide lens to supervision and mentorship. You'll be supported to grow in whatever direction you’re passionate about – whether it's advocacy, research, education, clinical care or something entirely your own.
You need help solving a tough clinical situation? You want to talk about career plans? You need someone to walk your dog on a random Tuesday when you can't get out of clinic? I am that person. I am here for you. We are in this together.
In short, if you join us, you will be challenged clinically, supported personally and inspired daily. We are committed to training thoughtful and compassionate psychiatrists who can practice effectively in diverse settings and make a meaningful difference in their communities.
Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have questions. We'd love to tell you more about what makes this place so special.
Warmly,
Rachel Bronsther, MD
Chair, Residency Program Director