A Typical Week for a Third-Year Psychiatry Resident
Monday
I start the week in psychotherapy clinic at the Civitan Building, where I also have CBT supervision. It’s a nice change of pace from typical med management and lets me focus on therapeutic skills. In the afternoon, I head to Duke Behavioral Health North Durham (BHOP) for med management continuity clinic and follow my long-term patients.
Tuesday
In the morning, I work in a UNC clinic serving patients with serious and persistent mental illness (SPMI). It’s been incredibly rewarding to collaborate with providers from across the Triangle and serve some of our most vulnerable populations. In the afternoon, we have Academic Half Day, where we dive into a variety of didactics. It’s one of my favorite parts of the week because I get to spend time with all of my co-residents! After Academic Half Day sometimes, I go on a trail walk with my wife at one of our nearby trails in the Eno River State Park.
Wednesday
I spend the morning with the Behavioral Response Team (BRT) rounding at Duke University Hospital. It’s a great opportunity to work closely with BRT nursing to prevent agitation and liaise with a variety of teams on coordinating care for patients experiencing a various behavioral disturbances. In the afternoon, I’m back at BHOP for continuity clinic.
Thursday
The morning is dedicated BHOP with the rest of the PGY3s. At this clinic, we also get special seminar from 11am to noon on a variety of topics that are relevant to outpatient. In the afternoon, we shift gears to Family Studies, a unique clinic where we have the opportunity to participate in couples or family therapy in a live supervision model. It’s consistently interesting, challenging, and rewarding, and an awesome, supportive way to learn. Usually in the evenings on Thursdays my wife and I go on dates to various restaurants in Durham. Our fan favorite is Twisted Noodles.
Friday
Admin day! I use the morning to catch up on notes, patient messages, and clinic logistics. I also have supervision for my psychodynamic and supportive therapy cases. In the afternoon, I step into my role as CL Chief, usually checking in and supporting our amazing PGY2s on their rotation (and keeping the snack game strong).
Weekend
Weekends are for recharging and exploring. My wife and I love checking out local trails around Durham or taking quick trips to the beach—it’s only a couple hours away! I’m also a big brunch person, so I try to catch up with friends over coffee and eggs benedict whenever possible.
Read other Week in the Life narratives:
- Julia Tucker, MD, PhD (PGY1)
- Soji Ojo, MD, MPH (PGY2)
- Abdelrhman “Rooma” Elnasseh, MD (PGY3)
- Molly Fessler, MD (PGY3)
- Rachel Landrum, MD (PGY3)