LGBTQ+ Trainees and Allies

The Columbia Psychiatry Residency Program aims to 1) Provide Columbia psychiatry trainees with the tools and training needed to deliver competent mental health care to LGBTQ+ patients and families, 2) Train leaders in LGBTQ+ mental health, and 3) Promote LGBTQ+ trainee wellness and community.

We do this by 1) Providing training in LGBTQ+ clinical care and advocacy from faculty supervisors with expertise in LGBTQ+ care, 2) Supporting LGBTQ+ trainees’ professional development, and 3) Fostering a professional environment that supports and advocates for LGBTQ+ individuals. We also directly partner with Columbia’s Division of Gender, Sexuality, and Health.

Programs and Initiatives

  1. Advisor/Mentorship Program: A program that pairs LGBTQ+ trainees with a faculty mentor with similar interests. This includes research, clinical, or general professional development advising and mentorship.
  2. Supervisory Program: The Queer Educational Supplemental Training (QuEST) Program pairs trainees (LGBTQ+ or otherwise) with a faculty expert who can provide expert advice around LGBTQ+ issues that arise on clinical rotations.
  3. Social Events: Held for all LGBTQ+ trainees and allies to enjoy NYC's queer scene together and build community. Last year's events included a Drag Brunch. 
  4. Lecture Series: Held annually through the Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons (VP&S, Columbia’s medical school) and monthly through the Program for the Study of LGBTQ+ Health.   
  5. Didactic Series on Gender and Sexuality: 8-week course provided to all PGY3 Columbia Psychiatry Residents. See course objectives here. Additional research and training opportunities available through the Division of Gender, Sexuality, and including a 4th year elective in LGBTQ+ Mental Health.
  6. LGBTQIA+ Affinity Group: All Columbia, New York Presbyterian, Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene (RFMH), and New York State Psychiatric Institute (NYSPI) employees are encouraged to attend.

For more information

All inquiries can be sent to Jacob.Perlson@nyspi.columbia.edu

Faculty Mentors: Oliver Stroeh, MD and Walter Bockting, PhD, LP