Residency Program – Southern Winds Hospital

PSYCHIATRY RESIDENCY PROGRAM

 

  • Requirements

  • Contact Us

  • How To Apply

  • Resident Selection Policy

  • Residents Criteria For Graduation

  • Medical Students’ Clerkships Opportunities

    • Request A Rotation

How can I apply to your program?

We accept applications through the ERAS program. We do not offer any positions outside of the NRMP match.

Are there moonlighting opportunities available?

Yes, residents who show progress on their PRITE scores from PGY 1 to PGY 3 and are in good academic standing as defined by the program are eligible to moonlight with the permission of the program director.

What is the cut off point for year of graduation from medical school?

No more than 5 years.

What other documents would be required?

The application package must contain:

  • MSPE or Dean’s letter

  • Medical school transcript

  • National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) transcript (USMLE Steps 1, 2 and 3, if available), NBOME, or ECFMG transcript/certification

    Personal statement

  • Curriculum vitae

  • 3 letters of recommendation no older than 3 years

Do you accept applications from foreign medical graduates?

We accept applications from all qualified US and International graduates.

What visas do you support?

None at the moment.

What EMR do you use?

We use Health Care Systems (HCS) for all of our medical records.

What is it like to live in Miami?

Miami is a great city to live in, having the pros of living in a big metropolitan area with few cons. There are beautiful beaches, plenty of restaurants, parks, festivals, and things to do around the city whether you are single or will be arriving with a family.

For more information, see https://www.hellolanding.com/blog/miami/

How many CME days do residents receive?

Residents receive 5 CME days per year. Residents are provided a stipend each year for educational purposes including conferences, training materials, etc..

Do residents have an opportunity to teach in this program?

Yes. We strongly believe that teaching is an excellent tool for learning. All residents are encouraged to support and teach their colleagues, faculty, and medical students.

Residents have the opportunity to teach University medical students who rotate on the units during their 3rd and 4th year electives.

Is there a cut-off score for application?

There is no cut-off score for application. To be ranked, applicants must have passing scores for Steps 1, 2 and 3 of USMLE and/or COMLEX ranging in the 200’s on their first attempt.

IMG applicants must be ECFMG certified to qualify for an interview. Although no specific minimum passing score is required, applicants must submit their performance profiles of the USMLE for review, and scores, as well as number of attempts, are considered in ranking.

Will Your Program Sponsor My Visa?

Our program will consider J-1 VISAs sponsored through the ECFMG. We do not sponsor VISAs at this time.

 

LETTER FROM THE DIO

 

Thank you for expressing your interest in our institution for your postgraduate medical education. Southern Winds Hospital has been dedicated to delivering comprehensive mental health care to the community for nearly three decades and proudly serves as the sponsoring institution for ACGME accredited programs. Our overarching mission is two-fold: to provide high-quality patient care to diverse populations and to offer robust Psychiatry training programs for physicians that operate in full compliance with ACGME requirements.

Postgraduate medical education is seamlessly integrated into our healthcare delivery system. It is within this context that physicians in training develop the skills, knowledge, and attitudes essential for proficiency in all facets of clinical competencies. This journey requires the resident or physician in training to take personal responsibility for the care of individual patients. Learning activities entail meaningful interactions with patients, all under the guidance and supervision of designated faculty members.

Southern Winds Hospital is firmly committed to nurturing and advancing Graduate Medical Education. We foster a culture characterized by professionalism, competency-based education, quality improvement, scholarships, and a commitment to cultural diversity. Oversight of resident assignments and the quality of the learning and working environment extends throughout all participating sites. We provide a supportive learning and working environment in which residents are encouraged to voice concerns and offer feedback confidentially, as appropriate. SWH and its ACGME-accredited programs are dedicated to placing trainees in environments that prioritize patient safety, healthcare quality, and the successful fulfillment of resident requirements, as well as program goals and objectives.

In close collaboration with the Graduate Medical Education Committee (GMEC), the Designated Institutional Official (DIO) assumes the responsibility of directing and supervising all GME operations. This is done in strict adherence to ACGME Requirements, encompassing core competencies and the achievement of specialty- specific milestones crucial for promotion and graduation. The Sponsoring Institution has established a comprehensive manual of policies and procedures, encompassing all protocols related to recruitment, selection, eligibility, and appointment. These policies are designed to align seamlessly with ACGME Institutional and Common Program Requirements, and they are meticulously monitored across all our ACGME-accredited programs to ensure compliance. Our institution is equally committed to upholding GME policies, which encompass a wide range of areas, including resident supervision, moonlighting, work hours, wellbeing, fatigue mitigation, professionalism, patient safety, and numerous other protocols.

Should you have any inquiries or require further information, please do not hesitate to visit us or get in touch with our Office of GME team. We are here to assist you and eagerly anticipate the opportunity to welcome you into our training programs. On behalf of the DIO and the entire GME Department Team, we extend a warm welcome to you as a member of the Southern Winds Hospital family!

Sincerely,

Ana Bovo

GME Designated Institutional Official (DIO)

 

Letter from Program Director

 

We appreciate your interest in the Psychiatry Residency Program at Southern Winds Hospital (SWH). We commend your choice of Psychiatry as the field for your postgraduate residency training. Psychiatry is a noble medical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis, management, and treatment of emotional, mental, and behavioral conditions. It employs the biopsychosocial model of patient care, an interdisciplinary approach that considers the interconnectedness of biology, psychology, emotions, and socio-environmental factors.

The SWH Psychiatry Residency Program is an ACGME-accredited postgraduate program designed to provide residents with comprehensive training in General Psychiatry over a four-year period. The program’s curriculum has been meticulously structured in accordance with ACGME requirements, core competencies, and specialty-specific milestones. Our ultimate aim is to thoroughly prepare residents for the board certification examination administered by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) and to graduate the next generation of psychiatrists who are well-equipped to meet the mental health needs of the community across various psychiatric specialties.

The success of this program hinges on the gradual preparation of our residents to fulfill program objectives, adhere to GME institutional policies and procedures, and meet the stringent requirements set forth by the ACGME and the Board. Residents will receive training in a safe educational environment that facilitates the successful completion of their clinical assignments and the attainment of program goals and objectives. Under graduated supervision, residents will assume responsibility for a sufficient number of patients, enabling them to manage both acute and chronic psychiatric conditions effectively. Our residents will have the opportunity to fulfill their educational and clinical responsibilities while also enjoying dedicated time for other aspects of their educational program and personal lives.

Structured clinical experiences have been thoughtfully organized to provide residents with opportunities to conduct initial psychiatric assessments, participate in the diagnostic process, and follow patients throughout their treatment journey, which includes monitoring the evolution, stability, and recovery of their psychiatric conditions.

If you have any concerns or questions related to our training program, please do not hesitate to reach out to our GME office staff. We deeply appreciate your interest in our program and wish you the very best in your residency training as you prepare for independent practice in the field of Psychiatry.

Sincerely,

Juan Oms, MD

Juan Oms, MD

Psychiatry Residency Program Director

 

GME MISSION AND AIMS

 

The primary mission of SWH is to deliver exceptional patient care to a wide range of diverse populations while simultaneously providing comprehensive postgraduate medical programs. These programs are designed to operate in strict adherence to ACGME requirements.

The mission of the Graduate Medical Education Division is to establish well-structured postgraduate residency programs, specializing in Psychiatry. These programs aim to foster the ethical, professional, and personal growth of our trainees while ensuring the provision of safe and high-quality patient care. Our top priority within the GME division is to guarantee an advanced level of education marked by excellence in clinical services, patient safety, competency-based teaching, and scholarship opportunities. Our institution, along with our affiliated participating sites, is unwavering in its commitment to preparing competent physicians. These physicians will not only become eligible for board certification in their chosen specialty but will also be equipped to deliver compassionate mental health care to patients from diverse backgrounds, all within the context of family and community.

The overarching purpose of the Graduate Medical Education (GME) Office is to maintain ACGME-accredited educational programs aimed at preparing the next generation of Psychiatrists. Our ultimate goal is to facilitate the professional and personal development of our trainees. We strive to create an environment in which they can excel in medical services, teaching skills, quality improvement, and scholarship endeavors while upholding the highest ethical and professional standards of practice.

 

STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT TO GME

 

SWH is an ACGME accredited sponsoring institution, dedicated to provide quality patient care, education and research, providing residents/fellows with a comprehensive postgraduate education that enables them to accomplish their residency programs, ACGME milestones, competencies, and specialty board eligibility requirements in order to graduate next generations of physicians with the highest academic, clinical and professional standards of Medicine who are able to serve the medical needs of diverse populations.

The sponsoring institution is committed to:

    1. Support an organized administrative system to supervise the GME Division, which is led by the Designated Institutional Official (DIO) and the Graduate Medical Education Committee to oversee all programs operations and its compliance with the ACGME requirements.
    1. Maintain substantial compliance with the ACGME institutional requirements, common program requirements and specialty specific requirements. These requirements are established through procedures and guidelines included in the Institutional GME manual of policies and procedures and in each postgraduate program manual.
    1. Assist programs in reaching compliance with ACGME Program Requirements.
    1. Create an environment which encourages a culture of safety, quality and self-improvement, professionalism, long learning education and scholarships.
    1. Maintain excellence in both medical education and patient care by providing the necessary resources to support GME including organizational hierarchy, structure, funds, clinical and administrative systems, human resources, clinical sites, salary, benefits, space, technology and educational supplies and protected time to allow the effective supervision of the programs.
    1. Provide leadership, organizational structure, and resources to enable residents/fellows to achieve their best potential and personal development under the supervision of the faculty.
    1. Provide an ethical, professional and safe educational environment in which curricular requirements and applicable requirements for scholarly activities, competencies, milestones, and specialty board requirements can be met.
    1. Encourage our trainees, faculty, and graduates to provide compassionate care to the underserved communities, improve access to care, decrease health care disparities, and advance the science of medicine through research and scholarly inquiry.
    1. As essential components of this commitment, the sponsoring institution shall maintain regular assessment of the quality of its GME programs, educational and clinical environment, policies, residents/fellow’s wellbeing and performance, and the use of outcome assessments results for continuous programs improvement.

 

Participating Sites

Site 1: Southern Winds Hospital (SWH) Sponsoring Institution/Primary Training Site

Site 2: Keralty Hospital (Consultation Liaison)

Site 3: Roa-Licea MD, PA. Medical Office (Outpatient Primary Care)

Site 4: South Florida Integrative Medicine (Outpatient Psychiatry and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry)

Site 5: Integrated Healthcare Services (Outpatient Psychiatry)

Site 6: Doral Neurological Service (Neurology Rotations)

Site 7: Palm Medical Center (Outpatient Primary Care)

Site 8: Miami Rescue Mission Clinic

Site 9: Nicklaus Childrens Hospital

 

Fast Facts

Initial Accreditation

Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education

Total Residents

40

Duration of Residency

4 years

 

Curriculum

We believe the source of our residents’ strong clinical capabilities is the extensive clinical experience they at Southern Winds Hospital. All requirements of the residency review committee of the ACGME and American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology are met or exceeded.

Psychiatry resident didactics schedule includes a four-hour slot for major didactics that is offered each week on Friday’s from 12:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Schedule for the Educational Day for Residents

In-Person and Remote Learning via Zoom

  • 12 – 1 pm: Grand Rounds

  • 1 – 2 pm: Psychotherapy

  • 2 – 3 pm: Educational Module

  • July – September: Psychopharmacology, Neurology, PRITE review
  • October – December: CL Psychiatry, ED psychiatry, Addiction
  • January – March: Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
  • April – June: Forensic, Geriatric, Miscellaneous (Biostats, Genetics, Ethics)
  • 3 – 4 pm: Resident Professional Development, Resident Wellbeing activities

 

Didactics overview

PGY-1

  • PGY-1 Orientations. Electronic Medical Record and Documentation Training.
  • Review of the Institutional and Residency Program Manual of Policies.
  • Review of the ACGME Requirements, Competencies and Milestones.
  • Professionalism and Cultural Competency.
  • Neurology Lectures (Weekly through rotations at participating site)
  • Primary Care Conferences (Weekly through rotation at participating site)

DAILY

  • Morning Report Inpatient Unit-Junior Level.
  • Transitions of Care /Hands Off Meetings. Junior Level.
  • Clinical Teaching Rounds. Inpatient Unit -Junior Level.

WEEKLY (During weekly Protected Didactic Day)

  • Core Psychiatry Lectures.
  • Geriatric Psychiatry Lectures.
  • Psychiatry In Service Exam (PRITE and Ninja Guide) Review.
  • Psychotherapy and Neurodevelopment lectures.

OTHERS

  • Psychiatry Interviews Seminars (Monthly)
  • Journal Club. (Monthly)
  • Research / QI Lecture/Workshops (Monthly)
  • M&M Conference. (Bi-monthly)
  • Psychiatry Grand Round (Bi-monthly)
  • Teaching Skills and Leadership Lectures. (Quarterly)
  • Professionalism and Practice Management (Annually) PGY2

DAILY (Inpatient Service)

  • Morning Report Inpatient Unit.
  • Transitions of Care /Hands Off Meetings.
  • Clinical Teaching Rounds.

WEEKLY (Weekly Protected Didactic Day)

  • Core Psychiatry Lectures.
  • Geriatric Psychiatry Lectures.
  • Psychiatry In Service Exam (PRITE and Ninja Guide) Review.
  • Psychotherapy Seminars.
  • Neurodevelopment Lectures.

PGY-2

  • Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Lectures (through rotation)
  • Consultation Liaison Lectures (through rotation)

OTHERS

  • Psychiatry Interviews Seminars (Monthly)
  • Journal Club-Junior Level Participation. (Monthly)
  • Research / QI Lecture/Workshops (Monthly)
  • M&M Conference-Junior Level Participation. (Bi-monthly)
  • Psychiatry Grand Round (Bi-monthly)
  • Teaching Skills and Leadership Lectures. (Quarterly)
  • Professionalism and Practice Management (Annually) PGY-3

WEEKLY (Weekly Protected Didactic Day)

  • Core Psychiatry Lectures. PGY-3 Level.
  • Geriatric Psychiatry Lectures. PGY-3 level.
  • Board (ABPN) Review. PGY-3 level.
  • Psychotherapy Series. PGY-3 level.
  • Neurodevelopment Lectures. PGY-3 level.

PGY-3

  • Outpatient Psychiatry Case Discussion (Weekly, through rotation)

OTHERS. PGY-3 level of Participation.

  • Psychiatry Interviews/Clinical Skills Seminars (Monthly)
  • Journal Club. (Monthly, 4th Session)
  • Research / QI Lecture/Workshops (Monthly, 3rd Session)
  • M&M Conference. (Bi-monthly)
  • Psychiatry Grand Round (Bi-monthly)
  • Teaching Skills and Leadership Lectures. (Quarterly)
  • Professionalism and Practice Management (Annually) PGY-4 DAILY
  • Morning Report Inpatient Unit. Supervisory Role. PGY-4 Level.
  • Transitions of Care /Hands Off Meetings. PGY-4 Level.
  • Clinical Teaching Rounds. Supervisory Role. PGY-4 Level.

WEEKLY (Weekly Protected Didactic Day)

  • Core Psychiatry Lectures. PGY-4 Level.
  • Geriatric Psychiatry Lectures Series. PGY-4 Level.
  • Board (ABPN) Review. PGY-4 Level.
  • Advanced Psychotherapy Series/Seminars. PGY-4 Level.

OTHERS

  • Psychiatry Interviews/Clinical Skills Seminars (Monthly). PGY-4 level.
  • Journal Club. (Monthly, 4th Session)
  • Research / QI Lecture/Workshops (Monthly, 3rd Session)
  • M&M Conference. (Bi-monthly)
  • Psychiatry Grand Round (Bi-monthly)
  • Teaching Skills and Leadership Lectures. (Quarterly)
  • Professionalism and Practice Management (Annually)

All our residents and faculty have access to Ninja Guide to PRITE, PRITE and ABPN boards and Vignettes to help them prepare for PRITE and Boards.

 

Research

 

The Southern Winds Hospital’s Department of Psychiatry actively promotes an enthusiasm for academic endeavors. Our primary objective is to nurture research capabilities and enhance the knowledge base of our residents, while also fulfilling the core objectives of general psychiatry training.

 

Upon graduation, each resident is anticipated to deliver a grand rounds presentation and complete a minimum of one scholarly project, which could take the form of a poster, book chapter, oral presentation, or published paper. These presentations are conducted at various levels, including local (MetroHealth’s Annual Research Symposium), regional (local and state psychiatric associations), and national (APA, AACAP, AAGP, APS) events. In recent years, our residents have showcased their work at all of these levels.

 

To support our residents in their scholarly pursuits, the program offers faculty mentorship to all participants. We also facilitate scholarly activities by allocating annual conference funds, covering poster production expenses, and granting additional time for conference and meeting attendance.

 

Moreover, the program designates a Quality Improvement and Wellbeing Chief. This individual not only oversees wellbeing initiatives but also plays a pivotal role in initiating at least one quality improvement project aimed at enhancing patient care and operational efficiency within the program. This project necessitates the active involvement of all residents.

 

Post Graduate Year (PGY)

 

PGY-1

 

During the initial year, there are six four-week blocks dedicated to various rotations. These rotations encompass Psychiatry (four blocks in inpatient Psychiatry, four blocks in outpatient medicine, two blocks in Emergency Psychiatry, and two blocks in neurology). Each week, a portion of time is reserved for educational activities, including lectures, seminars, and case conferences. The program also incorporates demonstrations and departmental scientific meetings. Clinical duties on the inpatient services are carried out under the direct guidance of attending physicians assigned to the specific unit.

 

The training is structured to equip residents with a practical understanding of the assessment, diagnostic, and treatment techniques employed in psychiatry. This first year places a strong emphasis on the provision of quality patient care and is characterized by a substantial degree of individual supervision, complemented by the didactic curriculum.

 

PGY-2

 

During the second year, residents persist in their hospital-based inpatient psychiatry rotations, which now encompass specialized experiences in various areas, including Inpatient Psychiatry, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Consultation Liaison Psychiatry, Emergency Psychiatry, Addiction Psychiatry, and Geriatric Psychiatry. Additionally, residents have the opportunity to participate in a half-day per week of outpatient psychotherapy clinic during this stage of their training. The weekly schedule allocates four hours to dedicated didactic activities, with the remainder of the time being devoted to clinical exposure and experience.

 

PGY-3

 

In the third year of psychiatric residency, the focus shifts toward outpatient experiences. Residents are assigned to full-time duties, spending two days per week at Agape Network and another two days at South Florida Integrative Medicine. The remaining half-day is designated for protected didactic activities.

 

PGY-4

 

The fourth year of the residency program is dedicated to advanced treatment and research exposure, along with ongoing inpatient and outpatient experiences. Southern Winds Hospital manages the residents’ weekly clinical schedules, which alternate throughout the year. Residents have the opportunity to select three blocks of elective time, in addition to committing to at least one block as a junior attending on a psychiatry service of their preference. Furthermore, a half-day is safeguarded for didactic activities. It’s worth noting that the Child & Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship can commence in the fourth year.

 

Salary & Benefits

Psychiatry Residency Salary

Salary for 2024-2025 is listed below. Each year resident salaries are increased by $1,000.

  • PGY-1 – $53,500
  • PGY-2 – $54,500
  • PGY-3 – $55,500
  • PGY-4 – $56,500

Vacation

Residents: 4 weeks of paid leave per academic year. Vacations must be requested in 1-week (Monday-Friday) blocks 120 days prior and approved by the Program Director and Program Coordinator. Specific rotations or calendar dates may be excluded from vacations as determined by GME Administration.

Mental Wellness Days

Residents are strongly encouraged to prioritize their mental well-being. They are provided with up to six days of Mental Health and wellness time to use when they feel the need to address potential overwhelm during their residency.

Educational Expense Allowance (Educational Stipend)

Up to $1,000 during each year of residency for educational expenses.

Reimbursements

Initial Florida Medical Licensure

American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology Exam Registration

PGY-4 residents applying for certification by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology are eligible reimbursement of a portion of the cost of the exam.

Stipends for National Meeting Presentations

Residents who have their research abstract accepted for publication at a national meeting are eligible for a stipend in meeting expense reimbursement.

APA and Membership Dues

See residency handbook for details.

Food, Parking, On-call Rooms, Uniforms and PPE

The Education Office provides a weekly stipend of $50 on a pre-paid card for meals while on outside rotations. While rotating at Southern Winds Hospital, all meals are provided. Convenient and safe on-call rooms are readily available at all sites. White coats are provided without laundry service. Residents have easy access to any PPE required for patient care, e.g., N95 masks, face shields, eye guards, elastomeric respirators, gowns, gloves and hand and surface sanitizers. Supplies are abundant.

Family Medical/Caregiver Leave

Residents and Fellows are eligible for paid family medical/caregiver leave according to the vacation and leave policy. Review ACGME Leave policies

Other Benefits Residents and Fellows will also receive the following

  • Comprehensive Health, Vision and Dental Insurance: at lower monthly premiums for resident physicians and their eligible dependents
  • Paid Time Off for Vacation, Personal, Paternal, Caregiver and Bereavement Leaves
  • ACLS, BLS and PLS Recertification (in-house & no cost)
  • Workplace Violence Prevention Training
  • Paid Orientation
  • Free Parking
  • Secure, Private Call Rooms Southern Winds Hospital
  • Personalized Embroidered White Coat Provided
  • Resident Support Services, Including:
    • Confidential Grievance Reporting
    • Peer Support
    • Extensive Welcome and Orientation Sessions

 

RESIDENT PROFILES

 

Ketsia Saintil, MD:

Clinical Interests: I am motivated to broaden my knowledge on the biological effects of childhood trauma. My clinical interest is in child and adolescent psychiatry.

Other Interests /Hobbies: I find great passion in helping the underserved communities and guiding people towards the way to recover hope and discover their true purpose in life.

Other Interests /Hobbies: I enjoy journaling, writing short stories, singing, contemplating the wonders of nature. Mostly I love spending time with my family.

Maria Cabreja Castillo, MD:

Clinical Interests: Neuropsychiatry, Community/Cultural Psychiatry, Academic Psychiatry

Research Interests: Mental health care disparities in minority population. Psychopharmacology response in multicultural population.

Other Interests /Hobbies: Playing tennis, Cooking, trying new restaurants, traveling and reading.

Why did you choose psychiatry?  I chose psychiatry because I will be helping a vulnerable population that requires compassion and the highest level of care. Therefore, this specialty will allow me to combine my scientific and humanitarian pursuits towards mental health into a medical practice that benefits those with limited access to quality care.  

Silvio Viera-Perez, MD:

Clinical interest: Consultation- Liaison Psychiatry and Psychotherapy

Research interest: Neuroscience and Brain Aging

Hobbies & Interests: I find solace in beach walks, love cooking Cuban dishes for friends, and unwind with gripping Netflix shows. Traveling, my ultimate passion, lets me explore cultures and connect with diverse people. These activities bring happiness and fulfillment, enriching my life in countless ways.

Why did I choose Psychiatry: Becoming a psychiatrist is my lifelong dream, blending my love for people and their stories with a fascination for neuroscience. I thrive on meaningful conversations, aiming to help individuals overcome mental health challenges in diverse settings like hospitals, clinics, or private practice. The evolving nature of psychiatry keeps me motivated to stay updated on the latest research and treatment methods.    

Robert Martinez Caballero, MD:

Clinical interest: Addiction Psychiatry

Research interest: Drug and Alcohol Addiction

Hobbies & Interests: Philosophy and digital art

Why did I choose Psychiatry: To help the mentally ill find purpose and live to their full potential.  

Carla Avila Dominguez, MD:

Why did you choose psych? I chose psychiatry because the I find complexity of the human mind fascinating, and I love that psychiatry takes a holistic approach to patient care, considering not only the biological aspects but also the psychosocial, and environmental factors that influence mental health.  

Yira Flores, MD:

Clinical interests: Geriatric and forensic psychiatry

Research Interests: Biological psychiatry and neuroscience.

Other interests/hobbies: Traveling, cooking, yoga and meditation.

Why did you choose psych? It gives me the opportunity to learn from and be of assistance to patients from all age groups. Also, serve as an advocate for mental health awareness.          

Yuleidys Feito, MD:

Clinical Interest: 

  • Psychotherapy
  • Geriatric Psychiatry
  • Child and Adolescent Psychiatry

  Research Interest: 

  • Demonstrate the impact of Mindfulness and Meditation in the treatment of Depressive Disorders and Anxiety.

Other interests and hobbies: I enjoy spending quality time with family and friends, helping others, traveling around the world, practicing mindfulness and meditation, walking in nature, reading, listening to music and dancing.  

Why I chose Psychiatry: I chose Psychiatry because of my enduring fascination with the complexity of the human mind and its role in health. My interest in medical psychology and psychiatry grew significantly during my rotations. I find Psychiatry to be a challenging and fulfilling specialty, and my passion lies in alleviating human suffering through the healing of the mind.    

Maria Mijares Olivo, MD:

Clinical Interest: Psychosomatic Psychiatry and Integrative Medicine.

Other interests and hobbies: Yoga, exercise (workout), traveling, cooking.  

Why I chose Psychiatry: Help people restore their health and achieve maximum reintegration of the person with the best possible quality of life.          

Timar Fahim, MD:

 Ali Shahsamand, MD:

Clinical Interest: My clinical interests in psychiatry revolve around the holistic approach to mental health care. I am particularly drawn to the intersection of psychopharmacology and psychotherapy, seeking to integrate both in the treatment of diverse psychiatric conditions.   

Research Interest: I’m passionate about researching mental health disorders and drug addiction, focusing on the role of neuroimaging, genetics, and psychosocial factors in understanding their origins.  

Other interests and hobbies: I advocate destigmatizing mental health and engage in community outreach and awareness campaigns. I enjoy sports, meditation, and exploring diverse cultures through travel and culinary experiences.  

Why I chose Psychiatry: I’m deeply committed to mental health’s profound impact on well-being. Psychiatry, with its transformative interventions, allows me to connect with patients and contribute to their healing journey. I’m excited about continuous learning and growth in this evolving field.      

Simran Sandhu, MD:  

 

GME DIVISION LEADERSHIP

Ana Bovo, MSW, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) / Designated Institutional Official (DIO)

Dr. Juan Oms / Psychiatric Program Director

Patrick Pinchinat, MD / Associate Psychiatry Program Director

Dr. Xiomara Alcala / Medical Education/GME Consultative Team

Andrew Brick-Turin / Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

GME/Board of Directors Representative

Raquel Valdes / Institutional Program Coordinator

Nguyen Caballero / Chief Nursing Officer

 

Psychiatry Department Leadership

FACULTY/PROVIDERS

Position

CLINICAL SITE

PSYCHIATRY

Patrick Pinchinat, MD

Faculty

SWH

Silvia Silva-Duluc, MD

Faculty

SWH

Jorge Betancourt, MD

Faculty

SWH

Emelina Arocha, MD

Faculty

SWH

Carmen Espinosa, MD

Faculty

Keralty Hospital

Rhaisa Dumenigo, MD

Faculty

Keralty Hospital

Hugh Humphery, MD

Faculty

South Florida Integrative Medicine

Georgette De Jesus, MD

Faculty

South Florida Integrative Medicine

Americo Padilla, MD

Faculty

Nicklaus Children’s Hospital

Yesenia Kuan, MD Faculty  
Richard Douyon, MD

Faculty

 

Raul Ulloa Valladares, MD Faculty  
Mirbelys Perera, MD

Faculty

 

NEUROLOGY

Silvana G González Reiley, MD

Faculty

Doral Neurological Services

PRIMARY CARE FAMILY MEDICINE

Raul Roa, MD

Faculty

Roa-Licea MD Med. Office/ Keralty Hospital

Irina Licea, MD

Faculty

Roa-Licea MD Med. Office/ Keralty Hospital

Enrique Fernandez

Faculty


Tamika Singh

Faculty


PRIMARY CARE INTERNAL MEDICINE

Anay Puntonet, MD

Faculty

Palm Medical

PSYCHOLOGY/MH Counselors

Jessica Robb Mazzant, PhD

Faculty

South Florida Integrative Medicine

Anne Morrow, PhD

Faculty

South Florida Integrative Medicine

Katarzyna Maguire, MS, LMHC

Faculty

South Florida Integrative Medicine

Joshua Joseph, MS, LMHC

Faculty

South Florida Integrative Medicine

Haley Thomas, MS, LMHC

Faculty

South Florida Integrative Medicine

Flora Pazos, LCSW

Faculty

SWH

Rafael Sanchez, PhD

Faculty

SWH

Jose Dergan, PhD

Faculty

SWH/Consulting PhD

Elizabeth Marie Burghardt, LMHC

Faculty

SWH

Adriana Gutierrez, LMHC

Faculty

SWH

 

Requirements

Eligible applicants for the Psychiatry Residency Training at Southern Winds Hospital must be graduates of a medical school accredited by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME), the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) or of an international medical school listed by the World Health Organization published World Directory of Medical Schools.

International Medical Graduates

International Medical Graduates must have a current, valid certificate from the Educational Commission on Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) or have a full-unrestricted license to practice medicine in an US licensing jurisdiction. Graduates of medical schools outside the United States who have completed a fifth Pathway program provided by an LCME-accredited medical school are also eligible. J1-Visas are not sponsored.

Program Coordinator Information Raquel Valdes rvaldes@southernwindshospital.com

Applications for residency positions are accepted only through the Electronic Residency Application System (ERAS). Your ERAS application requires a personal statement, medical school transcript, USMLE scores for Steps 1, 2, and 3, three letters of reference, and the MSPE. It is preferred to have your Step 3 completed, with scores available for review, by February 1st as documentation of successful completion of the USMLE Step 1, Step II CK and Step 2 CS must be submitted for initial appointment as a resident.

For all level applicants, our selection committee pays close attention to the following:

  • Documentation of excellent academic records and medical school performance

  • Scores on USMLE Step 1 and 2 of over 200 on the first attempt (or COMLEX equivalent)

  • Three full years of clinical experience in a US hospital is strongly recommended for International Medical Graduates

  • Applicants who demonstrate an interest in the field of Psychiatry through research, publications, volunteer work, Mental Health advocacy, etc.

  • Applicants must not have been dismissed from a previous residency program.

  • Years since medical school graduation will be closely examined.

ACGME ID# 4001100007

 

Resident Selection Policy

A selection committee consisting of the Program Director, Associate Program Directors, Fellowship Directors and Chief Residents will review all applicants, select applicants for interview, participate in the interview process and rank the applicants submitted in the NRMP match.

Applicant selection will be based on residency program-related criteria, which encompass readiness, competence, potential, academic qualifications, communication abilities, and personal attributes such as motivation and integrity. Discrimination based on gender, race, age, religion, ethnicity, color, national origin, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, or veteran status will not play any role in the selection process.

Each year, the selection committee extends invitations for individual interviews to approximately 100 candidates. Those selected for interviews will receive notification via email and will be scheduled for an interview day. Please refrain from contacting the program administration for updates on your application status.

Sending your application via email may jeopardize your opportunity for an interview.

 

RESIDENTS CRITERIA FOR GRADUATION

Promotions of residents are determined by the Graduate Medical Education Committee (GMEC), the Clinical Competency Committee, the residency program director, and the Clinical Competency Committee. The criteria for these promotions encompass, but are not restricted to, the following:

  1. Successful completion of the Psychiatry Residency Program, including meeting the required duration, completing rotations, participating in continuity clinics, engaging in didactic sessions, maintaining clinical logs for patients, attending Continuing Medical Education (CME) activities, completing one Quality Improvement (QI) project and one Research project, receiving evaluations, adhering to Graduate Medical Education (GME) policies, demonstrating teaching skills, performing well on In- service exams, and fulfilling assigned program responsibilities.

  2. Consistent attendance at didactic seminars and conferences.

  3. Accumulation of a sufficient breadth and depth of clinical patient experience, documented through patient logs.

  4. Regular and reliable participation in required individual supervision sessions.

  5. Successful completion of the USMLE/COMLEX Step 3 examination.

  6. Attainment of program goals and objectives, as outlined in the ACGME (Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education) psychiatry program requirements and detailed in this manual.

  7. Fulfillment of the ACGME requirements for training in Psychiatry and core competencies. This includes any mechanisms used to assess competencies, such as resident portfolios, formative evaluations, and 360° evaluations employed for evaluation purposes within the residency program.

  8. Achievement of the Psychiatry Milestones, assessed by the program director based on recommendations from the Clinical Competency Committee.

  9. Meeting the requirements set forth by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) and demonstrating clinical skills necessary for board eligibility and certification in Psychiatry through the ABPN examination.

  10. A record free from serious clinical judgment errors, or if such errors occur, successful completion of any required remedial training.

  11. Absence of any documented instances of unethical or unprofessional behavior or any serious doubts regarding clinical competence.

  12. Displaying adequate knowledge and clinical skills characteristic of a proficient clinician who can utilize current literature and navigate a general psychiatric practice. This encompasses demonstrated competency in the ACGME competency areas and milestones.

 

MEDICAL STUDENTS’ CLERKSHIPS OPPORTUNITIES

Southern Winds Hospital’s Medical Student Clerkship Program aims to offer medical students competency- based education and clinical training within the field of Psychiatry.

The Psychiatry clerkship’s primary objective is to equip medical students with extensive skills in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating patients dealing with psychiatric and behavioral health issues. Both clinical and didactic experiences will center on the diagnostic criteria outlined in the DSM-5, as well as the latest guidelines in Psychopharmacology and Psychotherapy. Medical students will have the opportunity to actively engage in delivering psychiatric services to diverse communities in our geographic area.

Within our clinical facilities, medical students will function as integral members of a multidisciplinary team, collaborating closely with Psychiatrists, resident physicians, other mental health professionals, and various ancillary disciplines. As part of the treatment team, medical students will be encouraged and expected to contribute to patient care planning and delivery, ranging from reporting clinical observations during morning rounds to presenting case studies. Additionally, medical students will partake in orientations and immersive clinical experiences.

Beyond their clinical involvement, all medical students can attend didactic sessions covering essential aspects of Psychiatry. These sessions may include teaching rounds, Journal Club discussions, lectures, Grand Rounds presentations, and other educational activities.

 

Request a rotation

All fields are required.

Student’s State*

Current Medical School*

I am interested in a medical clerkship with the following physician*: Patrick Pinchinat, MD Jorge Betancourt, MD Other:

Information to when a rotation is needed including the name and contact of your Student Coordinator*

If you prefer to speak with someone at the GME Corporate Office, you may reach out directly to the Clerkship Coordinator Yesenia Vazquez at Yvazquez@southernwindshospital.com

Thank you for allowing us to be your choice of clerkship