Program description
The program is designed to prepare fellows to competently perform both civil and criminal case work. Areas of focus on learning to conduct civil and criminal forensic psychiatric assessments, consult with attorneys/agencies, and present deposition/trial testimony. Fellows are also taught to write well-organized, concise forensic reports that clearly convey their opinions.

In addition to conducting forensic evaluations and writing reports, fellows also rotate at a variety of sites including the Saint Louis County Jail (clinical care), VA (independent medical evaluations), and Missouri DMH (clinical care associated with competency restoration program and sexual offender unit). Each rotation is specifically designed to offer an experience that contributes toward development as a forensic psychiatrist.

The didactics broadly cover the field of forensic psychiatry. There is a year-long seminar covering landmark legal cases that have directed and shaped forensic psychiatry in the United States. Fellows also learn to conduct pertinent psychological testing pertaining to competency evaluations, malingering assessments, violence risk assessment instruments, and sexual offender assessment instruments. Our group of forensic psychologists also administer a year-long seminar designed to increase each fellow's knowledge of statistics and comfort with additional psychological testing that may be encountered during case work, such as the MMPI.

During the year, each fellow will also be guided in completing a scholarly project or projects. The aim is to produce one or more presentations and/or publications. Extensive time will be spent teaching the fellows how to effectively present material to large groups.

We strongly encourage applicants to apply as soon as possible. Feel free to contact either Dr. Newman or Ms. Ehrenreich directly to express interest in the program.