This conversation discusses the development of the Certificate of Postgraduate Training in Clinical Psychiatry (the Certificate), funded by the Australian Government. The Certificate is designed for medical practitioners in Australia (PGY5+) who want to learn foundational concepts in psychiatry and develop practical clinical skills to assess and support patients who present with mental health conditions. The program includes four core areas with an elective that can be related to your interests. It offers flexibility and experiential learning, allowing participants to continue working in their primary places of work -while under clinical supervision by experienced psychiatrists.

Chair of the Expert Advisory Group, Dr Bill Kingswell, and members of the Expert Advisory Group and Curriculum Authorship Steering Group, Dr Matthew Ruhl and Dr Catherine Andronis, discuss why medical practitioners should enrol into the Certificate and the benefits of undertaking the program for general practitioners and rural generalists.

Dr Bill Kingswell is a psychiatrist with a long-term interest in the educational activities of the RANZCP and chaired the Expert Advisory Group which governed this project.

Dr Matthew Ruhl is a rural generalist (FACRRM), with an advanced skill in mental health and special interests in addiction and sexual health, and all facets of LGBTIQAPSB+ health. He has worked for the past decade in hospitals and health facilities across south-east Queensland. Matt is an active clinical educator for the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) and continues to study actively, is a novice researcher and supports medical student and doctor education. In his spare time, he enjoys his artistic pursuits as an amateur stained-glass maker, cooking, gaming, and sleep (especially sleep!).

Dr Catherine Andronis is a Melbourne-based GP with a special interest in mental health, and a family therapist.  She is currently the Chair of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) Psychological Medicine Specific Interests group, as well as a medical educator and a keen advocate for mental health care in Australia.

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Disclaimer:
This podcast is provided to you for information purposes only and to provide a broad public understanding of various mental health topics. The podcast may represent the views of the author and not necessarily the views of The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists ('RANZCP'). The podcast is not to be relied upon as medical advice, or as a substitute for medical advice, does not establish a doctor-patient relationship and should not be a substitute for individual clinical judgement. By accessing The RANZCP's podcasts you also agree to the full terms and conditions of the RANZCP's Website. Expert mental health information and finding a psychiatrist in Australia or New Zealand is available on the RANZCP’s Your Health In Mind Website.