M.D. provides clinical and educational experiences unique to each training site but draws upon the entire Harvard faculty for collaboration in education and research. The philosophy of training emphasizes direct but well-supervised clinical experiences in Harvard Affiliated Hospitals and recognizes the salience of developmental and psychodynamic theory which is enriched by a theoretical and scientifically grounded curriculum. Each training site offers special opportunities for experiences that address the unique needs and interests of the residents.
All residents participate in a core curriculum with a two-year cycle.
The courses are presented in a seminar format, supplemented with selected readings, and encourage active participation of the trainees. Seminar speakers have been specifically selected from the Harvard Faculty on the basis of their clinical expertise and research contributions. This seminar integrates the perspectives on psychopathology derived from psychodynamic theory, developmental psychology, and epidemiology, and provides a critical appreciation of current diagnostic nosology and potential future developments. A unique seminar focusing on the integration of multiple clinical perspectives into a cohesive framework for clinical intervention. Elective time is provided in the two-year training period for specialized clinical experiences or for supervised research opportunities.