Welcome from the Department Chair
What we do here in the Morehouse School of Medicine Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences (DPBS) – and how – has never been more important. In a societal context of rampant population-level stressors and political polarization, our work is vital, as it is grounded in decades of centering diversity, equity and inclusion in clinical care, education, and scholarship. As only the third leader in the department’s 40+ year history, I am equally humbled and excited by the to build on the legacy of my predecessors, Dr. Dewitt C. Alfred, Sr. and Dr. Gail A. Mattox. In the past three years, MSM DPBS has seen exceptional growth in both our team and our sphere of influence.
Our faculty, staff, fellows, and residents are committed to drawing wisdom and inspiration from our past, while pursuing partnerships and explorations in pursuit of a brighter, more equitable future. Precedent has its place, but so too does innovation, especially when business as usual has reliably produced inequitable outcomes in both mental health promotion and mental health treatment provision. Our mission of advancing health equity is audacious. It demands that we think big, obtain and allocate human and material resources, collaborate across systems, and integrate a commitment to patient care with dedication to the self-care required to do it sustainably. We are keenly aware that it is bigger than any one of us individually. And while our team is exceptional, there is always room for growth in pursuit of our mission.
Whether you are a medical student considering a career in psychiatry, a candidate applying to psychiatry residency or child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship, a professional looking for a work environment where your passion for equity is shared, or a community or corporate entity seeking collaboration or consultation with culturally and structurally informed mental health professionals, we hope this site provides a helpful introduction. Just know that we are excited and inspired by our work - and welcome the opportunity to join forces in the pursuit of mental health equity and justice.
On behalf of our faculty, staff, and mental health professionals in training, it is my pleasure to welcome you.