Advanced training involves 2 years FTE supervised experience in: general clinical psychiatry - Generalist Stream Advanced Training (GSAT) OR an Approved Program Advanced Training (APAT) OR a combination of these two
Advanced training also requires completion of seven core advanced training experiences. Whilst an apprenticeship style of training continues, the emphasis during these 2 years FTE training is on adult learning, self-directed learning and the processes used in continuing medical education. It is expected that all advanced training will be informed by an eclectic approach, which takes account of the biological, psychological, social and cultural aspects of the individual and his or her mental illness or mental health problems.
Fellows of the College may do further advanced training. Post Fellowship advanced trainees are not required to complete the core advanced training experiences although you may choose to do so.
Generalist Stream
To enter Generalist Stream Advanced Training you must have completed:
• 36 months FTE of basic training with satisfactory supervisor reports
• The 2 required case histories
• All basic training required experiences listed (see 2.5 and 4.4)
• Passed the Written Examination
• Have current general registration as a medical practitioner in Australia, New Zealand or other approved country, state, territory or dependency and be in good standing with the relevant Medical Registration Board or equivalent approved body
• Be selected to enter Generalist Stream Advanced Training, with selection ratified by your Director of Advanced Training (or, where there is conflict of interest, to the assigned Selection Panel)
• Be appointed to an appropriate approved GSAT training post.
Approved Program Advanced Training (APAT)
To enter Approved Program Advanced Training you must have completed:
• 36 months FTE of basic training with satisfactory supervisor reports
• The 2 required case histories
• All basic training required experiences listed (see 2.5 and 4.4)
• Passed the Written Examination
• Passed the Clinical Examination
• Have current registration as a medical practitioner in Australia, New Zealand or other approved country, state, territory or dependency and be in good standing with the relevant Medical Registration Board or equivalent approved body
• Be selected to enter Approved Program Advanced Training with selection ratified by your Director of Advanced Training (or, where there is conflict of interest, to the assigned Selection Panel)
• Be appointed to an appropriate approved APAT training post.
Note: Confidential information may be received about the applicants as part of the entry process. The applicant however has the opportunity to respond to any adverse comments before the formal interview.
Duration and Content of Advanced Training
Advanced training can be undertaken in one of three ways, as follows:
Generalist Stream Advanced Training
Two years FTE in general clinical psychiatry. This training shall comprise 12 months FTE in clinical psychiatry and a further 12 months FTE in one or more areas of psychiatry or clinically relevant research, which is approved prospectively by your Branch Training Committee. At least 12 months FTE must be undertaken following successful completion of the clinical examination.
Approved Program Advanced Training
Two years FTE in an approved advanced training program.
Combined GSAT/ APAT
A period of time in GSAT combined with a period of time in APAT (the latter after successful completion of the clinical examination) to a total of 24 months FTE. At least 12 months FTE must be undertaken following successful completion of the clinical examination.
For advanced training to be accredited in any of the above 3 options, you must satisfactorily complete and document the following seven core experiences:
(i) Experience in psychological aspects of management in psychiatry
(ii) Experience in biological aspects of management in psychiatry
(iii) Experience in aspects of social management in psychiatry
(iv) Experience in cultural aspects of management in psychiatry
(v) Experience in the application of consultative skills in psychiatry
(vi) CME activities
(vii) Skills development in leadership and management in psychiatry
In any of the 3 options, up to 12 months FTE may be spent in clinical research.
Awarding of Fellowship and Advanced Training Certificate
On completion of two years FTE advanced training in any of the above three options you will be eligible for nomination to the CFT/FAC for admission to Fellowship of the College.
On completion of two years FTE of an Approved Program Advanced Training, you will be eligible for nomination by the Subcommittee of that approved program CFT and FAC for the award of a Certificate of Advanced Training in that discipline. Completion of all requirements for the award of Fellowship is necessary for eligibility to receive the Certificate.
Assessment of Advanced Training
Assessment of advanced training shall include:
(i) Summative assessments by your supervisor
(ii) Review of your training documentation and reports by the relevant SAT
(iii) Research project (depending on advanced training program)
(iv) Final report.
