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Christine P. Neal, M.D.
Current Role: PGY-3 Resident
Hometown: Knoxville, Tennessee; or Bloomington, Indiana; or Sao Luis, Maranhao, Brazil; or . . .
Undergraduate Education: Indiana University College of Music, Bloomington, Indiana
Medical Education: University of Wisconsin, Madison
Background Information
My interest in medicine did not develop until well after I graduated from college with a degree in vocal performance. I worked in a public health clinic, and found that the more I learned, the more I wanted to know. So, off to medical school I went (after 40 hours of post baccalaureate courses). I later completed a residency in OB/Gyn, and have practiced as a board-certified Ob/Gyn since 1993.
Interest in Psychiatry
I have always been interested in the psychosocial aspects of medical care. The longer I practiced, the more aware I became of the impact of non-medical issues on patient’s health and well-being. I found I spent more time counseling and providing “therapy” than in traditional aspects of diagnosis and treatment. In the rural community where I worked for 10 years, mental health resources were limited, and I had to do much myself. I felt poorly qualified, but intensely interested in this aspect of my work. When events occurred that required me to look at a new practice setting, and some major life changes developed, I decided to pursue what has really become my first love.
Interest in VCU Residency
I first learned of VCU through a nurse practitioner in rural Southwest Virginia who had trained here. She spoke enthusiastically of the quality of her training, and of the diversity of patients that she learned to care for here. The excellence of her skills was a tribute to a solid educational program. When I began to consider a training site,
I knew that I wanted to find out more about VCU. I learned that this program is a great balance of patient care and academics, that both psychotherapy and biologic interventions are valued and taught, that residents and faculty are diverse in ethnicity, age, background and interests, and that my unique background was valued and respected.
Future Plans
I am still exploring options at this stage. I know that I will always remain interested in women’s mental health issues, but the broad field of psychiatry is interesting as well. I am probably headed toward a general psychiatric practice, but remain open to learning about other possibilities.
Other Comments
I have found support and encouragement here. Transitioning from being the “attending” to being a resident again has been interesting, but due to the help I’ve received, actually quite easy. I would be delighted to talk to anyone individually about this or other issues or questions you might wish to discuss.
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Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Dept of Psychiatry
Last Update: February, 2008 according to departmental policy
1200 East Broad Street, P.O. Box 980710, Richmond, VA 23298-0710
(804) 828-9157, Email Webmaster
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