How to Be a Forensic Psychiatrist

A forensic psychiatrist works with law enforcement providing consultations about criminal matters. They often provide expert testimony during trials and court procedures. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor with training in mental disorders. If you want to become a psychiatrist and want to work with lawyers exploring criminal matters, this may be a good career path for you. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Go to college and take classes with an emphasis in the sciences. You will probably want a degree in biology or chemistry. A degree in psychology will also work, if you take additional science classes.
2. Get into medical school. Medical schools are extremely competitive and getting into one may be difficult. In addition, completing medical school and several years of rotations in a hospital will not be easy. You will also have to get licensed in your state to practice medicine and pass the National Medical Board Examination; which will also be difficult. However, you will need to become a physician before you can become a forensic psychiatrist.
3. Complete four years of training in psychiatry. Usually, you will have chosen a specialty in psychiatry such as pediatric mental health. In your last year of training, you will need a forensic psychiatry fellowship.
4. Study and read everything about your field. You will need to stay up-to-date about new advances in your specialty. In addition to being an expert witness, you will want to continue to see patients so you don't lose touch in your field.

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