Welcome Letter

Dear Applicant:

Thanks for your interest in the Psychiatry Residency Program at West Virginia University.

Here at WVU, we're looking to empower residents who share a sense of purpose, people who want to make a real difference in the lives of West Virginians and beyond. That mission is at the heart of what we do. When you join our program, you become a vital part of the team working to bring better mental health care to the people in our community who need it most.

Our residents train in a modern, team-based environment where they learn from experts and care for patients across a range of settings. Some things that make our program stand out include:

• A long-standing, nationally recognized telepsychiatry program
• Strong training in treating substance use disorders
• One of the country’s leading rural psychiatry tracks
• Opportunities to work alongside specialists at the Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute and the largest teaching hospital in the state

But beyond the clinical and academic training, what really defines us is our commitment to being a welcoming, supportive learning community. We focus on building solid clinical skills, encouraging curiosity, and helping residents grow into thoughtful, well-rounded psychiatrists.

Department of Behavioral Medicine & Psychiatry: Greater Goal

A collaborative community that advances comprehensive behavioral health across the lifespan, with innovation and excellence in healthcare, education, and research.

Department of Behavioral Medicine & Psychiatry: Values

Communication: The exchange of ideas that fosters transparency, engagement, and mutual trust.

Compassion: Empathy towards peers and patients that instills connection and hope.

Integrity: Doing what you should, even when no one is looking.

Collaboration: Working together to identify and achieve shared goals.

Enjoyment: Purpose in one’s work and community that brings delight and fulfillment.

We care deeply about resident wellness. Morgantown and the surrounding area offer a great mix of outdoor activities, local events, and a strong sense of community. We aim to train psychiatrists who are ready to practice anywhere, whether that’s in a city, a rural area, pursuing a fellowship, or jumping into a clinical leadership role.

If our mission speaks to you, we’d love to meet you. We’re excited to build the future of psychiatry together.

Warmly,
Daniel Pustay, MD
Program Director, Psychiatry Residency
West Virginia University