A Psychiatrist's Journey to the UK - Dr Brittany Meyer
- February 06, 2023
IMG Stories is our series introducing you to international doctors who we have helped to relocate to the UK - sharing their personal journeys from working overseas to securing a new job as a doctor in the NHS.
Today we introduce Brittany Meyer, a brilliant general adult psychiatrist who relocated to the UK from the US. Having completed the USMLE during her training, Brittany was able to gain full GMC registration with license to practise. She is now working in the NHS at West London Mental Health Foundation Trust, where she is making a fantastic impact on the service and wider community.
Tell us about yourself – what should the IMG community know about Brittany Meyer?
I am a US-trained psychiatrist now working as a specialty doctor in the NHS. I trained in psychiatry at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee, and following training, I worked at a consultant level in an intensive outpatient treatment centre specialising in OCD and anxiety.
My academic interests include catatonia, psychosis, OCD, and teaching, and I have a special love for opportunities that allow blending the arts and humanism with medicine.
What motivated you to move to the UK?
I moved to the UK to be with my fiancé, who is a born and bred Londoner. The pandemic was a major motivator to be in the same country finally! Luckily, I have dual US-UK citizenship, so this made the move over much simpler.
How did you manage to navigate and juggle the different aspects of registration whilst working full time?
During the registration process, at which point I had moved to the UK, I worked part-time for a tele-psychiatry service located in the USA, allowing me to treat patients from abroad. This was invaluable in terms of flexibility, and it prevented my clinical skills from becoming too rusty while I waited for my licensing to be approved.
My main struggle, if anything, was having so much unfamiliar unstructured time on my hands. I strongly recommend setting out a weekly schedule for yourself if you are in a similar situation, filled with other means of staying productive and gaining a sense of accomplishment you might otherwise get from your job. It’s also important to maximize such rare time to enjoy nourishing hobbies and interests - for example I learned to watercolour and spent many mornings at the V&A museum - and in hindsight wish I had been more proactive in seeking such activities out.
How did you find a general adult psychiatry job within the NHS?
I was hoping to find an outpatient mental health team position and Ruaidhri fully facilitated the job search. When I began the registration process, I felt quite disoriented, and it was difficult to find someone who had an incentive to talk me through my options and the steps to get there.
It was only when I found IMG Connect and Ruaidhri that I felt someone was in my corner, illuminating an otherwise confusing journey and assisting with each step along the way. It was no different for the job search, when Ruaidhri deftly handled the search and communication with NHS trusts to find a position for me. I am deeply indebted to Ruaidhri for not only the logistical work he put in on my behalf, but also the moral support along the way.
Tell us about a day in the life of a general adult psychiatrist in the NHS...
Learning an entirely new system has been quite an adjustment. In addition, I am working in a model that is new to the NHS, so the system is foreign in ways I didn’t expect, for example not having the ability to order blood work or imaging, or to even prescribe anything beyond very short-term medications. The team I work with has been incredibly welcoming and have helped orient me to resources like the BNF and Maudsley Prescribing Guidelines to orient me to standard practice.
Working in the NHS can be quite chaotic, and this is an especially challenging time in terms of staffing and funding within the system, but the difference I can make in my patients’ lives is striking.
What opportunities have become available to you through your work?
I am still in the infancy of my NHS career, but I am hoping to pursue teaching opportunities, particularly around the diagnosis and management of catatonia. I have found everyone to be very supportive and willing to connect me to those who can further this.
How are you settling into life in the UK?
London is a magical space. Having access to some of the best museums, opera, theatre, restaurants and architecture in the world is a luxury. I have also loved the flexibility of being so close to other amazing places in the UK and Europe, which has allowed me to spend time in France, Spain, Italy, Wales, Northern Ireland, and more. Being able to spend a weekend in another country the way we would visit another state in the US is incredible!
I hope to eventually have a role that blends more teaching and support of trainees and medical students with clinical care. I am very excited to get married in 2023 and hopefully become a dog parent as well!
You’re of course a British citizen, is living in London what you had expected?
Yes and no! Though a British citizen, I had only lived in Scotland as a small child and spent holidays with my family in Northern Ireland growing up. So the big city - especially a walkable city - was a new experience for me! I’ve really enjoyed not owning a car and using public transport, and I’ll admit I’m still adapting to the very small stores with fewer than the usual 500 options of cereal that the US touts.
What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced in moving to the UK?
Leaving family and friends, especially during the pandemic, was even more difficult than I expected. Not being able to have anyone visit in the first year of being in the UK was challenging. I think it is important to normalise that moving to a new place - even an incredibly exciting and vibrant place like London - can feel lonely at times, and that it is expected to have a period of transition that might not feel comfortable. However, London is feeling increasingly like home, and I have made wonderful friends since arriving.
What have you missed most about the US?
Target! Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing (for the very desperate like me, available for ten pounds at Partridge’s)! Tacos! Smiling and saying hello to strangers on the street!
Is there anything you wish you had known before you began your journey to the UK?
I wish I had found IMG Connect while living in the US so I could have prepared and submitted my application while living in the US before moving; this would have cut down on a lot of limbo time after I moved.
I also wish I had understood the CESR process for specialist registration while still in the US, as that would have allowed me to gather and anonymise patient documentation from my job there to support my CESR application; unfortunately I have now lost the right to access that documentation due to patient information protection laws. If you are considering applying for specialist registration and are still in your pre-NHS job, collect all the supporting documentation you can!
What has been your experience working with IMG Connect?
IMG Connect has been incredibly key in helping me to get licensed and find a position working as a doctor in the UK. Ruaidhri has been helpful in a multitude of ways: explaining a foreign system and where I might fit in, doing the groundwork of distributing my CV and liaising with HR departments to explore job possibilities, setting up interviews, guiding my licensing application, and supporting my appeal including with a written letter of support. I truly would not have been able to navigate this on my own - and had tried unsuccessfully before I found IMG Connect.
Do you have any tips or advice for international doctors who want to move to the UK?
I tried to seek information from a lot of different sources: forums, family friends who were practicing physicians in the UK, online blogs, the Royal College of Psychiatrists, the GMC. Ultimately the most helpful resource by far was IMG Connect: both the one-on-one tailored advice, as well as their handouts that break down the ins and outs of the UK system and guide you through exactly what documents you need to collect in what order, etc., to achieve licensing. It’s such a niche process that I found the only really helpful resource to be a service that is devoted to my precise needs as an internationally-trained doctor transitioning to the UK.
Moving to live and work in the UK is a big decision to make but can be massively rewarding in many ways. International doctors have the chance to find a new home and the NHS presents an incredible opportunity for IMGs to secure rewarding jobs, progress within their fields and explore adjacent opportunities such as CESR, writing publications, teaching opportunities and research.
Whatever route an overseas doctor may take on their journey to the UK, IMG Connect is here to support them through every step and welcome them to the IMG Family.
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Relevant Jobs
An outstanding opportunity for a psychiatrist to join Forensic Psychiatry Department as Specialty Doctor that has received outstanding ratings from the CQC on three occasions. You will offer psychiatric input and conduct assessments, both psychiatric and physical, for patients on two wards. One ward is a self-contained low secure rehabilitation unit situated away from the main hospital premises, while the other is a medium secure rehabilitation ward. This role offers exposure to a broad spectrum of clinical presentations, including personality, affective, anxiety, psychotic, neurodevelopmental, and substance-related disorders. Moreover, it provides a platform for developing knowledge and understanding of forensic mental health sections. This position also offers CESR support for those seeking progression within the UK NHS Jobs system.
This is a great opportunity for overseas Specialty Doctors who want to establish themselves in the NHS, and grow their career. The post is suitable for candidates holding specialisation in the EEA, or for experienced IMGs looking to complete CESR.
What is the NHS Trust like?
The Mental Health NHS Trust is a leading provider of mental health service serving a population of 1.2 million. With five main inpatient sites and 25 community locations, they offer comprehensive support for both mental and physical health needs, catering to young people and adults alike. From managing phobias and anxiety to addressing conditions like bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, their services are diverse and inclusive. They integrate community health services with mental health care, enabling simultaneous treatment of conditions such as diabetes and mental health issues, promoting holistic patient care.
Forensic Psychiatry Team & Department
The Forensic Service enjoys a stellar reputation, earning an \'Outstanding\' rating from the Care Quality Commission. The Forensic Service delivers care in low and medium secure environments, featuring specialized facilities such as the National Stalking Clinic and the Fixated Threat Assessment Centre (FTAC). These services focus on evaluating and managing risks for prominent individuals.
The inpatient service consists of one acute assessment and treatment medium secure male 4 4 ward, four treatment and intervention medium secure male wards, one female medium secure ward, one medium secure and one low secure male learning disability ward, one low secure male FICU ward and 4 low secure male wards. There are currently 25 Consultant Forensic Psychiatrists in post, working with 5 senior psychiatric trainees who rotate with posts at other forensic psychiatric services in the region. There are 5 junior psychiatric trainees, coming from the UCH training schemes. The service currently employs 10 specialty doctors, working in the prisons and in the rehabilitation parts of the service.
Life in the area
The area offers a blend of urban and suburban living, providing both rural escapes and city conveniences. Residents can explore scenic parks or enjoy activities at different parks. The area boasts a range of quality schools and easy access to universities like Middlesex University. Transport links are excellent, with frequent trains to central London and nearby cities, as well as efficient connections to major airports. Housing options vary from historic cottages to modern apartments, catering to diverse preferences and lifestyles.
Career Development and Opportunities Available
With an extremely active education/teaching programme supported by the consultant team, there is opportunity to work towards and complete CESR, RCPsych exams, get involved in active research and many aspects of CPD.
Participation in research and educational activities will be encouraged.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Forensic Psychiatry (Desirable)
Non-EEA Candidates:
- MRCPsych
- Experience of working in Forensic Psychiatry (Desirable)
UK based applicants
- Experience of working in Forensic Psychiatry (Desirable)
An excellent opportunity for an experienced Consultant Old Age Psychiatrist to join an established NHS community clinic in London. The post if suitable for overseas psychiatrists, including candidates who are pursuing CESR. Specialists in Psychiatry, holding a specialist certification would be suitable for this post, based on experience entering at either Specialty Doctor or Consultant grade.
WHAT IS THE DEPARTMENT & TEAM LIKE?
The post offered is that of Specialist Psychiatrist in Older Adult Psychiatry, working in both the community mental health team and the memory clinic. In addition to this post, three additional CMHTs make up the older adult community service for the borough. The personnel of the CMHT include: medical staff, Community Psychiatric Nurses, Occupational Therapist, and Psychiatric Social Workers. There is a Psychological Therapy Department which provides therapy for older adults and which works across CMHTs in the Borough as does the Occupational Therapy Service.
The post holder will have responsibility for the diagnostic assessment and treatment of older adult psychiatric patients from the designated catchment area referred to and accepted by the service. Outpatient clinics and domiciliary visits in the community will constitute the majority of the direct clinical care provided by the post holder.
WHAT IS LIFE LIKE IN NORTH LONDON FOR PSYCHIATRISTS?
This great world city is far more than just the capital of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. London is bustling, vibrant, multicultural and cosmopolitan. London is both old and new, a place where traditional pubs rub shoulders with the newest cocktail bars. Its most ancient castle is right next door to its newest skyscrapers. London\'s energy, as 8.6 million people go about their everyday lives, is tangible in every journey on the Underground, every stroll through a market and every walk along the banks of the River Thames. From the royal parks to the theatre stage, London really does have it all.
Working as a psychiatrist in London brings a range of exciting prospects. You will have the opportunity to work in some of the best mental health trusts in the UK, who will offer you the opportunity to constantly grow your medical and scientific knowledge and skills. In London you will have the opportunity to work in a wide range of settings, and as you progress through your career, you will have more opportunity to shape the way you work; you can develop research, work part time or full time and can combine your career with a wide range of other interests.
WHAT OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE TO YOU AT THE TRUST?
With an extremely active education/teaching programme supported by the consultant team, there is opportunity to work towards and complete CESR, RCPsych exams, get involved in active research and many aspects of CPD.
Participation in research and educational activities will be encouraged.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
-
6 years experience of working in Older Adult Psychiatry
-
Board Certified Specialist in Psychiatry (desirable)
Non-EEA Candidates:
-
MRCPsych (desirable)
-
6 years experience of working in Older Adult Psychiatry
UK based applicants
-
6 years experience of working in Older Adult Psychiatry
-
S12 (desirable)
An NHS job opportunity is available for an ambitious and passionate General Adult Psychiatrist to join a trust rated \"Outstanding overall\" CQC. This position presents an ideal prospect for psychiatrists from overseas who aspire to establish themselves within the UK\'s NHS system and progress toward a consultant-level career. It is well-suited for candidates seeking support to achieve Certificate of Eligibility for Specialist Registration (CESR). Doctors must have 6 years work experience after finishing core psychiatry training or equivalent international qualification to be considered for this opportunity.
What is the department & team like?
The department boasts a comprehensive General Adult Psychiatry department, equipped to deliver exemplary mental health care. Staffing includes a proficient team of consultants and dedicated junior doctors committed to providing superior patient care and support. The department\'s activity is marked by a wide spectrum of cases, ranging from common mental health disorders to more complex presentations. Patients receive tailored treatment plans incorporating evidence-based therapies, medication management, and holistic approaches to ensure comprehensive care.
Facilities within the department are modern and conducive to patient well-being, fostering an environment conducive to recovery and healing. Patients benefit from comfortable inpatient units, outpatient clinics, therapy rooms, and recreational spaces. On average, the department manages a significant caseload of general adult psychiatry cases annually, indicative of its pivotal role in addressing mental health needs within the community. The team\'s dedication to excellence and patient-centered care underscores the department\'s status as a leading provider of psychiatric services in the region.
What is the area like?
Location in a beautiful part of the south of England with easy links to London and Cambridge. Housing options range from historic cottages in quaint villages to modern developments, catering to diverse lifestyles. The location truly provides a balanced living experience, combining natural beauty, cultural richness, and modern comforts.
ELIGIBILITY FOR THE ROLE:
Non-EEA:
- MRCPsych (Desirable)
- 6 years specialist experience in General Adult Psychiatry
- Specialist certification in psychiatry (desirable)
- 6 years specialist experience in General Adult Psychiatry
- 6 years Specialty Doctor experience in General Adult Psychiatry
Join an Older Adult Community Mental Health team led by experienced consultants and supported by a dynamic team of Specialty Doctors. This NHS Trust, rated \"Good\" overall by the CQC, prioritizes staff support and offers a flexible training program for career advancement and work-life balance. Ideal for overseas Consultants and specialists seeking to establish themselves in the NHS and also Junior Doctors or Specialty Doctors already in the UK. MRCPsych is essential for mosts doctors trained outside of Europe. European doctors would need specialisation in psychiatry with ideally expertise in old age.
The post holder is expected to provide direct psychiatric services through the comprehensive evaluation, diagnosis, treatment planning, and treatment of patients assigned to him/her. The post holder is expected to be involved in discussions about assessments, treatment and risk management of patients in accordance with medical standards. The final decision rests with the consultant.
Life in the West Midlands
The West Midlands offers a blend of rural charm and urban amenities, catering to diverse preferences of residents. Its picturesque countryside provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and exploring historic landmarks like Worcester Cathedral. The area boasts reputable schools and universities, ensuring quality education for families. Transportation links are convenient, with access to major cities like Birmingham and Bristol, as well as airports for domestic and international travel. Housing options range from quaint cottages in rural villages to modern developments in bustling towns, accommodating various lifestyles and preferences.
Career Development & Opportunities Available
The NHS Trust provides an environment that actively supports career development and offers various opportunities for professional growth. Staff members have access to ongoing training and development programs to enhance their skills and stay abreast of the latest advancements in healthcare. The Trust encourages and facilitates career progression, with opportunities for staff to take on additional responsibilities and roles within their specialties. Continuous professional development is promoted, ensuring that individuals can advance their careers and contribute effectively to patient care.
For those seeking further qualifications or specialization, the Trust may provide support for relevant educational pursuits, contributing to the professional development of its staff. CESR is a key feature of this role, with a current cohort of candidates working through CESR you will benefit from excellent support.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Specialist Qualification in Old Age Psychiatry
Non-EEA Candidates:
-
MRCPsych (Desirable)
-
Experience of working in Old Age Psychiatry (essential)
UK based applicants
- Experience of working in Old Age Psychiatry (essential)
- MRCPsych (desirable)
- Section 12 (desirable)
An exciting opportunity for an experienced Consultant in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry to join an award winning CAMHS inpatient unit. The team supports each other in balancing high quality patient care while you are pursuing your own special interests. The team is part of an NHS Foundation Trust that is a leading Trust in mental health research. The Trust was rated as \"good\" overall by the CQC in 2019. The post if suitable for overseas consultants, including candidates who are pursuing CESR. Specialists in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry holding a specialist certification would be suitable for this post, based on experience entering at either Specialty Doctor or Consultant grade.
Overseas applications from experienced Specialty Doctors and Consultants are welcomed.
WHAT IS THE NHS FOUNDATION TRUST LIKE?
The NHS Foundation Trust is the leading trust in mental health research. They provide excellent opportunities for professional development. The NHS Foundation Trust provides a broad range of community and inpatient mental health services, community services (including therapies), learning disability services, healthy lifestyle support and addictions services to a population of 765,000 people of all ages who live within areas of more than 4,700 square kilometres.
The Trust employs approximately 2,800 staff across more than 79 sites at locations throughout 4 towns. Their budgeted income for 2022/2023 is £186m. The NHS Foundation Trust works closely with major academic partners which ensures the nurturing of workforce of tomorrow\'s doctors, nurses and other health professionals. They aim to be a leading provider of integrated health services, recognised for the care compassion and commitment of their staff and known as a great employer and a valued partner.
The way they deliver their services has a direct bearing on their patients and carers’ experience of the Trust and, most importantly of all, their health. The Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust aim to provide the best services they can and constantly look at how they can improve them aspiring to excellence and be the best that they can be. They offer a wide range of benefits to help support a healthy work-life balance and support their employees\' overall health & wellbeing.
WHAT IS THE DEPARTMENT & TEAM LIKE?
The service is a team of excellent and forward thinking doctors consisting of: psychiatrists, psychologists, nurses, creative therapists and family therapists. There is currently funding for 4.8 WTE Community Consultant Child & Adolescent Psychiatrists. The service aims to keep children and adolescents at home with increased support if possible. The Trust provides a comprehensive Specialist Child & Adolescent Mental Health Service for young people that are 19 years and under.
The department has a Crisis Team that operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. While the Home Treatment (Intensive Intervention Team) aims to work from 8AM to 6PM, 7 days a week. The services is provided at various locations across the town in order to be able to offer families an accessible and convenient service within a less stigmatising and less threatening environment. There is also a team that works with people aged between 14 and 65, who are experiencing their first episode of psychosis or might be at risk of developing psychosis.
The post holder expected to make assessment of referrals/admissions. The post holder will liaise and collaboratively work with other services/agencies. The successful candidate is expected to have a care plan and treatment formulation, guidance on evidence-based treatment and effectiveness.
WHAT IS LIFE LIKE IN THE AREA?
Blessed with rural beauty, bustling towns and a dramatic coastline, the town makes a wonderful place to call home. Affordable property prices make living here even more appealing, with luxurious city-centre apartments, quiet suburban new builds and charming country cottages to choose from. Some of the UK’s finest beaches are located right here. Affordable property prices make living here even more appealing, with luxurious city-centre apartments, quiet suburban new builds and charming country cottages to choose from.
The town is known for its quirky narrow streets and bustling harbour overlooked by the striking Gothic ruins. It is a fascinating town, unlike any other. You will enjoy the quirky fishing villages, the unspoilt sandy beaches, the staggering views from the clifftops, and the popular seaside resorts. You will enjoy the 800km of bridleways that weave through the peaceful and colourful countryside of the North York Moors National Park.
WHAT OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE TO YOU AT THE NHS FOUNDATION TRUST?
With an extremely active education/teaching programme supported by the consultant team, there is opportunity to work towards and complete CESR, exams, get involved in active research and many aspects of CPD.
Participation in research and educational activities will be encouraged.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
- Board Certified Specialist in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
Non-EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
UK based applicants
- Experience of working in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
- Within 6 - 12 months of completing CCT