Cultural Psychiatry

The UC Davis Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences has a strong regional and national reputation, and a rich history of excellence in training leaders in cultural psychiatry.  Our vision is to advance the mental health and wellness of individuals, communities  and populations by approaching psychiatry through the lens of culture, diversity and social inclusion. Ultimately, our goal is to achieve equity and improve the lives of diverse populations affected by behavioral health conditions through education, research, community empowerment, advocacy, and policy action.

The Diversity Advisory Committee (DAC) is comprised of faculty and trainees who work together on topics of cultural psychiatry, social justice, and health equity within and beyond the department of psychiatry. The groups has multiple aims including the ongoing enhancement and development of curriculum and research in cultural psychiatry, the recruitment and support of underrepresented medical students, residents, fellows, and faculty, as well as increasing the awareness of the UC Davis campus about issues related to cultural psychiatry and health equity. Educational activities include a Grand Round speaker series, Cultural Psychiatry Movie Series, peer mentoring groups, recruitment, and much more. Join us in promoting cultural psychiatry and mental health equity for diverse patient populations.

Ruth Shim, M.D., M.P.H.
Luke & Grace Kim Professor of Cultural Psychiatry
Associate Professor, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences
rshim@ucdavis.edu