Meet Dr James Li, ACT Stage 3 Psychiatry Registrar at Canberra Health Services. Dr Li is also the ACT representative in the Bi-national Committee of Trainees (BCT) and member of the Committee of Examinations.

1) Tell us a little bit about yourself

I’m currently doing the adult psychiatry certificate and this year I have also just started in the role as senior psychiatry registrar within Canberra Health Services. I was born and raised in Canberra, moved to Sydney for medical school and have since returned to Canberra. I would definitely recommend the psychiatry training program in Canberra for anyone interested.  

2) What inspired you to choose a career in Psychiatry? 

The main reason I chose psychiatry is I felt that within psychiatry there was a strong focus on patient’s quality of life which is something that I highly value. I also like that we work with a variety of other disciplines and often take a more holistic approach to the care we provide our patients. The people I have met on psychiatry rotations were also always kind and supportive which was a big draw. 

3) Tell us about the Bi-national Committee of Trainees (BCT) and your involvement in it

I’m currently on the BCT as the ACT trainee representative but have only been in this role for about a year. It’s been an amazing opportunity to be able to advocate for my fellow trainees and to get a glimpse into how our College works. It’s more work than I had originally expected but I think well worth it. 

4) What is the most rewarding aspect of being the ACT representative on the BCT, and how do you balance this with your work in the Committee of Examinations?

The most rewarding aspect of being the ACT trainee representative has been being able to be a part of and advocate for various improvements for my fellow trainees. The committee of examinations has been a very interesting one to be a part of and though they meet fortnightly, I’m fortunate that the psychiatry department in Canberra have been extremely supportive in allowing me to regularly participate. 

5) What do you enjoy doing outside of work? 

Most of my time outside of work is usually spent with my partner, family, friends, and playing boardgames. I also enjoy playing a number of sports with friends including volleyball, badminton, and more recently pickleball.