For many residents, choosing a specialty can feel like an overwhelming decision, but for Dr. Kristin Delcellier, the path to psychiatry was clear from the start. Since becoming a newly appointed staff psychiatrist at St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton in January, Dr. Delcellier reflects on her journey of dedication, adaptation, and a deep passion for mental health care.  

Originally from Ottawa, Dr. Delcellier’s medical journey took her more than 5,000 kilometres away to the University of Limerick in Ireland. But when it came time to return to Canada, Hamilton stood out—not only for its proximity to family but for the critical need for mental health services.   

“There’s so much need for psychiatry here,” she explains. “Many patients are underserved. It’s rewarding to know that the work I do here is making a real difference.” 

When asked why she wanted to pursue medicine; “I know this is going to sound cliche because it always is,” Dr. Delcellier says with a laugh, “but I wanted to help people.” Her fascination with the brain and human behaviour lead her to an undergraduate degree in psychology at the University of Ottawa, followed by a master’s of neurosciences at Carleton University, making psychiatry a natural fit. 

The challenges of residency 

Residency is a notoriously intense period in any physician’s training, and Dr. Delcellier’s experience was no exception. Coming from medical school in Ireland to complete her residency in Hamilton, including at St. Joe’s Charlton and West 5th campuses, she had to quickly adapt to a new health system. “It was a big adjustment,” she recalls. “But the way McMaster structures their program made the transition easier. It didn’t feel rushed or pressured.” 

On top of the usual demands of residency, her and her cohort of residents faced an unexpected challenge: completing their training during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“Some of the difficulties, I think, in residency is obviously kind of making sure that you’re taking care of yourself, making sure that you’re taking your wellness into account.” 

One of the biggest challenges her and fellow residents faced was navigating the uncertainties of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, Dr. Delcellier credits the support of her fellow residents and program mentors for helping her navigate the difficult period. “I was really lucky to have a very supportive program and peers who looked out for each other.” 

The importance of mentorship 

Throughout her residency, strong mentorship played a crucial role in her growth. “I had multiple mentors, but one in particular really shaped my experience. It’s so important to have people who champion you through residency.”  

Her advice for current residents? “There is one day that you will be done school. And that day is coming sooner than you think,” she smiles. “Enjoy residency. Form those relationships with mentors or with your fellow residents, because those are the relationships that are going to matter down the line.”  

Life after residency 

Now officially a staff psychiatrist  at St. Joe’s and an assistant professor for the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences at McMaster, Dr. Delcellier is beginning to settle in. “Someone once told me it takes about four months to really feel settled in as staff, and I think that’s true,” she says. “There’s an adjustment period – not just in terms of clinical work, but also in finding work-life balance.” 

One major post-residency goal? “Paying down student loans,” she jokes. But outside of work, she and her husband are enjoying their time in Hamilton, as avid Hamilton Forge soccer fans and frequent explorers of the city’s thriving restaurant scene. 

Through it all, Dr. Delcellier remains passionate about her work. “At the end of the day, I went into this to help people, and that’s exactly what I get to do.”