The conduct of clinical psychiatric research is critical to advance the science and efficacy of treatment while also safeguarding the interests of participants. This article emerges from the authors’ experience, providing practical guidance to colleagues seeking input on how to design and implement clinical research protocols in accordance with key ethical considerations. Thus, the intent of this article is to provide (1) an overview of common ethical considerations when conducting psychiatric clinical research along with (2) practical advice for preparing Institutional Review Board applications and associated materials in the ethical conduct of psychiatric clinical research.