Dr. Jessica Borelli

Clinical Director

Dr. Jessica Borelli  (www.drjessicaborelli.com) completed her Ph.D. In Psychology at Yale University and her clinical internship at UCLA's Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, with a specialization in child and family psychotherapy. After completing an NIH-funded postdoctoral fellowship at University of Arizona, Dr. Borelli became an Assistant Professor at Pomona College, where she earned tenure. Dr. Borelli became a licensed clinical psychologist (PSY23547), beginning a private practice in Claremont. Seven years later, she transitioned to UCI as a tenured Associate Professor, was promoted to Professor (Full) and now directs The Health, Relationships, and Interventions (THRIVE) Laboratory. She has published over 180 articles and book chapters on topics such as mental health, attachment, and child/adolescent psychology. Her research has been funded by federal and private funding entities. In addition to academic works, she also writes for public audiences – most recently, she published a parenting book (Nature Meets Nurture: Science-Based Strategies to Raising Resilient Kids) and a book describing the relationship-based intervention she developed (Relational Savoring: Using Guided Reflection to Strengthen Relationships and Improve Outcomes in Therapy). Dr. Borelli writes frequently for Psychology Today. Follow her on Facebook (Dr. Jessica Borelli) or Instagram (#drjessicaborelli). In her clinical work, Dr. Borelli utilizes evidenced-based approaches, most often drawing upon techniques originating in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (including exposure-based therapies), Emotion-Focused Therapy, and attachment-based approaches to therapy (including those involving mentalization). She specializes in working with individuals with anxiety, trauma, eating/weight, or relationship issues, and adopts an individualized, culturally sensitive approach with all of her clients. Dr. Borelli views therapy as an opportunity for the client to share, to learn, and to grow toward health through close connection. Dr. Borelli is a licensed clinical psychologist (PSY23547).