Jessica Burns, Psy.D., M.A.

Dr. Burns earned her master’s and doctoral degrees in clinical psychology from Pepperdine University. Throughout her predoctoral training, she focused on lifespan neuropsychology and evidence-based treatments, including cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and family- focused therapy. She has conducted assessments and provided individual and family-based interventions at various inpatient and outpatient medical settings, including Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and the UCLA Semel Institute. Dr. Burns is set to graduate from the UCLA Doctoral Internship Program in Clinical Psychology in June 2023. At the UCLA Semel Institute, she received specialized training in pediatric neuropsychology, mood disorders, and teaching social skills.

Dr. Burns is passionate about conducting translational research in the areas of pediatric psychosocial assessments and suicide prevention. She has presented her research on evidence-based risk assessment measures for emergency departments at various pediatric conferences. Dr. Burns received an award for translational research from the Society of Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology of the American Psychological Association.

In addition to serving as a Max Gray Fellow in the CHAMP Clinic, Dr. Burns will also be a pediatric neuropsychology fellow in the UCLA Medical Psychology Assessment Center. Because cognition and mood are closely intertwined, Dr. Burns hopes to use her specialized training in neuropsychology and mood disorders to increase access to care and services for youth, adults, and families impacted by neurocognitive and neuropsychiatric conditions, severe mood disturbances, and suicidal behaviors.