Jessica C. Lief, LCSW is a licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist who specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, body image issues, substance use disorders, trauma, and grief and loss.  Jessica completed psychoanalytic training through the William Alanson White Institute of Psychiatry, Psychoanalysis, and Psychology in the Eating Disorders, Compulsions, and Addictions (EDCAS) Program.

Her approach is primarily psychodynamic but combines aspects of self-psychology, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Seeking Safety, mindful self-compassion, and mindfulness. She is particularly interested in the treatment of eating disorders as a social justice issue, as they relate to people of color and the LGBTQ+ community. She is also adept at treating individuals diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder.

Her grief and loss work is broad but focuses on motherless daughters, maternal grief and wounding, and emotional abandonment. Jessica also works with individuals who have experienced miscarriage, fertility-related issues, post-partum depression, anxiety, and psychosis, as well as post-partum PTSD. She also works with individuals undergoing IVF and who have struggled with women’s health issues, such as Endometriosis and PCOS, as well as individuals who are pregnant and struggling with an eating disorder.

Jessica’s favorite part of being a therapist is guiding each client in their transformation and witnessing each step as it is achieved. Jessica will work with the client to identify what is deeply meaningful and important in that person’s life. The client will develop concrete skills to get their needs met directly. Jessica will help the client to develop powerful, inner resources, including self-compassion, emotion regulation techniques, radical self-acceptance, and confidence. Jessica earned her undergraduate degree from Sarah Lawrence College with a concentration in literature, nonfiction writing, and French.  She earned a master’s degree in Advanced Clinical Practice in Social Work from New York University.  She also earned a Master of Studies in Law with a concentration in Health Law from UC Law San Francisco. Currently, she is enrolled in a doctorate in social work program through Simmons University.

LCSW# 87286

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Jessica C. Lief, MSW, LCSW

"Jessica’s style has been described as nurturing, empathetic, and empowering. She is direct, authentic and will never blame you for your suffering. She enjoys using humor in psychotherapy."

Groups Facilitated by Jessica
Identity Group