Jessica McCleese, Psy.D.

Bio

Dr. Jessica McCleese is a licensed clinical psychologist and one of less than 200 certified Christian sex therapists currently in practice. McCleese started her undergraduate training with the intention of becoming a youth pastor but after taking the required counseling classes she felt the Lord leading her to change her focus and her major to begin studying psychology.

McCleese earned her M.A. and her Psy.D. from Regent University. After completing her post-doctorate and working for two years as a psychologist in Texas, she returned to Virginia Beach where she has worked with both couples and individuals in both her own private practice and in Christian group practices in Hampton Roads. Additionally, McCleese has been involved in working at and with Regent since 2015 through adjunct teaching and supervision of students. She now continues this work as associate professor and director of the Psychological Services Center.

While McCleese greatly enjoys her work, she also enjoys serving other Christians through volunteering at her church. She may also be one of the biggest proponents of self-care that you ever meet. Her favorite forms of self-care include hanging out with her husband while eating out or reading together in a coffee shop, spending time with her closest girlfriends, or relentlessly pursuing that next grade at her local climbing gym.

Education

Professional Licensure/Certification

Publications

McCleese, J., and Creech, Chelsi A. (2020). Adolescent Sexuality. In Sandra L. Glahn & C. Gary Barnes (Eds.). Sanctified Sexuality (pp. 105-117). Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Academic.

Presentations

Chisholm, K., McCleese, J., Thompson, R., & Tan, E. (2010, January). Cognitive-behavioral therapy. Presented to Educational Therapists at Discovery Program, Inc., Norfolk, VA.

Hall, L. McCleese, J., Dodd, B. & Holt, A. R. (2011, February). Park place group protocol: Conflict resolution, grief, and incarcerated parents. Created for use with Park Place Elementary students in Norfolk, VA.

King, L. & McCleese, J. (2010, October). Instilling hope: Tools for Kids Hope USA mentors – Anger management and self-care. Presented at New Life Providence, Virginia Beach, VA.

McCleese, J., Bridges, S., & Corey, R. (2010, October). The covenantal marriage. Presented at First Presbyterian Church of Norfolk, Norfolk, VA.

McCleese, J. (2023). Scientifically proven ways to enhance the intimacy in your Christian marriage. Presented at Valentine’s Weekend Conference in partnership with Trinity Church and Lighthouse Counseling in Virginia Beach, VA..

McCleese, J. (2022). Diagnosing and Treating Sexual Concerns. 3 CE credit course for on-demand viewing at Resilience Lab. https://www.resiliencelab.us/

McCleese, J. (2022). Honoring God in your sexuality. Presented for the high school students of Atlantic Shores Christian School in Chesapeake, VA.

McCleese, J. (2022) Understanding and Treating Sexual Concerns and Difficulties. 1 CE credit course for live viewing at Charis Institute.

Van Valin, P., Chisholm, K., & McCleese, J. (2010, June). Communication skills: Speaking to agitated clients. Presented at Union Mission Ministries’ Women and Family Shelter. Virginia Beach, VA.

Affiliations