Unlocking Potential Through Science
Dr. Alan Jacobson, Psy.D., MBA, Founder, Center for Applied Psychological Science
Explore cutting-edge therapies and coaching techniques designed to enhance mental well-being and personal growth.
Dr. Alan Jacobson, Psy.D., MBA
Meet Dr. Jacobson:
Dr. Alan Jacobson, is a senior-level clinical psychologist who has dedicated over two decades to advancing the field of applied psychology. With a Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Hartford, Dr. Jacobson has been trained in a variety of advanced and innovative therapies. His journey began with a passion for understanding human behavior as a Child Study major in the world-renowned Elliot Pearson School at Tufts University, leading him to work with diverse populations across the globe. He also holds an MBA from the Isenberg School at the University of Massachusetts. As a published author and frequent speaker at conferences, Dr. Jacobson continues to influence the field with his powerful and practical applications of psychological science.
At a Glance:
- 20+ years experience
- Founder, CAPS
- Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PsyD), MBA
- Expertise in testing, therapy, and performance psychology
- Executive consultant and former CEO
Full Founder Bio:
Dr. Alan Jacobson is a licensed clinical psychologist, executive consultant, and founder of the Center for Applied Psychological Science (CAPS)—a multidisciplinary organization dedicated to integrating psychological science with real-world performance, clinical care, and organizational impact. With over two decades of experience spanning psychotherapy, psychological assessment, executive leadership, and systems-level consulting, Dr. Jacobson brings a uniquely comprehensive and forward-thinking approach to human functioning—one that emphasizes precision, integration, and the cultivation of meaningful, sustainable growth.
At CAPS, Dr. Jacobson leads a model that bridges traditionally siloed domains, including clinical psychology, performance psychology, therapeutic tutoring, and applied behavioral science. His work is grounded in rigorous assessment, evidence-based intervention, and a deep respect for individual variability, while also incorporating innovation, systems thinking, and what he describes as Natural Foresight—a framework focused on aligning decision-making with long-term clarity, adaptability, and purpose.
Clinical and Assessment Expertise
Dr. Jacobson provides comprehensive psychological services across a wide range of populations and settings. His clinical work includes:
- Individual and couples psychotherapy
- Comprehensive psychological and neurocognitive evaluations
- Diagnostic clarification and second-opinion assessments
- Academic, standardized testing, and professional accommodations evaluations
- Executive and leadership psychological assessments
His assessment work is particularly recognized for its depth, clarity, and practical utility—helping individuals, students, and professionals translate complex data into actionable strategies. He regularly conducts evaluations for high-stakes contexts, including academic accommodations, professional licensure, and organizational decision-making. Dr. Jacobson’s work meets the highest stadards, including those of the American Psychological Association and the National Register of Health Service Psychologists.
Performance Psychology & Applied Science
In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Jacobson is the Founder of Performance Psychology Group, where he works with executives, founders, and high-performing individuals to optimize cognitive, emotional, and strategic functioning. His approach integrates:
- Executive functioning and decision-making optimization
- Emotional regulation under pressure
- Strategic clarity and long-term planning
- Scalable performance systems
This work reflects a broader commitment to applying psychological science beyond traditional clinical settings—helping individuals and organizations operate with greater precision, resilience, and intentionality in complex environments.
Leadership, Business, and Organizational Impact
Dr. Jacobson’s background extends well beyond clinical practice into senior executive leadership and organizational transformation.
He previously served as Chief Executive Officer of a multi-division human services organization, where he led a comprehensive turnaround—transforming a significant financial deficit into a sustainable surplus through strategic growth, operational refinement, and culture-building. He has also held senior leadership roles overseeing large-scale behavioral health, residential, and social service programs, managing multi-million dollar budgets and complex, multi-system operations.
Across these roles, Dr. Jacobson has consistently focused on:
- Aligning mission with operational execution
- Enhancing quality of care and service delivery systems
- Strengthening organizational culture and workforce stability
- Driving sustainable growth through data-informed strategy
Today, he consults with healthcare organizations, leadership teams, and founders on clinical operations, performance optimization, and strategic development—helping organizations expand their impact while maintaining integrity and evidence-based standards.
Philosophy: Integration, Potential, and Forward Movement
A defining feature of Dr. Jacobson’s work is his emphasis on integration—bringing together clinical insight, performance science, and practical strategy into a cohesive model of human development.
His approach is grounded in several core principles:
- Psychological science should be applied, not abstract
- Assessment should lead to clarity and action, not just diagnosis
- Performance and well-being are interconnected, not separate domains
- Growth is most sustainable when aligned with meaning, values, and long-term direction
Across all areas of his work, there is a consistent focus on strength, potential, and forward movement—helping individuals and organizations not only address challenges, but build capacity for what comes next.
Speaking, Media, and Consulting
Dr. Jacobson is an active speaker, consultant, and media contributor on topics related to psychological assessment, performance psychology, executive functioning, and applied behavioral science.
His work has included:
- Guest lectures at graduate-level psychology programs
- Media appearances on regional television and national radio platforms
- Podcast interviews on performance, mental health, and leadership
- Advisory and board roles across educational, clinical, and nonprofit organizations
He has also served as a subject matter expert and consultant across a range of sectors, contributing to interdisciplinary initiatives that bridge psychology, education, and organizational development.
Education
- PsyD, Clinical Psychology – University of Hartford
- MBA (High Honors) – University of Massachusetts Amherst
- BA, Child Study (cum laude) – Tufts University
Work With Dr. Jacobson
Dr. Jacobson’s work spans multiple service areas within the broader CAPS ecosystem:
- Psychological Testing & Assessments
https://psychologicalassessments.com - Therapy & Clinical Services
https://dralanjacobson.com - Performance Psychology & Executive Consulting
https://performancepsychology.org - Therapeutic Tutoring
https://therapeutictutoring.com
Professional Journey
2021 – Present
Founder and Chief Psychologist
Center for Applied Psychological Science
Leading a team of experts in developing and implementing advanced therapeutic techniques, focusing on integrative psychotherapy, innovative therapies such as EMDR and vasovagal, and precision psychological testing.
2011 – 2021
C-Level Leadership
CEO Italian Home for Children; SVP, Programs, JFCS Boston
Provided executive coaching to top-tier professionals, integrating psychological insights to enhance leadership skills and organizational effectiveness.
2000 – 2011
Clinical Psychologist
Mindful Therapy Center
Specialized in cognitive-behavioral therapy and trauma recovery, helping clients navigate complex psychological challenges with innovative treatment plans.
In My Own Words
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and the Founder and Chief Psychologist of the Center for Applied Psychological Science, an organization dedicated to advancing the practice of modern psychological assessment. Although I spent many years providing psychotherapy, my professional work now centers primarily on comprehensive evaluation and high-stakes psychological decision-making.
My specialty is the design and interpretation of structured, evidence-based assessments that produce clear conclusions, defensible documentation, and meaningful recommendations. These evaluations often address complex questions involving ADHD, executive functioning, learning differences, diagnostic clarification, and situations in which precise psychological analysis is essential for academic, professional, or institutional decision-making.
I created the Center for Applied Psychological Science to bring together rigorous assessment methodology, advanced clinical reasoning, and an innovation-driven approach to applied psychology. With doctoral training in clinical psychology and an MBA focused on organizational leadership, I view psychological evaluation not simply as a clinical task, but as a sophisticated analytical process that informs important real-world decisions and must meet the highest standards of professional scrutiny.
My clinical training included more than 5,000 hours of supervised practice across multiple settings, and I have continued extensive professional development well beyond licensure. I am credentialed by the National Register of Health Service Psychologists, a designation that reflects nationally recognized standards for doctoral-level training and professional competency.
Today I lead the development of evaluation protocols, methodological standards, and documentation practices across the organization. While highly qualified clinicians contribute to services within the practice, I remain actively involved in overseeing clinical rigor, advancing innovative assessment approaches, and ensuring that each evaluation reflects the highest level of applied psychological science.
Services are available both in person and through secure telehealth platforms in jurisdictions where licensure permits. When remote assessment is utilized, procedures follow validated administration protocols designed to maintain reliability, clinical integrity, and defensibility.
Discover Transformative Solutions
Ready to explore how advanced therapies can enhance your well-being and professional life? Applied Psychological Science is here to guide you. Whether you’re interested in therapy, psychological testing, executive coaching, or innovative techniques like vasovagal, EMDR, and HRV, we offer personalized solutions to meet your unique needs. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule your consultation.
