AUTHOR

Jessica Fortunato PsyD

Licensing & Certifications:

Psychologist with a Psy.D. degree License Number: PS00986
Trained in Co-Active Coaching

Professional Background

Dr. Jessica Fortunato is a Clinical Psychologist, Internet Addiction Specialist, Professional Coach and Educator. She obtained her BA in Psychology from Harvard University, and later obtained her doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology. Over the past 15 years, Dr. Fortunato has provided treatment, supervision and consultation at several hospitals, mental health clinics and schools.

Currently, Dr. Fortunato enjoys her private practice in Providence, Rhode Island working with adolescents, adults, couples and families. In the past 5 years, she has been increasingly focused on the impacts of digital media use on youth, families and society. Dr. Fortunato’s observations and concern about the negative impacts of overuse on humanity is so significant and pervasive that she founded the Humedia Project in 2020 to offer a place for families, couples, individuals, schools and organizations to find resources and support for managing the complex and challenging terrain of integrating technology into our lives.

When Dr. Fortunato is not providing services, consultation and workshops on this topic, she is an Associate Faculty Member at the Brown University Medical School and co-teaches a course in Doctoring for second year medical students. Outside of work, she is an avid paddle boarder and will take any opportunity to be near the ocean for a quiet day of solitude or a beautiful day of connection with her teenage daughter, husband or friends.

Professional Affiliations:

American Psychological Association
International Association of Women
Berkman Klein Center for Internet and Society, Harvard University
Center for Humane Technology

Education:

B.A. in Psychology, Harvard University
PSY.D. Clinical Psychology, Child and Family Track,
California School of Professional Psychology,
San Francisco, CA

Areas of Focus

Dr. Jessica Fortunato, PsyD, is a Clinical Psychologist and Internet Addiction Specialist dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate mental health challenges in the digital age. With a focus on adolescent development and technology-related issues, she empowers clients to find balance and well-being.

Jessica Fortunato utilizes a number of therapeutic approaches, including:

Internet Addiction and Technology related mental health issues
Adolescent Development
Couples Treatment
Parenting

Anxiety Disorders
Mood Disorders
Trauma
PTSD

How Social Media Affects Teens

Research shows excessive teen social media use can contribute to poor mental health, identity development, self-esteem, social skills, and empathy. Social media is not necessarily bad, and many teens use their platforms without experiencing these challenges. However, recognizing problematic social media use can help parents ensure their teens maintain balanced, informed, and intentional online behavior.

October 10, 2020

Social Media & Self-Esteem: 8 Possible Impacts

Social media can seriously damage self-esteem depending on how individuals use these platforms. Excessive and unhealthy social media use can leave people dissatisfied with themselves and their lives, increasing the risk of poor self-talk and image. Because low self-esteem can be harmful, individuals must understand the potential risks and learn to use social media in an informed, intentional, and healthy manner.

October 10, 2020

Recent Articles

Social Media & Self-Esteem: 8 Possible Impacts October 10, 2023

How Social Media Affects Teens September 9, 2023