Psychologist
Dr. Kaycee Fortanasce
Dr. Kaycee Fortanasce is a licensed Clinical Psychologist based in San Diego, California, with extensive expertise in forensic psychology, neuropsychology, and trauma recovery. She currently serves as the President and Clinical Psychologist at N.E.S.T. Psychology Assess, Treat, Grow, Inc., where she specializes in psychotherapy for first responders and military personnel, as well as complex personality and neuropsychological diagnostics. Throughout her career, she has held significant roles in military and state correctional facilities, including the Naval Brig and R.J. Donovan State Prison, providing forensic assessments and treatment for specialized populations. Dr. Fortanasce is a member of the Psi Chi National Honors Society and is currently preparing for the Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME) licensing exam.
Dr. Fortanasce’s clinical focus is centered on high-stakes diagnostic assessment and the treatment of severe psychological trauma:
- Forensic and Correctional Psychology: Expert in prisoner intakes, recidivism risk assessments (such as STATIC-99R), and sex offender treatment.
- Neuropsychology: Specialized training in assessing neurocognitive status and functioning for conditions such as dementia, Alzheimer’s, and traumatic brain injury.
- PTSD and Trauma Recovery: Proficient in evidence-based modalities including Prolonged Exposure (PE), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
- Behavioral Medicine: Extensive experience treating the psychological components of chronic pain, insomnia, and other chronic health conditions.
- Multicultural Competency: Dedicated to culturally responsive care, with specialized experience working with Native American populations and a proficient command of the Italian language.
- Commitment to timely and thorough report delivery
- Easy scheduling with quick appointment availability
- Comprehensive medical evaluations and detailed reports tailored to meet legal needs
Dr. Fortanasce has a diverse academic background covering clinical psychology, communication, and pre-medical sciences:
- Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (PsyD): Azusa Pacific University, Azusa, CA (2015). APA-accredited with an emphasis in Forensic Psychology.
- Masters in Clinical Psychology: Pepperdine University, Los Angeles, CA (2007).
- Bachelors Degree in Communication Studies: University of San Diego, San Diego, CA (1999). Emphasis in Investigative Interviewing and Media/Journalism.
- Formal Post-Doctoral Fellowship: APA-accredited fellowship at Loma Linda Healthcare System VA Hospital, focusing on Behavioral Medicine and Trauma Recovery.
- Clinical Residency: APA-accredited residency at the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio Medical School (2015).
Dr. Fortanasce’s professional history includes leadership in private practice and clinical roles in hospital and forensic settings:
- President & Clinical Psychologist: N.E.S.T. Psychology Assess, Treat, Grow, Inc. (2025–Present). Leads treatment coordination and psychological testing for military and public service individuals.
- Clinical Psychologist: Naval Brig Corrections MAS (2024). Conducted forensic assessments, suicide screenings, and advised command on prisoner mental health.
- Staff Clinical Psychologist: R.J. Donovan State Prison (2023). Provided individual and group therapy aimed at inmate community reintegration.
- Behavioral Health Consultant Staff: Chronic Pain Clinic at Main Medical Hospital/Recruiting Depot (2022–2023). Performed fitness-for-duty evaluations and triage for active-duty personnel.
- Psychology Assistant: Worked under Dr. Philip Corrado, QME, (2016–2020) administering neuropsychological assessments and treating veterans with PTSD and comorbid medical conditions.