Joel Lazar, Ph.D

Specialties

Dr. Joel Lazar is a Licensed Psychologist who provides individual, couples and family therapy. He is a funny, experienced therapist who uniquely integrates humor with cognitive therapy to help people see the positives in their self and their relationships. He has particular expertise in Men’s Psychology, and helps both men and women see how traditional definitions of masculinity and femininity limit us all. He helps clients develop all of their potential, and identify how society’s messages interfere with our self-​esteem and our relationships.

Dr. Lazar is strongly influenced by family systems theory in his work with children and teens. He believes that family members impact one another, and teasingly likes to say that «family members are all in the same boat and no matter who starts rocking the boat they are all going to get nauseous.» He involves parents in their child’s therapy to maximize mutual respect while improving the child’s judgment, cooperation and pro-​social behavior.

Dr. Lazar has expertise as an Executive Coach, and was affiliated with the Center For Creative Leadership for almost a decade. He helps managers and executives leverage their own and their subordinate’s strengths to create more successful organizations.

Dr. Lazar has taken leadership roles with the California Psychological Association and the San Diego Psychological Association, has made professional and public presentations, and has contributed to local tv, radio and newspaper pieces.

History

Established in 1990.

After earning his B.S. in Psychology at Syracuse University in New York, Dr. Lazar earned his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at the University of Maine. He moved to San Diego after graduating, and has offices in La Jolla, Point Loma and Chula Vista.

Meet the Business Owner

Joel L.

Business Owner

Dr. Lazar grew up on Long Island in New York as a shy guy who liked sports and helping others. He realized that being a psychologist would allow him to make a positive impact on other’s lives, and pursued this path in college and then graduate school. He feels grateful for this opportunity, and feels honored that his clients share their thoughts, feelings, challenges and successes with him.