Joan Lesser

Joan Lesser is an Adjunct Professor at Smith College School for Social Work. She holds a Ph.D. from New York University School of Social Work and an M.S.W. from Columbia University School of Social Work. Her clinical expertise spans psychotherapy and social work practice, with a focus on clinical topics and textbook authorship.

Her research interests include clinical social work practice, psychotherapy techniques, and social work education methodologies. She has presented nationally and internationally on clinical topics.

Lesser received the 2012 National Association of Social Workers Award for her outstanding contributions to social work practice. She maintains a private psychotherapy consultation practice in Longmeadow and has held leadership roles in Smith's MSW and Ph.D. programs.