Meg Jay

Meg Jay, an esteemed clinical psychologist and educator, has profoundly influenced the discourse on early adult development and mental health. A clinical assistant professor at the University of Virginia, Dr. Jay also manages a thriving private practice in Charlottesville, Virginia. Her academic journey began with a B.A. with High Distinction in psychology from the University of Virginia, culminating in a Ph.D. in clinical psychology and gender studies from the University of California, Berkeley. While at Berkeley, she contributed significantly as a research associate on the Mills Longitudinal Study, which has provided invaluable insights into female adult development. Her research, particularly on women and depression, has been recognized and supported by the National Institute of Mental Health, and her scholarly articles have been featured in prestigious publications such as the Journal of the American Psychoanalytic Association and Psychological Assessment. Dr. Jay's acclaimed book, "The Defining Decade: Why Your Twenties Matter—And How to Make the Most of Them Now," has resonated deeply with readers and critics alike, earning a 2012 Slate.com Staff Pick and further popularized by her thought-provoking TED talk, "Why 30 Is Not the New 20," which has captivated millions of viewers. This seminal work emphasizes the critical importance of the twenties as a formative decade, urging young adults to embrace opportunities and challenges with intentionality. Her insights have been disseminated across a wide array of media outlets, including the New York Times, Los Angeles Times, and NPR, solidifying her status as a leading voice in the field of psychology. With a writing style that deftly combines scholarly rigor and accessible prose, Dr. Jay explores themes of identity, ambition, and the psychological intricacies of adulthood. Her contributions extend beyond the written word, as she has been an award-winning lecturer and served as adjunct faculty at Berkeley, where she taught an array of psychology courses. By supervising doctoral students and participating as a fellow with organizations like the American Psychoanalytic Association, Dr. Jay continues to advance her field, inspiring a new generation of psychologists and enriching our understanding of human development.