Meet the Founder

Dr. Jessica Torres, Psy.D.

Founder & CEO

Dr. Jessica Torres founded Psypawlogy with one simple belief: exceptional pet care begins with understanding the individual dog.

Her passion for animals has been lifelong, while her professional career has been dedicated to understanding people. Dr. Torres earned her Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) in Clinical Forensic Psychology and has worked in forensic mental health settings providing compassionate, evidence-informed psychological services to diverse populations. Throughout her career, she has developed expertise in behavior, communication, relationship-building, emotional regulation, and individualized care.

In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Torres serves as a graduate university professor, where she teaches graduate-level psychology courses and mentors future psychologists in forensic assessment, correctional psychology, ethics, report writing, and professional practice.

Outside of her professional career, animals have always been a central part of her life. As the proud dog mom to her rescue pup, Brandy, she understands firsthand the trust pet parents place in those caring for their beloved companions. That experience became the inspiration behind Psypawlogy.

Drawing from her background in psychology and her lifelong love for dogs, Dr. Torres developed The Psypawlogy Method—Psypawlogy’s signature philosophy of behavior-informed pet care.

Rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach, The Psypawlogy Method recognizes that every dog is unique. Some thrive through adventure, while others need routine, reassurance, patience, or a slower pace. The philosophy centers on six guiding principles:

  • Relationship before routine. Trust is earned through consistency, patience, and genuine connection.
  • Thoughtful observation. Every dog communicates differently. We pay close attention to body language, preferences, routines, and comfort levels.
  • Individualized care. Services are tailored to each dog’s personality, energy level, and emotional needs.
  • Enrichment with purpose. Walks, adventures, play, and rest are designed to support both physical and emotional well-being.
  • Transparent communication. Pet parents receive real-time updates, photos, visit journals, and honest communication throughout every service.
  • Professionalism in every interaction. Reliability, safety, respect, and compassionate care are at the heart of everything we do.

While Dr. Torres is not a veterinarian, certified dog trainer, or animal behaviorist, her background in psychology has shaped the way Psypawlogy approaches pet care. The Psypawlogy Method is not a dog training program or a form of animal behavior therapy. Instead, it is a philosophy of care inspired by psychological principles such as observation, trust-building, consistency, communication, and individualized support. These principles guide how Psypawlogy builds relationships with dogs and their families while respecting the expertise of veterinary and training professionals.

Today, Psypawlogy offers personalized dog walking, Adventure Club, daycare, overnight care, puppy guidance and support, and community experiences throughout the DMV. Dr. Torres’s vision is to redefine pet care by combining professionalism, compassion, and behavior-informed care to create enriching experiences for every dog. Her mission is simple: to help dogs live happier, healthier, and more fulfilling lives while giving pet parents complete confidence that their companions are cared for with the same dedication, patience, and love they would provide themselves.