Dr. Kyra Mendoza-James is a California-licensed clinical psychologist specializing in trauma treatment, evidence-based practices, and correctional psychology. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from the University of Phoenix in 2001, a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from National University in 2004, and a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology in 2006 and Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) in 2009 from Phillips Graduate Institute.

Dr. Mendoza-James began her career at the Jenesse Center, where she served as Director of Clinical Services and Residential Director from 2003 to 2005, overseeing residential housing and mental health services for women and children affected by domestic violence. Her early clinical experience also included placements at the Los Angeles Gay & Lesbian Center and Augustus F. Hawkins Family Mental Health Center, as well as behavioral services for children with autism at Intercare Therapy, Inc. She subsequently completed a clinical psychology internship at the Southern Youth Correctional Reception Center & Clinic and a postdoctoral residency treating adolescents with co-occurring addiction, behavioral, and emotional difficulties at The Center for Discovery & Adolescent Change. She obtained her California psychology license in 2011.

From March 2012 to October 2015, Dr. Mendoza-James served as Group Services Supervisor at Star View Community Services, overseeing multidisciplinary staff, programs serving approximately 80–95 clients, and the implementation of multiple evidence-based practices. Her responsibilities included clinical supervision, program management, staff training, and collaboration with schools and community partners.

From October 2015 to September 2018, she worked as a Staff Psychologist at the California Institution for Women under the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, providing assessments, therapy, crisis counseling, and program evaluation. She later served as Director of Evidence-Based Practices at Stars Behavioral Health Group from September 2018 to May 2020, overseeing clinical teams, specialized therapies, and staff development.

Since May 2020, Dr. Mendoza-James has operated Mindful Soul LLC, a private practice in Los Angeles providing individual, couples, and family therapy specializing in trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, and racial trauma. Since January 2026, she has also served as a Contract Psychologist through Astrya Global at Kern Valley State Prison, conducting psychological assessments and treatment and contributing to program development and evaluation.