Switzer Learning Center Appoints New Director of Student Services

Janina Gricius to oversee referrals and student support programs at WASC-accredited non-public school

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Switzer Learning Center, a WASC-accredited non-public school and behavioral health center in Torrance, California, has appointed Janina Gricius, M.A., LMFT, ATR-BC as its new Director of Student Services. In this expanded leadership role, Gricius will manage the referral process, student intake, and oversee counseling services and support programming for the school's neurodiverse student population.

Why it matters

Switzer Learning Center serves a growing regional need for specialized, trauma-informed educational environments, partnering with 13 school districts and charter schools to support over 85 students during the 2024-25 school year. Gricius' appointment strengthens these partnerships and ensures consistent, high-quality support for students with complex learning, behavioral, and social-emotional needs.

The details

As Director of Student Services, Gricius will be the primary point of contact for school district referrals and manage the full intake process, ensuring timely communication, accurate placement decisions, and a smooth transition for students and families. She will also oversee counseling services and student support programming, including individual and group counseling, art therapy interventions, and PEERS®-based social-emotional instruction.

  • Gricius has been with Switzer Learning Center for more than eight years.
  • During the 2024–25 school year, Switzer supported more than 85 students referred from 13 school districts and charter partners.

The players

Janina Gricius

Janina Gricius, M.A., LMFT, ATR-BC is the new Director of Student Services at Switzer Learning Center. She has extensive experience in counseling, crisis response, IEP development, eligibility review, and cross-disciplinary collaboration.

Switzer Learning Center

Switzer Learning Center is a WASC-accredited non-public school and behavioral health center in Torrance, California, serving neurodiverse students in grades 5-12.

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What they’re saying

“Switzer is a place where students can access the therapeutic, behavioral, and academic supports they need to thrive.”

— Janina Gricius, Director of Student Services (EINPresswire)

The takeaway

Switzer Learning Center's appointment of Janina Gricius as Director of Student Services underscores the school's commitment to providing specialized, trauma-informed support for its growing population of neurodiverse students, strengthening partnerships with local school districts to ensure smooth referrals and consistent, high-quality care.