Clemson Entrepreneur of the Week

Asa Briggs, DNP

Chief Executive Officer and Founder,

Briggs Psychiatry & Behavioral Health, LLC

B.A., Political Science and Government, 2002


What role do you play in the entrepreneurial ecosystem?


I see myself as both a builder and a bridge. As the owner of Briggs Psychiatry & Behavioral Health, PC, I’ve created a practice that expands access to quality mental health care while also creating opportunities for other clinicians to grow. Beyond my practice, I mentor students and early-career professionals. I’m passionate about normalizing conversations around mental health while also demonstrating that you can build a purpose-driven, sustainable business that serves both people and community.



What are some of your best memories of your time at Clemson?


My time at Clemson was foundational. Some of my best memories center around the relationships I built—lifelong friendships. I also appreciated the opportunities to grow as a communicator and leader through my Political Science major and Communication minor. Clemson challenged me to think critically, engage diverse perspectives, and step confidently into new environments—all of which have served me well in my career.


I loved going to Fall Fest and helping build a Habitat for Humanity house on Bowman Field, or simply walking past the amphitheater in the spring. If I close my eyes, those moments come flooding back, taking me right back to my time at Clemson.



What were the key inflection points in your career after you left Clemson?


There were several pivotal moments. Choosing to pursue healthcare after Clemson was a major shift that ultimately aligned me with my purpose. Advancing my education through graduate and doctoral training further refined my clinical and leadership skills. Another key inflection point was making the decision to start my own practice. Entrepreneurship requires faith, resilience, and a willingness to bet on yourself. Each transition—from student to clinician, and from clinician to business owner—required me to embrace uncertainty and continue growing.



What are your personal and professional dreams?


Personally, I want to write a couple of books, speak across the country and travel the world! 


Professionally, I aim to expand access to mental health services, particularly in underserved communities. I also want to continue mentoring the next generation of healthcare professionals and entrepreneurs, helping them see what’s possible. Long-term, I envision scaling my practice and influence in ways that shape how mental health care is delivered and discussed in marginalized spaces.



What would you recommend students do to maximize their remaining time at Clemson?


Take full advantage of the opportunities around you. Build relationships with your peers and professors—those connections matter more than you realize. Don’t be afraid to explore different paths; your journey doesn’t have to be linear. Seek out internships, leadership roles, and experiences that stretch you. Most importantly, invest in your personal growth—develop resilience, communication skills, and self-awareness. Those are the qualities that will carry you far beyond graduation.



What else should we know about you?


I believe that mental health is foundational to everything we do—it influences how we lead, how we relate to others, and how we pursue our goals. My journey hasn’t been linear, but it has been purposeful. I’m committed to using my platform to reduce stigma, empower others, and create spaces where people feel seen, heard, and supported. At the end of the day, my work is about impact—helping people become the best version of themselves.


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https://conta.cc/4sMgehC


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