executive director of the center for healing and recovery
Dr. Jessica Agudelo Benito, DSW, LCSW
Doctor of Social Work (DSW)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Missouri
Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), Kansas
Dr. Jessica brings with her a wealth of experience. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker originating from New York City with 10+ years of experience working with culturally diverse and at risk populations across multiple settings including behavioral health inpatient and outpatient settings, acute medical health systems, community based organizations, and public school systems.
Dr. Jessica earned a dual Bachelor’s of Arts degree in Psychology and Economics from the State University of New York - Stony Brook and subsequently her Master’s degree in Social Work from the Stony Brook – School of Social Welfare.
Dr. Jessica earned her Doctorate in Social Work from the University of Southern California - Suzanne Dworak School of Social Work focusing her capstone work on designing innovative healthcare solutions that combine the power of behavioral health and advancements in neuroscience to address the lifelong, adverse effects of childhood adversity and developmental trauma.
Since moving to Kansas City, Dr. Jessica has served the behavioral health community through many local institutions including Truman Medical Center, Saint Luke's Health System, Shawnee Mission Medical Center, Two Rivers Behavioral Health System, Signature Psychiatric Hospital, Signature Behavioral Health, and North Kansas City Hospital.
Currently, Dr. Jessica serves as the Chief Executive Officer of The Center for Healing and Recovery and also teaches Master of Social Work students as an Adjunct Faculty member at the University of Missouri - Kansas City.
Dr. Jessica is passionate about empowering clients to become their best selves. She is an advocate of mental health awareness, psycho-education, and life-long learning. Some of her favorite past times include traveling, volunteering, and enjoying time with her 3 pugs.
Favorite quote: "There is no heavier burden than an unfulfilled potential." - Charles M. Schulz