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Community Outreach Specialist

David Lawrence Centers for Behavioral Health

Raised in Islamorada, Jessica Liria graduated from Florida Gulf Coast University, earning dual Bachelor of Science degrees in criminal justice and forensic studies and a Master of Science degree in forensic studies with a concentration in forensic behavior analysis. She has worked as a community outreach specialist for the David Lawrence Centers for Behavioral Health, or DLC, since 2013.

“I remember my mom always saying, ‘Broaden your horizons,’ and that always stuck with me. It gave me the confidence to try new things and be open to new ideas,” she says. “Although behavioral health was not always my intended career field, I found my hidden passion in educating others and raising awareness on the importance of mental health. Working with DLC, I’ve held numerous roles spanning the continuum of care, from prevention to crisis services.”

Liria also participates in many coalitions and community groups in Collier County and throughout Southwest Florida. She is a certified instructor in Mental Health First Aid along with several other evidence-based training programs, and is a graduate of Associate Leadership Collier class of 2021.