Jessica Love Jordan – A Journey of Empowerment, Self-Acceptance, and Advocacy in Behavioral Health
Jessica Love Jordan’s journey from a transfer student to a full-time faculty member at Governors State University (GovState) is a testament to her resilience and dedication to helping others. Raised in a family where education was a core value, Jessica’s early experiences, including her parents teaching her how to read, ignited her passion for learning and set her on a path toward counseling and education.
After transferring to GovState and becoming a new mom, Jessica found that the university played a crucial role in building a foundation to support her family and serve as an example for her daughter. As a faculty member today, she continues to contribute to that foundation-building process for others. Her professional journey was shaped by her time as a student worker, which helped her develop essential skills in communication and customer service—skills she still uses as a counselor and educator.
Jessica’s career in behavioral health was driven by a deep sense of purpose in serving others. “Witnessing people rebuild their lives from rock bottom is awe-inspiring,” she says. She specializes in working with individuals facing substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders, areas often underserved and misunderstood. As both a clinician and educator, Jessica is most rewarded by the “lightbulb moments” when her students or clients experience breakthroughs and make lasting changes.
In her counseling practice, Jessica integrates holistic wellness principles, focusing on how physical, emotional, social, and occupational well-being are interconnected. “True wellness comes from understanding how these areas influence each other,” she explains. She uses a biopsychosocial approach to assess clients and provide comprehensive care, making referrals when necessary.
Jessica’s belief in the power of self-acceptance is central to her approach, both personally and professionally. “I believe a lot of present-day concerns stem from the tension between who we are at our core and the roles we’ve assumed,” she says. In her work with clients, she helps them identify and challenge limiting beliefs, empowering them to live more authentically.
To students aspiring to follow her career path, Jessica advises, “Go for it! Find what you’re passionate about, and get creative in making it work for your life.” She encourages them to embrace opportunities, stretch beyond their comfort zones, and practice self-acceptance along the way.
Jessica’s journey from student to faculty member and private practitioner embodies the values of resilience, lifelong learning, and empowering others. The Alumni Association at GovState is proud of her accomplishments and looks forward to her continued impact in the field of counseling and education.
Author: Jocelyn Bell, Alumni Relations Communication Coordinator