Jessica Plazewski

Jessica Plazewski, vice president and COO of SalusCare, a mental and behavioral health care nonprofit organization based in Fort Myers, recently earned her license as a mental health counselor.

Obtaining a mental health counselor license requires rigorous training and a significant time commitment. In addition to her mental health counselor license, Plazewski previously earned her master’s level certified addiction professional (MCAP) certification, certified behavioral health case manager supervisor certification and registered mental health counselor intern certification.

Plazewski is an alumnus of Florida Gulf Coast University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal forensic studies and a master’s degree in mental health counseling. In 2023, Plazewski was named to Business Observer’s 40 Under 40 class of 2023.

“The fact that Jessica accomplished this milestone while managing her demanding role as COO with unwavering dedication speaks volumes about her passion, commitment and exceptional ability to balance multiple responsibilities,” said Stacey Cook, president and CEO of SalusCare. “Her hard work, determination and perseverance serve as an inspiration to us all. We are incredibly proud to have her leading our operations and contributing to our shared mission in such a meaningful way.”

Plazewski’s history with SalusCare dates back to 2008 when she joined the organization as an intern and worked her way up to COO. Throughout her time at SalusCare, Plazewski has helped to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health through her work with patients navigating severe mental health issues.

About SalusCare

SalusCare is a Fort Myers-based, not-for-profit mental health and substance abuse service provider incorporated in 2013 after the merger of Lee Mental Health Center and Southwest Florida Addiction Services (SWFAS) to ultimately improve care for children and adults by utilizing one seamless system of care. “Salus” means health, prosperity and safety, reflecting the focus of the organization. SalusCare has six locations with more than 350 employees throughout Southwest Florida, bringing hope and recovery to nearly 16,000 adults and children each year. All substance abuse programs and most mental health services are accredited by CARF International, an independent, nonprofit accreditor of health and human services. SalusCare is funded in part by the Florida Department and Children and Families, Central Florida Behavioral Health Network, Lee County Board of County Commissioners and United Way of Lee, Hendry & Glades counties. For information, visit saluscareflorida.org or call 239-275-3222.