Mercedes Kent, LCSW, CADC
Program Director
Mercedes Kent is the Program Director of Alpharus Health Springfield Outpatient services. She joined the team in 2008 and obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Social work from the University of Illinois-Springfield. She then continued her educational path to obtain her Master’s Degree in Social Work, specializing in Mental Health, from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. She is currently pursuing her Doctorate in Clinical Social Work. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker as well as a Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Counselor. Mercedes coordinates the Internship program and provides clinical supervision to both Bachelors and Masters level students.
As the Program Director, Mercedes is inspired by change and helping patient’s overcome insurmountable obstacles each day. She is an integral part of the Alumni Program and provides multiple trainings to staff. Mercedes also serves as a liaison to the media to share Alpharus Health’s programs and resources as well as educating the public about substance use and mental health concerns and how to effectively cope.
“Our patient’s ability to overcome insurmountable obstacles amazes me daily. I find great fulfillment in being a catalyst to the positive changes that they make in their lives. I know that I can’t make the changes for them, but I can be that resource, listening ear, and support on their journey.”