Jodi Helbert

Jodi Helbert is an Associate Professor and founding coordinator of the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) Program at King University. She holds certifications as a Board-Certified Diplomat in Trauma-Informed Clinical Social Work and SAMHSA-trained trainer. Her work emphasizes social justice, diversity, and trauma-informed practices. She serves on multiple institutional committees including the Diversity and Inclusion Committee and chairs the Social Work Advisory Board.

Education:

• PhD in Social Work – Norfolk State University
• MSW – Radford University
• BSW – Virginia Intermont College

Research Interests: Explores intersectionality of trauma, neuroscience, and social constructs. Current focus includes mitigating vicarious trauma, compassionate leadership, and pathophysiology of addiction/Alzheimer’s. Past clinical work transitions toward addressing systemic inequities through education and community engagement.

Awards:

• 2023 NASW-TN Social Work Educator of the Year
• 2022 NASW-TN Northeast Social Worker of the Year
• Kentucky Colonel (2013)

Service & Leadership: Advisor for Phi Alpha Honor Society chapter and Social Work Action Group. Provides pro bono addiction counseling and serves on regional boards. Co-developed King University’s BSW program which received international service recognition three times.