Born and raised in the vibrant city of Jacksonville, Florida, Kandi Jackson has long been a beacon of compassion, leadership, and resilience within her community. Growing up in a large family with five older sisters, her deep Jacksonville roots instilled in her a heart for service and a passion for making a difference.

 

Kandi’s educational journey began in local Catholic schools and led her to graduate from Bishop Kenny High School in 2000. She remained in-state for college, attending the University of Central Florida (UCF), where she earned dual Bachelor of Arts degrees in Psychology and Social Work in 2004, followed by a Master of Social Work in 2006. Guided by the influence of a life-changing counselor at UCF, Kandi discovered her calling as a social worker—deepening her passion through impactful internships with a child advocacy agency and a residential treatment center.

 

Her professional path started at Orlando Regional Healthcare’s Healthy Families Orange, where she served in multiple roles, including Family Assessment Worker, Child Development Specialist, and Family Support Worker. Her talents for leadership and innovation emerged early, especially through her work in training staff and spearheading outreach initiatives.

 

She went on to become a Senior Children’s Service Counselor at Orange County Government, where she expanded her skills in cognitive behavioral therapy, case management, and program coordination. Kandi’s ability to manage complex systems and drive community-based solutions was evident in her success as a program liaison and her development of comprehensive statistical reporting.

 

In 2008, Kandi returned to Jacksonville and joined Shands Jacksonville/UF Health as a Case Manager on an adult Surgical/Oncology unit. There, she became a trusted advocate for patients, known for her collaborative spirit, meticulous assessments, and tireless dedication to holistic, person-centered care.

 

In October 2018, Kandi took a bold step forward and founded Restoration Counseling and Support Services LLC, igniting a new chapter as an entrepreneur and visionary leader. What began as a solo practice has since flourished into a thriving group practice on Jacksonville’s Northside.

 

Under Kandi’s leadership, Restoration Counseling has grown steadily year after year, becoming a cornerstone for individuals and families seeking trauma-informed care and mental wellness services. The practice continues to expand, rooted in its mission to provide high-quality, accessible services while removing barriers to care.

 

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and dedicated clinical supervisor, Kandi also invests in the future of the profession by mentoring the next generation of social workers. She is committed not only to healing but also to empowering others to rise in service and compassion.

 

Kandi Jackson’s journey is a powerful testament to purpose, perseverance, and the belief that true change begins with a heart to serve. Through her work, she continues to uplift, inspire, and transform lives—one individual, one family, and one community at a time.