Elizabeth Godwin, a native of Brewton, was recently named as Alabama’s Mental Health Clinician of the Year during the annual conference of the Alabama Council of Community Mental Health held in Birmingham.

Godwin, who currently serves as child/adolescent therapist for Southwest Alabama Mental Health, was recognized and presented with the award by Robert Will, clinical director for SWAMH.

“Ms. Godwin is a shining example of why we chose the field of mental health,” Will said. “This is for the betterment of other people and the community.”

Godwin is a 1997 graduate of T.R. Miller High School and is currently a resident of Castleberry. In 2001, she graduated from the University of Mobile with a double major in psychology and religion with a concentration in youth ministry.

Godwin continue her education at the University of Mobile and received a master’s degree in marriage and family counseling in 2003. She obtained certification from the State of Alabama as a licensed marriage and family therapist in 2008. She is also a certified trainer for Christian Moore’s WHY TRY Program.

At Southwest Alabama Mental Health, Godwin’s current responsibilities include going into Escambia County schools to meet with students; conducting clinical sessions with consumers; and serving as the Juvenile Court Liaison for Escambia and Conecuh Counties.

The Alabama Council of Community Mental Health Boards represents its members in the planning, development, and implementation of a comprehensive system of public mental health care. The members are public providers responsive to the mental health needs of communities and are dedicated to achieving the highest standards of providing services.

Godwin is the daughter of Tommy and Charlene Godwin of Castleberry.