Jordan L. Costen is a licensed therapist, equity advocate and respected public speaker. He is the founder of Affirmative Therapy of NOVA and Chair of the Board for Safe Space NOVA, where he leads initiatives that promote mental health awareness and inclusivity. His career is defined by a commitment to uplifting marginalised voices, supporting LGBTQ+ youth and addressing issues of resilience and equity in both personal and professional settings.
Jordan’s expertise comes from a rare blend of advanced education and broad professional experience. He holds master’s degrees in public communications and clinical social work and has worked as a clinical social worker, school social-emotional learning coach and nonprofit leader. He has guided individuals through trauma, anxiety and life transitions, using his therapeutic knowledge to shape talks that are clear, relatable and actionable for audiences.
Jordan has received numerous honours, including recognition as a Top 40 Under 40 leader and Public Citizen of the Year by the National Association of Social Workers. He has spoken for organisations such as Iron Bow Technologies, Rainbow Families and the Alexandria Police Department, as well as at national podcasts and community forums. Audiences describe him as engaging, approachable and inspiring, making him an excellent choice for events focused on mental health, leadership and inclusion.
As a speaker, Jordan stands out for his authenticity and ability to connect. He translates complex mental health and social issues into practical insights for workplaces, schools and community organisations. His speaking engagements have covered topics such as workplace stress, the challenges of minority communities, and creating safe and affirming spaces for LGBTQ+ youth. His approach combines professional expertise with real-world experience, giving audiences tools they can use immediately.
Jordan L. Costen's official speaking topics are listed as follows:
- Mental Health at Work: Navigating Stress and Stigma in Minority Communities
- LGBTQ+ Advocacy and Inclusion in Schools & Workplaces
- Mental Health and Wellness in Marginalised Communities
- Leadership, Identity, and Empowerment
- Creating Affirmative Spaces in Education and Corporate Culture
- 2025 – Licensed Clinical Social Worker (VA & DC); earned certifications as CCTP, CCATP, CSTIP
- 2024 – Appointed Chair of the Board, Safe Space NOVA; joined One Fairfax Community Roundtable
- 2021 – Named Public Citizen of the Year (NASW Virginia), Top 40 Under 40 (Leadership Center for Excellence), LGBTQ Business Leader (Washington Business Journal), Northern Virginian of the Year (Northern Virginia Magazine); founded Affirmative Therapy of NOVA
- 2020 – Received Equality Award, Arlington and Alexandria Gay & Lesbian Association
- 2019 – Honoured with Champion of Children Award, Children, Youth & Families Collaborative Commission
- 2017 – Selected for Alexandria Chamber of Commerce Top 40 Under 40
- 2016 – Founded Safe Space NOVA, serving as Executive Director until 2024
- 2013 – Top Performer Award, NTT America
How to hire Jordan L. Costen
Contact the Champions Speakers Agency to provisionally enquire about hiring Jordan L. Costen for your next event, today. To get in touch, simply call an official booking agent on 0207 1010 553 or email us at [email protected] for more information.
** We do NOT accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, birthday messages or any other non-commercial contact with the speakers or acts. Each speaker on the website may not have necessarily worked with Champions in the past but are known to perform such engagements within the industry.
