About

I'm Jared Ferguson. I live in Salt Lake City, Utah. By day I work in public mental health and housing; on the side I ride bikes, make iOS apps under the name Mental Hygienist, and do some volunteer work.

Work

Director of Housing and Mental Health Services — First Step House

As part of an amazing leadership team, I am responsible for, and generally oversee, mental health services in the First Step House programs as well as all aspects of information security and electronic record-keeping. I'm proud to be a part of a highly-capable team of interdisciplinary professionals.

Consultant — Mental Hygienist

I offer clinical supervision and consultation services. I also work with local substance use disorder treatment centers, helping to improve their services through the use of evidence-based practices and technological tools.

Service

Director At Large — Association of Social Work Boards

Serving the 2025–2027 term on the ASWB Board of Directors. Previously chaired the Regulatory Education and Leadership (REAL) Committee, overseeing the planning of the ASWB's annual education meeting.

Board Member — DOPL Behavioral Health Licensing Board

Serving a four-year appointment on the Behavioral Health Licensing Board (June 2024 forward), inaugural chair 2024–2026. Previously held a Governor's appointment from July 2021 to May 2024 protecting the public from professional misconduct or malfeasance by social workers licensed in Utah.

Volunteer Coach — Utah High School Cycling League

I assist student riders in learning the skills and techniques needed for riding and racing mountain bikes — from foundational skills like breathing and bike-body separation to periodized training. The goal is progress through process: helping kids find a sport they can enjoy for life. utahmtb.org.

Volunteer Diver — Loveland Living Planet Aquarium

I assist aquarium staff and other volunteers in cleaning and maintaining tank habitats, using skills learned as an Advanced Open Water Diver, Emergency Oxygen Provider, and Emergency First Responder. livingplanetaquarium.com.

Previous Work

Adjunct Faculty — University of Utah

Worked with the School of Medicine on a program connecting substance-using individuals with dental services from in-training dental students. Taught the Practice II class in the U's Master's of Social Work program.

Contact

The best way to reach me is email.