Melissa Larkin-Skinner

Melissa Larkin-Skinner recently decided to tackle the challenge of safe, affordable and supported housing as president of CASL, Inc. (Community Assisted and Supported Living). Melissa believes housing is health care; she is passionately pursuing opportunities to create safe, affordable housing and supportive programs that bring hope and a sense of community to people experiencing myriad challenges. Prior to her new role, Melissa served as CEO of Centerstone in Florida from 2016-2024. She earned a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling from the University of South Florida and an MBA from Saint Leo University. A licensed mental health counselor with three decades of experience working in the behavioral health care field, Melissa started as a volunteer and has practiced in a variety of clinical and leadership roles.

Melissa served three terms as board chair for the Florida Behavioral Health Association and serves on the board of the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, representing Region IV nationally. She serves as the only behavioral health provider on the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Commission and serves on the Florida Commission on Mental Health and Substance Use, as appointed by the Senate President and House Speaker, respectively. Helping individuals and families thrive through increasing awareness and advocating for funding and policies to advance the system of care are her highest priorities.