Melanie Payne, LCSW

Melanie Payne, LCSW, is a dedicated and highly skilled licensed clinical social worker with over 13 years of experience serving diverse communities, with a specialized focus on youth mental health. She holds both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Social Work from Stephen F. Austin State University and has built a strong foundation in crisis intervention, psychosocial assessments, treatment planning, and case management. Throughout her career, Melanie has worked across a range of clinical settings, including hospitals, hospice care, psychiatric facilities, and community-based programs, consistently demonstrating her commitment to improving patient outcomes through compassionate, ethical, and collaborative care.

Currently serving as a Clinical Social Worker III, Melanie provides comprehensive mental health services, including psychiatric assessments, crisis intervention, and care coordination for adolescents and adults. Her professional experience includes work with interdisciplinary teams in inpatient psychiatric units, hospice and palliative care, and outpatient therapy settings. She is highly knowledgeable in identifying and addressing complex issues such as trauma, abuse, neglect, and domestic violence, and she works diligently to connect patients and families with the resources and support systems they need. Her background also includes providing discharge planning, facilitating therapy sessions, and advocating for vulnerable populations within both medical and community environments.

In addition to her clinical work, Melanie is deeply passionate about youth advocacy and has developed her own therapeutic approach, “Mel’s Logic,” which focuses on proactive, structured, and interactive care for inner-city youth ages 10 to 18. Using a blend of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), art, music, and life skills training, she creates personalized treatment plans designed to meet each client’s unique needs. Inspired by her upbringing and her parents’ dedication to community service, Melanie is committed to reshaping the narrative around underserved youth, empowering them with the tools, structure, and support necessary to thrive.

• AA in Criminal Justice from Community College
• Bachelor's of Science in Music from Full Sail University
• Master's of Social Work from Morgan State University (Summa Cum Laude)

• Licensed Therapist
• Licensed in Anger Management
• ADHD Certification (in progress)
• Trauma-Informed Care Certification (in progress)

• Graduated Summa Cum Laude from Morgan State University
• Top of Class at Morgan State University
• Honor Society Member at Morgan State University

• Honor Society at Morgan State University
• National Association of Social Workers

I am currently writing a book about turning trauma into triumph, sharing my personal experiences of overcoming being set on fire, sexual assault, multiple suicide attempts as a child, and molestation. The book will focus on how these painful experiences, though I didn't understand them at the time, made me the powerhouse I am today. I am working with a coach who is encouraging me to complete this project.