Christy W. Payne, LCSW, is an experienced and compassionate clinical mental health professional with a deep commitment to supporting individuals and communities through crisis, trauma, and recovery. With specialized training in Substance Abuse Counseling, Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM), Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), and Suicidality Intervention and Prevention, Christy brings a trauma-informed, evidence-based approach to every facet of her work, along with her lived experience as a former foster care youth. With over a decade in the field, Christy has worked extensively with individuals experiencing acute psychological distress, including those facing suicidal ideation, substance use disorders, and complex trauma. She is especially passionate about youth advocacy, having supported adolescents and young adults navigating the intersection of trauma, systemic inequity, and mental health challenges .Christy is actively engaged in crisis response and community resilience-building, often responding to critical incidents and working to stabilize and support individuals and groups in the aftermath of traumatic events. 

​

Christy's clinical work is grounded in a strengths-based, client-centered philosophy. She integrates modalities such as ART trauma therapy and cognitive-behavioral techniques, and she is a certified trainer in suicidality prevention and intervention, equipping fellow clinicians and community leaders with tools to respond effectively to high-risk situations. 

​

Christy holds a Master of Social Work (MSW) and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW).

Outside of her professional work, Christy values self-care and creative expression, often turning to nature, writing, riding motorcycles, live music and other adventures for renewal and reflection.