MELINDA FOWLKS
South Jordan,Utah
Summary
Compassionate and results-driven Medical Social Worker with extensive experience in trauma-informed care, crisis intervention, and interdisciplinary collaboration within hospital and behavioral health settings. Adept at conducting psychosocial assessments, navigating complex care systems, and connecting individuals to community resources. Strong ability to de-escalate crises, support vulnerable populations, and foster trust across diverse demographics. Passionate advocate for holistic, person-centered healing and recovery.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Inpatient Cardiovascular Acute Care Social Work
University of Utah Hospital
08.2025 - Current
- Conduct comprehensive psychosocial assessments of patients admitted with acute cardiac events.
- Identify risk factors such as mental health issues, substance use, family dynamics, housing instability and lack of support.
- Provide emotional support and crisis intervention to patients and families facing fear, uncertainty and/or grief.
- Collaborate with providers, nurses, and case management to plan safe discharges.
- Connect patients and families to financial support services, housing services, and disability services.
- Guide families through advanced care planning and support through acute crisis due to complications.
Emergency Dept. and Inpatient Floor Social Worker
University Of Utah Hospital
06.2023 - 07.2025
- Perform comprehensive psychosocial assessments in emergency and inpatient settings.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams for discharge planning and service coordination.
- Deliver crisis intervention and de-escalation services for patients and families.
- Educate patients on community resources, recovery strategies, and follow-up care.
Intake Specialist
Huntsman Mental Health Institute
06.2023 - 11.2023
- Complete intake assessments and risk evaluations for mental health patients.
- Coordinate care placement and referrals with clinical and operations teams.
- Facilitate STEPS recovery support groups and provide community education.
Social Worker Intern Therapist
University Of Utah Health
08.2022 - 05.2023
- Conducted therapy sessions under supervision, utilizing evidence-based practices.
- Developed treatment plans based on clinical assessments and client goals.
- Partnered with physicians and pharmacists to deliver integrated patient care.
Patient Relations Specialist
University Of Utah Hospital
09.2021 - 05.2023
- Assisted patients with admissions, records, insurance verification, and concerns.
- Served as liaison between patients, families, and hospital departments.
- Ensured HIPAA compliance and accurate documentation of interactions.
Experiential Meeting Coordinator
The Phoenix Recovery Center
01.2020 - 01.2022
- Facilitated experiential workshops for clients in recovery from substance use.
- Recruited community experts to teach life skills and wellness practices.
- Managed logistics for events, speakers, and client-facing activities.
Education
Master of Science - Medical Social Work
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, Utah05.2023
Bachelor of Science - Social Work
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, UT05.2022
Bachelor of Science -
Licenses & Certifications
Associate of Science - General Studies
Snow College
Ephraim, UT05.1992
Skills
- Psychosocial Assessment & Care Planning
- Crisis Intervention & Trauma-Informed Support
- Medical & Psychiatric Social Work
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration
- Group & Individual Counseling
- EPIC Proficiency
- DSM-5 & Evidence-Based Interventions
- Motivational Interviewing & CBT
- Nonprofit Leadership (Board Director, Soap2Hope since 2021)
Timeline
Inpatient Cardiovascular Acute Care Social Work
University of Utah Hospital
08.2025 - Current
Emergency Dept. and Inpatient Floor Social Worker
University Of Utah Hospital
06.2023 - 07.2025
Intake Specialist
Huntsman Mental Health Institute
06.2023 - 11.2023
Social Worker Intern Therapist
University Of Utah Health
08.2022 - 05.2023
Patient Relations Specialist
University Of Utah Hospital
09.2021 - 05.2023
Experiential Meeting Coordinator
The Phoenix Recovery Center
01.2020 - 01.2022
Master of Science - Medical Social Work
University of Utah
Bachelor of Science - Social Work
University of Utah
Bachelor of Science -
Licenses & Certifications
Associate of Science - General Studies
Snow College
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