Shawnace Melendez
Enid,OK
Summary
Dynamic program operations manager with a proven track record of delivering impactful results through strong project management and leadership skills. A dual-licensed counselor (LADC/MH) with extensive experience in providing substance use and mental health treatment across diverse settings, including residential, outpatient, and correctional environments. Expertise in facilitating both group and individual therapy using ASAM criteria, evidence-based practices, and ethical documentation standards reflects a commitment to compassionate care. Eager to contribute to a mission-driven organization that prioritizes recovery and supports individuals through structured programming and trauma-informed approaches.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Program Director
Catalyst Behavioral Services
09.2025 - Current
- Leads strategic program development initiatives to enhance client service delivery and operational efficiency.
- Collaborates with cross-functional teams to implement evidence-based practices in behavioral health services.
- Mentor's and trains staff on best practices, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional growth.
- Analyzes program outcomes to drive data-informed decision-making and improve service effectiveness.
- Leads a 60 bed duel diagnosis 60-day program and staff.
- Led program development initiatives to enhance resident engagement and community involvement.
- Implemented staff training programs to improve service delivery and operational efficiency.
- Oversaw compliance with regulatory standards, ensuring quality care for all residents.
- Facilitated interdisciplinary team meetings to coordinate resident care plans effectively.
- Managed budget allocations, optimizing resource utilization across various program areas.
- Coordinated events and activities that promoted social interaction, personal growth, and skill development among residents.
- Managed a team of staff members, providing ongoing training, support, and performance evaluations for continuous improvement.
Mental Health Therapist
Catalyst Behavioral Services
01.2022 - Current
- Delivered 11.5 hours of weekly clinical services, including individual and group therapy, to adult male clients in a high-intensity residential setting (ASAM 3.5 level of care).
- Led the Intensive Treatment Team (ITT) for assigned caseload, coordinating care plans with medical, psychiatric, and support staff to ensure holistic, client-centered treatment.
- Conducted biopsychosocial assessments, developed individualized treatment plans, and provided crisis intervention as needed.
- Maintained ethical and timely documentation using ThinkHealth, a secure, HIPAA-compliant EHR system; collaborated with nursing and case management through PICIS for care coordination.
- Ensured all therapeutic interventions met clinical, ethical, and licensing standards; regularly participated in interdisciplinary meetings and audits.
- Collaborated with residential staff to implement and monitor staff protocol acquittal, reinforcing consistent therapeutic structure across the unit.
NWOSU CADC Counselor
Bill Johnson Correctional Center
02.2020 - 12.2022
- Provided substance use disorder treatment services to incarcerated men in a secure correctional setting, delivering curriculum-based group therapy aligned with ASAM Criteria and institutional protocols.
- Facilitated structured, evidence-based substance abuse groups for up to 15 participants, focusing on relapse prevention, cognitive restructuring, criminal thinking, and personal accountability over a six-month program cycle.
- Conducted assessments, developed individualized treatment plans, and documented progress in accordance with legal, clinical, and facility standards.
- Ensured accurate and timely completion of clinical documentation, treatment reviews, and discharge/aftercare planning for community reentry or transitional programs.
- Promoted a consistent therapeutic environment within the facility, collaborating with custody and mental health staff to support client safety and behavioral stability.
- Maintained professional boundaries and confidentiality in accordance with correctional policies, HIPAA, and ethical guidelines for addiction professionals.
Education
Masters - Counseling Psychology
01.2025
Master of Science - Masters of Counseling Psychology
Northwestern Oklahoma State University
Alva, OK05-2025
Skills
- Addiction counseling
- Proficient in ThinkHealth, PICIS, Microsoft Word, and Adobe
- Assessments
- Mental health counseling
- Program leadership
- Strategic planning
- Regulatory compliance
- Policy Implementation
- Group and individual instruction
Accomplishments
- Supervised team of 30 staff members.
- Used Microsoft Excel to develop inventory tracking spreadsheets.
- Created effective Excel sheets to enhance data collections for team uniformity.
- Collaborated with team of 30 in supporting and collaboration of CARF Facility auit.
Certification
Licensed Drug & Alcohol and Mental Health Counselor (LADC/MH)
Timeline
Program Director
Catalyst Behavioral Services
09.2025 - Current
Mental Health Therapist
Catalyst Behavioral Services
01.2022 - Current
NWOSU CADC Counselor
Bill Johnson Correctional Center
02.2020 - 12.2022
Masters - Counseling Psychology
Master of Science - Masters of Counseling Psychology
Northwestern Oklahoma State University
ACTIVITES
Reading, Education, Running, Army National Guard
LEADERSHIP
- Army National Guard Veteran | Human Resources
- Dedicated Army National Guard Soldier with 10+ years of service in Human Resources, bringing leadership, structure, and ethical integrity to every professional setting. Known for strong leadership abilities, professional discipline, and a balanced approach to leading and being led—qualities that enhance therapeutic alliance, clinical teamwork, and client outcomes in recovery environments.
CONTACT
- Enid, Ok
- 405-779-3438
- Shawnace Melendez
- Shawnacemelendez@gmail.com
CARF Facility Accreditation
CARF accreditation is an independent, international quality assurance recognition granted to behavioral health and rehabilitation programs that demonstrate compliance with rigorous standards for service delivery, safety, and organizational effectiveness. In substance abuse treatment settings, CARF accreditation verifies that a program follows evidence-based practices, maintains strong documentation and accountability systems, and meets established guidelines for client care and operational excellence. It reflects a commitment to continuous improvement, ethical practice, and high-quality services for individuals seeking treatment.