Payton is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate with a Masters of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Denver Seminary in Colorado. Payton has returned to the south following her Masters with the anticipation of serving her clients in a state closer to home. 

Payton obtained her undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Georgia, where she participated as a student athlete in cross country and track. Her time as an athlete created a passion towards individuals who were struggling with anxiety, OCD, and eating disorders. Payton is particularly drawn towards students, as she has experience working with college students at Colorado Christian University and leading a 17-week group for adolescents aged 13-16. Here she has specialized in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and person-centered approaches. As each of our individual lives are ever-changing, Payton believes it is important to also access a narrative lens to assist clients in redefining their life stories as they develop.

Payton's goal is to empower individuals in navigating life's challenges by supporting them in establishing resilience and self-compassion within themselves. 

When not working, Payton enjoys going on a run, hiking, and riding her bike with her husband. 

She would love to be a resource to you and can be contacted directly at pstepps@citycentercounseling.org.