Payton Horacek
2023 USTR Fellow | MA in Marriage & Family Therapy, University of Nebraska Lincoln
Payton Horacek is a dedicated Marriage and Family Therapist student (MFT) with a strong commitment to providing holistic and culturally competent mental health care. Born and raised in Omaha, Nebraska, Payton developed a passion for supporting individuals and families in her local community from an early age.
After completing her Bachelor of Science in Child, Youth, and Family Studies with double minors in Psychology and Ethnic Studies at the University of Nebraska Lincoln, Payton embarked on her counseling career. She began as a Youth Development Coach Counselor, working closely with at-risk youth in the Omaha community for three years. This experience allowed her to witness firsthand the transformative power of therapeutic support and instilled in her a deep sense of purpose to provide healing and guidance to those in need.
Driven by a desire to make a difference in the lives of children and families, Payton later joined Lutheran Family Services as a Pregnancy, Parenting, and Adoption Counselor. In this role, she provided counseling to birth parents and adoptive families throughout the child placement process and offered post-adoption support. Payton’s experience working with diverse populations and addressing complex family dynamics has enriched her understanding of the unique challenges individuals and families face.
In addition to her professional positions, Payton has dedicated her time and skills to volunteer work. She has worked with the Mourning Hope Grief Center, serving as a Group Facilitator for children, adults, and families in Lincoln, Nebraska. This experience has allowed her to support individuals through the grieving process, providing a compassionate and nurturing environment for healing.
Currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at the University of Nebraska Lincoln, Payton is expanding her skill set and knowledge to better serve her clients. As part of her educational journey, she also serves as the Counselor in Residence for the university campus dorms during the 2023-24 school year. In this role, she strives to create an inclusive and supportive environment where students can access mental health care and receive the support they need to thrive.
Payton’s passion lies in creating inviting spaces where mental health and care are embraced and regarded as positive forms of healing, particularly within BIPOC communities nationwide. She is committed to addressing the unique needs and experiences of marginalized populations, striving to provide culturally sensitive and inclusive counseling services. With her empathetic nature and dedication to promoting mental well-being, Payton Horacek is poised to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals and families as a Marriage and Family Therapist.