Melanie J. Cain, Ph.D. is originally from New Mexico and affiliated with Santa Clara Pueblo and the Jicarilla Apache tribe from New Mexico. She obtained her Ph.D. in May 2007 from Oklahoma State University. She completed her psychological internship with the Veterans Administration Hospital in Hawaii.

Since January of 2012, she has worked with the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health at the American Indian Counseling Center, first as a Clinical Psychologist II and currently as a Mental Health Program Manager. She also worked as a licensed psychologist with the San Diego American Indian Health Center. 

Dr. Cain is a veteran of the United States Air Force. The military tradition is strong in her family. Her mother and grandmother have both served in the Armed Forces.

Dr. Cain has expertise in American Indian veteran’s issues and has been able to understand their military experiences first hand.  

 As a psychologist, she is interested in understanding ways to promote mental wellness among Native people. This encompasses developing a greater understanding of the numerous biopsychosocial issues which affect Indian people. She always welcomes the chance to learn more about cultural experiences and how they may play a protective role in health and wellness. Dr. Cain and Dr. Mihecoby met through the Society of Indian Psychologist’s mentorship program.

Dr. Cain provides her services part time at CCPC as of  September 2020. She is enjoying serving the CCPC community via virtual therapy. Dr. Cain is also a delegated supervisor for the CCPC post doctoral internship training program. She is working with the master level interns on her scholarly work on positive psychology in Native American culture. She is a valuable member to the CCPC team. Given her passion and experience in serving the community, we look forward to collaborating with Dr. Cain to implement sacred knowledge to heal.