Dr. Gregory J. Payton collaborates with other researchers to investigate the efficacy of treatment interventions—targeting sexual risk-taking and substance use behaviors—aimed at the prevention of HIV and harm reduction within HIV+ populations.

Dr. Payton’s research interests constellate around themes of risk and resiliency within LGBT populations. Utilizing qualitative and quantitative methodology, his work investigates the following: (1) the relationships between biopsychosocial characteristics and behavioral health outcomes; (2) evidence-based treatment methods and mental health outcomes; (3) identity development and resiliency within marginalized populations.

Dr. Payton received his Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Columbia University, Teachers College. He received the Dean’s Grant for Student Research to support his dissertation—the first in a series of ongoing investigations that examine the interrelatedness of race, gender, sexual orientation and mental health outcomes within LGBT populations. Previous research projects include program evaluations of LGBT foster care, as well as investigations of gender identity development and the constituents of resiliency within LGBT populations.

Dr. Payton’s clinical training includes a two year externship appointment at the Lucy A. Wicks, HIV/AIDS outpatient psychiatric clinic of Columbia-Presbyterian Hospital in New York. Greg completed a predoctoral internship at New York University Medical Center’s Rusk Institute, with specialized training in neuropsychological assessment and cognitive remediation. Dr. Payton also completed a postdoctoral fellowship at New York University’s Counseling and Behavioral Health Center, with a specialization in substance abuse and motivational interviewing.

Additionally, Dr. Payton has held adjunct teaching and clinical supervisory positions at Columbia University, Teachers College. Greg has also served as a consultant for The Matthew Shepard Foundation and is a Point Scholar alumnus.

Selected Publications:
Venarde, D. & Payton, G.J. (under review). Clinical interventions for college students with substance abusing parents. In Children of Alcohol and Other Drug Abusing Parents: Treatment Issues and Interventions. Straussner, S.L.A. & Fewell, C.H. (Eds).

Payton, G.J. (2008). Identity and mental health among gay white men: The interrelations of race, gender and sexual orientation. Dissertation Advisor: Marie Miville, Ph.D. Columbia University.

Hage, S.M., Hopson, A., Siegel, M., Payton, G ., & DeFanti, E. (2006). Multicultural training in spirituality: An interdisciplinary review. Counseling and Values. 50(3) 217-234.