About
Madeline Watkins, MSW, LCSW-S
A Baylor graduate with roots deep in West Texas, Madeline became a social worker not solely by career choice – but because it has always been the truest expression of how she shows up in the world. Much like the desert landscape of her youth, her earlier years were not without adversity or trial. As a young girl, life demanded she discover beauty in the most unforgiving places and foster a transformative “grit” that would later become the effortless strength and compassion she embodies today.
“The size of your dreams must always exceed your current capacity to achieve them. If your dreams do not scare you, they are not big enough.”
Elizabeth Johnson Sirleaf
Over the last decade, Madeline has worked in hospitals, emergency departments, jails and prisons, court systems, the veterans’ health care system, and children’s homes. She has been an advocate for minorities, survivors of sexual assault, people experiencing homelessness, survivors of extreme trauma and individuals in recovery. Her experience as a social worker makes her an exceptional therapist, holding a deep understanding of how structural violence and systemic neglect can impact both individual mental health and communal well-being.
Madeline holds a Bachelor’s degree in Christian Studies with a minor in Spanish from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor. Her studies have spanned the countries of Ecuador, the Dominican Republic, and Mexico. Although she initially pursued Christian ministry, she went on to earn a Master’s degree in Social Work from Baylor University, concentrating on the impact of trauma on individuals and communities. Her work has consistently challenged traditional Christian ideologies, prioritizing the holistic well-being of a person with an unwavering commitment to justice and inclusion, helping all people feel seen, heard, and valued.
Madeline currently practices as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Lubbock, Texas.
She resides here with her orange cat, Dunkin, and grey kitten, Junie. You can catch her on a weekend visiting her beloved grandparents, Damon and Linda, or planning a last minute trip to El Paso in search of the best margarita or most breath-taking mountain to climb.
As a person, Madeline is deeply passionate and committed to healing in the context of rich, communal diversity. She loves throwing herself into the vibrant, local scenes of Hispanic heritage and culture. She enjoys friendship with kindred souls all-too-familiar with the ache and beauty of being human.
Whether chatting with locals at a cozy bar or chasing down live mariachi, Madeline's warm, carefree spirit lights up a room, transcending cultural barriers and making all around her feel at home.