Tanya Melendez

Community Education Manager | Mental Health Coach

Tanya Melendez is the Community Education Manager at Gateway to Hope, and a passionate Mental Health Coach dedicated to strengthening individuals, families, and communities through education, advocacy, and compassionate support. 

She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Communications from the University of Houston–Downtown and later completed a Master’s degree in Nonprofit Management. Combining academic knowledge with extensive field experience, Tanya brings both professionalism and heartfelt compassion to her work. 

With more than 17 years of experience serving alongside Child Protective Services, Harris County District Courts, and community organizations, Tanya has worked extensively with children, families, and vulnerable populations facing trauma, crisis, and mental health challenges. Her career has centered on promoting healing, resilience, and access to meaningful support systems that empower long-term well-being. 

As a speaker, educator, and advocate, Tanya is known for delivering engaging and impactful presentations on mental health awareness, trauma-informed care, community support, and the growing role of Mental Health Coaches in bridging gaps in care. Her approach combines practical tools, real-life experience, and genuine compassion to create conversations that inspire hope and action. 

Outside of her professional role, Tanya actively serves in church leadership through women’s ministry and Spanish ministry outreach. She is deeply committed to helping others discover healing, purpose, and personal growth while equipping communities to respond to mental health needs with empathy and understanding. 

Tanya lives by the belief: 

“I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples.”
— Mother Teresa