Our Providers
David Shen-Miller, PhD
I am passionate about helping clients reach their potential. We accomplish this together through a humanistic, relational, mind-body-spirit integration that uses your strengths and resources. For me, therapy is not about fixing what is wrong, but about finding what is working and deepening your skills to increase your health, well-being, and overall happiness. I care deeply about providing excellent care, and trying out new ways of relating and thinking that may lead to change and optimize your health and connection with others. Although the past is important, we'll also focus on the here and now.
I rely on scientific practices in psychotherapy, focusing on restoring mind-body connection, self-care, and overall mental well-being. Men's health, anxiety, depression, existential issues, grief/loss, multiculturalism, and work are among my interests. Group therapy, psychological assessment, consultation, and research are also significant parts of my practice.
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I have been active in men's health for more than 20 years, including directing a Men's Center, and working as clinician, consultant, and researcher with multiple papers and two edited books. As a former ballet dancer, I am familiar with body image and performance issues as well.
Tom Farmer, PsyD
Working with individuals and families is a collaborative process. I hope to use my many clinical experiences to help guide clients through a path toward more satisfaction in life. Therapy is not a process of simple "change," but rather a process of finding and developing aspects of satisfaction in careers, families, leisure, and relationships that likely exist when we weed through the days' challenges. Through my years as a clinician, I know how to challenge that process. Through my years of teaching, I know when I can simply step aside and admire the strengths that each of us have inside.
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My experiences in psychological assessment/treatment span from neuropsychological evaluations in a medical setting to work in psychiatric hospitals for those in extreme distress. I believe I offer a wholistic and comprehensive understanding of clients. Focusing on the science and the mind-body connection are essential for genuine growth.
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I have spent years as a professor of psychology. I maintain expertise by teaching psychological assessment, family systems, and adult therapy to future clinicians at Bastyr University. While I enjoy the seeing growth in both students and clients, often they teach me how to be a better person.
Julia Alcaraz-Gamez, PsyD (Postdoctoral Fellow)
I believe our mental health and wellness is strongly influenced by our environment, experiences, and physical health. I work from a Liberation Psychology approach, which centers on developing an understanding of our environment, systems of oppression, identities/intersectionalities and health, and how these contribute to our wellness. My therapeutic approach is person-centered and trauma-informed, meaning our sessions will focus on your questions and concerns. I will work with you to find the coping skills and interventions that work best for you, with your strengths and your experiences in mind. I recently obtained my PsyD from Pacific University in Portland, OR and I am currently working towards licensure. My training was focused on Latine Psychology and working with adults, although I have also worked with adolescents. I have extensive experience with historically underserved communities including people of diverse races, ethnicities, genders, LGBTQ+, socioeconomic statuses, religions, and disabilities. I provide therapy in English and Spanish. I have helped clients deal with trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, substance use, self-esteem, self-care, stress, immigration, and guilt and shame. I have provided psychological assessment for neuropsychological conditions, ADHD, learning disorders, and diagnostic clarification. As a 1.5 generation Latina immigrant who grew up in San Diego, CA, I feel a strong connection to my cultural identity and am familiar with immigration issues, racial/ethnic trauma, generational trauma, and a strong family value.
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Yo creo que nuestra salud mental es influida por nuestro entorno, experiencias y nuestra salud física. Yo uso la teoría de psicología de liberación que se enfoca en analizar nuestro entorno, entender los sistemas de opresión, nuestras identidades y cómo estás contribuyen a nuestre bienestar. En terapia me enfoco en la persona y uso estrategias informadas del trauma, cual significa que nuestras sesiones se enfocaran en sus dudas, síntomas y/o preocupaciones y de ahí trabajaremos juntes para encontrar las estrategias e intervenciones que mejor le funcionen (con gran consideración a sus fortalezas y sus experiencias) para manejar sus síntomas y sanar.
Recibí mi Doctorado en Psicología de la Universidad de Pacific en Portland, OR y actualmente estoy trabajando hacia mi licenciatura. Mi entrenamiento fue enfocado en trabajar con adultos y la comunidad Latina, pero también he trabajado con niños y adolescentes. Aparte tengo bastante experiencia trabajando con comunidades históricamente marginalizadas incluyendo personas de diversas razas, etnicidades, LGBTQ+, de diferentes estados socioeconómicos, religiones, y con dolor crónico. Proveo terapia en ingles y/o español. Tengo mucha experiencia trabajando con problemas como el trauma, ansiedad, depresión, desórdenes alimenticios,
abuso de substancias, autoestima, auto-cuidado, estrés, inmigración, y la culpa y vergüenza.
Como inmigrante de generación 1.5 que creció en San Diego, CA, siento una fuerte conexión con mi identidad cultural, y tengo familiaridad con las dificultades de la inmigración, trauma racial/étnica, trauma generacional, y el fuerte valor de la familia.
Sam Osborne, BA, MDiv (Predoctoral Intern, PsyD In Progress)
Meaningful psychotherapy is grounded in a human relationship. My approach is one of depth and breadth, predicated on the living, dynamic reality of the psyche and the unconscious, and the relationship formed between us within the psychotherapeutic frame. My broadly psychodynamic approach incorporates both psychoanalytic and Jungian methods, as well as drawing from a deep well of other therapeutic modalities as needed. All my work is filtered through an anti-oppression, anti-racist, critical lens that acknowledges generations of damage committed by white, patriarchal, colonialist power structures and our collective need for liberation. For decades, I have been and remain an outspoken, unapologetic ally and advocate for Black lives, my trans brothers and sisters, and anyone who has ever felt marginalized. When I work with you, I commit to being with you all the way, no matter where the path may lead us.
Katherine Nay, LMHCA
Life can sometimes leave us feeling stuck, especially when we’re navigating significant changes, evolving identities, or adapting to new environments and relationships. These transitions can feel isolating and overwhelming, causing us to lose touch with who we are. But in these moments, there is also potential for healing and growth. I specialize in supporting those facing such transitions, including Third Culture Kids (TCKs), adult TCKs, military families, international adoptees, college students, immigrants, and individuals navigating cross-cultural experiences.
My approach is rooted in attachment-based counseling, where we explore how early relationships shape our sense of self and our connections with others. For children and teens, I work closely with families, helping them recognize intergenerational patterns and messages that influence their relationships, fostering lasting change for everyone involved.
Together, we will uncover new ways to understand your experiences, build resilience, and process difficult emotions at a pace that feels right for you. Whether you’re dealing with attachment wounds, unresolved grief, or ambiguous loss, I am here to guide you on this journey. When you feel ready to explore your story, I invite you to reach out.
Serena Konkin, LMHC
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Certain passages in life call one to walk hand in hand with uncertainty. I offer my clients support and guidance through periods of instability, change, and self-discovery. My approach is collaborative and process based, encouraging a sense of trust, safety, and self-agency. Integrating Jungian, psychodynamic, humanistic, and family systems techniques, I work with each individual to develop their inner emotional resources and natural creative resilience.
My approach begins with the formulation of the therapeutic alliance, allowing for the unique and individual perspective of each client to be the guiding focus. I see transformation and healing as a nonlinear, organic processes that requires cultivation, patience, curiosity, and occasionally, humor.
I use client centered techniques to lay a foundation of compassion and empathy, with depth approaches to support deep and lasting change. I also provide dreamwork, active imagination, and involvement of creative practices as therapeutic approaches for interested clients.
Abbie Spear, LICSW
Every life is a series of transitions, some of which can feel impossible to navigate. People
and families can often feel ‘stuck’ in their current struggles and unable to overcome the
challenges and changes they are experiencing.
Whether the tough moments are navigating issues in daily life or processing landmark
events such as pregnancy or parenthood, the need for support is valid and you don’t have
to push through alone. Therapy helps you develop the tools and knowledge needed to bring out your unique strengths and abilities. No matter what age or life stage you are in, healing is possible. I believe that every person has the potential to be successful and happy.
When working with adults, I emphasize an ecological and strengths-based approach using psychodynamic and evidence-based interventions. You are the expert of your own
experience and with the right tools, every person is capable of success. I most often see
people regarding perinatal mental health, parenting issues, ADHD, life transitions, and
anxiety/depression.
When working with children I strongly encourage parental involvement. Therapy doesn’t
exist in a vacuum and it is my belief that therapeutic success can only be achieved when
therapists and caregivers work together. I use a blend of cognitive-behavioral therapy, play therapy, and art therapy. I work with children age 3-11 and their families, specializing in ADHD, anxiety/depression, inter-family conflict, and support during family transitions.
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Sara Lindquist, LMHCA
A myriad of feelings may be present as you consider the start or continuation of your therapeutic journey, and I am glad you’re here. Therapy is a deeply personal experience and as a counselor, I seek to meet my clients right where they’re at. Maybe you’re looking to untangle your emotions, address past traumas, find new methods of coping, better understand yourself, or build self-esteem. Whatever your unique goals may be, it would be my honor to walk alongside you.
The rapport between a counselor and client is integral to best helping a client meet their goals. I strive to create a therapeutic environment that feels warm, supportive, and allows clients to feel empowered on their healing journey. It would be my privilege to support you as you seek to cultivate healing and better your life experience.
I work from a person-centered, trauma-informed, narrative therapy lens. I am looking forward to understanding your story and your experiences. All emotions and experiences will be met with understanding, open-mindedness, and empathy. It is my joy to get to know my clients and learn about the key players and experiences in their lives.
Dana Paik-Simerly, LMHC, CT
Director of Clinical Training
Here are some things to expect when we sit across from each other. I will want to have meaningful and honest conversations about the things in life that are hard for you to explore. Together, we will make a space to be able to give life to the words that are difficult to say out loud and help you grow in ways that feel useful to you. This can be a painful process and most often is worth it.
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Some concerns that I often see include: Coping with sudden or traumatic losses, complicated, prolonged, or disenfranchised grief, depression, anxiety, issues regarding identity or meaning, relationships, and shame and vulnerability.
My work tends to be rooted in Buddhist and existential concepts though I pull from a lot of different types of therapies. I am a certified Thanatologist (the study of death, dying, and bereavement) from the Association of Death Education and Counseling (ADEC).
David Ravi Sitlani, JD, LMHCA
Therapy can be a refuge where one can seek understanding, support and a place to be seen and heard. At its core, therapy is a relationship with a foundation in trust and openness where you can be given an opportunity to open up and share, develop insight and experience growth in a safe and open environment.
My integrative approach to therapy is focused on multicultural therapy, attachment theory, and existential therapy. The focus of sessions is centered on the client and their lived experience. I aim to be present, understanding and adaptive as a therapist so as to provide a space of openness and safety to explore your emotions, feelings and lived experience.
I have broad professional experience as I have worked in education, as a legal professional and now as a Therapist. I identify as a multicultural, able-bodied, cis-gendered man and am also a cancer survivor.
Melissa Filion, LMHCA
We often place pressure on ourselves to be okay, to power through, and to be strong. Yet there are moments in our lives when we need extra support. You may be navigating a major life transition, experiencing anxiety or overwhelm, or grappling with grief. You may be a new parent trying to make it through those mind-bending early postpartum months. You may be pregnant and preparing for the big unknowns to come, or you may be working through fertility challenges and feeling alone. Maybe you are farther along in your parenting journey, and seeking to reconnect with yourself or your children. You may be navigating loss and grief and feeling completely under water. These are vulnerable, tender times when we most need to feel fully seen and supported with compassion and care.
My approach to therapy is relational, attachment-based, and humanistic with a feminist lens. Together we will create a safe, warm, and supportive space where you can bring it all and release the pressure to be okay. You won’t have to hold it alone. I will witness and join you in your story, and in our work I will always honor your innate strength and inner wisdom.
I work with adult individuals from many different backgrounds and walks of life, and especially love working with people on issues of perinatal mental health, parenting, grief and loss, and major life transitions.
Kendra Thew, PhD
People seek testing for many reasons. Have others suggested you look into testing? Did a family member with similar strengths and challenges recently receive a diagnosis and it has made you wonder about your own life? Maybe you’ve always felt just a little bit different and want to know more about yourself. Or maybe, in order to receive accommodations you’ve been told you must have formalized testing. The majority of settings we find ourselves in (work, school, social, romantic) expect us to think and behave in specific or “typical” ways. Life is hard enough without the weight of these challenges. Through testing, we will work together to find your answers.
A comprehensive evaluation can help clarify what is causing your challenges, any applicable diagnosis, and what you can do next. Whatever your test results may be, we will identify specific recommendations that can help you live the life that you want with clarity. With a strengths focused approach, we can find ways to help you navigate the system instead of being forced to fit in.
Let’s collaborate to make your testing experience helpful, informative, fun, and therapeutic. While I aim to have your test results answer any questions you have, my ultimate goal is for the assessment experience to help you make positive changes in your life. We can help you have that “a ha that’s why I do that thing” moment. You are considering taking a big step in your life, I look forward to the chance to take that step with you.
Our Interns
Megan Bruckner, BA
(MA in Progress)
Therapy is one tool you can use to give yourself care, to navigate a major life change, or to release a weight you may be carrying. My role is to create a space to explore your unique therapeutic goals, and I am honored to join others as they move through life’s joys and difficulties. My style of counseling is warm, strengths-based, and collaborative. I am most passionate about supporting my clients’ innate wisdom in determining what is best for their lives.
I integrate therapeutic approaches from attachment-based, somatic, ecotherapy, and humanistic perspectives. Informed by neuroscience, I believe in the importance of allying with our bodies in the healing process and center the mind-body connection in therapy. To me, therapy is a space that can allow people to experience deep acceptance, to grow in both self-awareness and self-compassion.
My approach is a good fit for adults 18+ experiencing stress, anxiety, or depression, those who may be feeling stuck, or those amid a life transition. I especially love working with people on issues of past and present relationships, women’s health, work concerns, and exploring self-care. I am LGBTQIA+-celebratory and affirm nonmonogamy and diversity in relationship expression.
Amanda Dupre, BA
(MA in Progress)
Therapy provides a sounding board for people to work through some of the most difficult parts of their experience. I aim to provide a nonjudgmental and compassionate space for you to explore your past, your relationships, your hopes for the future, and anything else that is affecting your mental health. Getting started with therapy can feel daunting, and I hope to walk alongside you as you start the journey to a deeper understanding of yourself.
I take a collaborative approach, prioritizing the goals that bring you to therapy. You are the expert in your life and full of unique strengths that can be leveraged in your struggles. Although we may brainstorm options for change together, you are ultimately the one responsible for choosing the changes you want in your life. In my approach to therapy, rather than adhering to one specific school of thought, I utilize an integrative approach that carefully and thoughtfully selects from several useful models such as attachment theory, solutions focused, and narrative therapy all infused with a feminist lens. We will work together to uncover your values and find ways to help you live in alignment with those values.
Our Office Manager
Alicia Underwood
Alicia is the Clinic Coordinator for Cascades Wellness Center. Her excellent customer service skills and interest in holistic wellbeing make her a wonderful addition to our practice. She lives in sunny California and enjoys hiking, longboarding, and hanging out with her two Sphynx cats.