Isaac Higgins, MA (he/him)

Associate Social Worker

In my work I commonly see people who are trauma survivors, neurodiverse and gender-diverse folks. I am aligned with folks self-advocacy journeys. I value working collaboratively with my clients to co-create treatment and explore narratives imposed on them by greater culture. 

My work is informed by decolonial and liberation-focused models. I acknowledge that structural oppression has impacts on thoughts and behaviors. Together we can explore how this has impacted your life, safety and possibly how you view yourself. 

I am  bilingual in English and Spanish. Prior to my graduate training  I worked as a peer advocate for survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence and taught consent in schools.

In our work together we often discuss your values and worldviews. Often this means that we discuss your family, culture,  religious or spiritual beliefs, culturally-specific ways of understanding your body, and recovery goals.

In addition to professional training, my  practice is informed by my lived experiences with trauma, participation in queer and neurodivergent communities. I work to reckon with my white privilege, and ongoing appreciation for not knowing.

I am supervised by K Wortman, PhD.

Education and Training

Master of Social Work  Portland State University

Erica Leif, MA (they/them)

Psychological Associate

I provide both therapy and assessment services. In my role as a psychometrist, I provide test administration and scoring for neuropsychological assessments. In therapy, I provide therapy using evidence-based treatments, and at Next Steps, I am training to integrate cognitive rehabilitation strategies into my work. My style is empathetic and direct; I am passionate about working collaboratively with patients to answer questions about how they think. I enjoy working with and learning from patients from a variety of different backgrounds. One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is helping patients solve the puzzle that is their lives.

I am working toward my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and it is my goal to become a clinical neuropsychologist. My prior work experience includes providing assessment at San Francisco VA, a substance use residential program, a comprehensive outpatient program specializing in serious mental illness, and a PTSD speciality clinic. As a transgender and neurodivergent clinician, I have seen the value of bringing my identity into the room when delivering culturally-informed assessment services. Leveraging my strengths as a neurodivergent clinician means that I seamlessly integrate multiple aspects of my patient’s presentation and strive to affirm their experiences.

I am supervised by K Wortman, PhD.

Education and Training

Master of Arts, Clinical Psychology, California of School of Professional Psychology (APA-accredited)

Chris Shang (they/them)

Registered Psychological Testing Technician and Administrative Support

Chris Shang is a Registered Psychological Testing Technician. They joined NSNP after completing completing their bachelor’s degree at California State University, East Bay. Under the supervision of Dr. Wortman, Chris administers and scores standardized assessments, maintains test materials, and supports accurate clinical documentation. They also assist with clinic operations, including phone coverage, client onboarding, and coordination with administrative and billing teams. Chris is a valued member of the Next Steps Neuropsychology team and contributes to efficient, high-quality assessment services.

Jashneel Singh, PsyD (he/they)

Postdoctoral Graduate Clinician (Psychological Associate #94028053)

I am a queer Indo-Fijian American. I was born and raised in the Bay Area, my lived experience informs my therapeutic approach and psychological lens. I provide evidence based therapeutic services in English and Fijian Hindi. I take a person centered approach to therapy and meet patients where they are at. Drawing from evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Additionally, I reference attachment-based/multicultural frameworks and help affirm patients, build resilience, and effect meaningful change.

I have had experience working in crisis centers, inpatient hospitals, community mental health clinics, and private practice since 2019. I work with individuals across the lifespan facing challenges with anxiety, depression, neurodiversity(ADHD, ASD, IDD), bipolar disorder, psychosis/schizophrenia, and life transitions.

I am supervised by K Wortman, PhD.

Education and Training

• Psychological Internship – Institute of Multicultural Counseling and Education Services, Los Angeles (APA-accredited)
• Doctor of Psychology, Clinical Psychology – Alliant International University, San Diego (APA-accredited)
• Masters of Arts, Clinical Psychology – Alliant International University, San Diego (APA-accredited)
• Bachelors of Arts, Anthropology – University of California, Irvine

K Wortman, PhD (they/them)

Clinical Neuropsychologist

I am a queer, agender clinical neuropsychologist. I provide neuropsychological assessments, gender health evaluations, and psychotherapy for adults. I help clients find answers to questions about their thinking skills. During feedback, I describe current cognitive functioning and provide treatment recommendations to support recovery following injury. I also provide psychotherapy for people with brain injuries or medical complications who would benefit from my knowledge of brain-behavior relationships.

I take a collaborative approach to my work. While I have expertise in neuropsychology, I recognize that I have not experienced my clients’ lives. My goal is to explain neuropsychological concepts in a way that aligns with each person’s unique circumstances. My style is empathetic and supportive; I meet each individual where they are and offer recommendations that consider their home life, cultural background, and personal abilities. I am here to support clients as they navigate life transitions.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is hearing about my clients’ lives—their patience, resilience, and the profound love they have for their family and friends. Outside of work, I recharge by spending time in nature and reading memoirs. I love learning about people’s stories in their own words.

Education and Training

• Polytrauma/Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Research Fellowship VA Palo Alto Healthcare System, Stanford School of Medicine
• Psychology Internship VA Sierra Nevada Health Care System (APA-accredited)
• Doctor of Philosophy, Clinical Psychology  California of School of Professional Psychology (APA-accredited)      

Professional Affiliations

• American Academy of Clinical Neuropsychology
• American Psychological Association
  • Society for Clinical Neuropsychology – Division 40
  • Society for the Psychology of Sexual Orientation and Gender Diversity
• Northern California Neuropsychology Forum
• Queer Neuropsychological Society

Virtual Medical Assistant

Amanda, our Virtual Medical Assistant (VMA) contracted through Silver Leaf Practice Management Solutions. She often serves as the first point of contact for new and returning clients. Amanda responds to inquiries, manages the clinic waitlist, and schedules initial appointments for both therapy and neuropsychological assessments. She also works closely with our billing team to verify insurance benefits and support a smooth, informed start to services.

Billing Department

Our billing services are provided through Sypore, a trusted partner specializing in managing the complex billing codes associated with neuropsychological services. The billing team ensures that clients are approved for services prior to their appointments and is also available to assist individuals who wish to use out-of-network benefits. Their expertise helps streamline the insurance process, reduce delays, and provide clarity on coverage.

We take the security of our clients’ information very seriously. All communication related to billing or patient care is conducted using HIPAA-secure technology to protect privacy and confidentiality at every step.

HR Support

We partner with Strategic HR Advisory to support the development of our HR systems and hiring practices. With their guidance, we’ve built a strong HR foundation and continue to rely on their expertise for day-to-day HR questions and recruitment support. They play a key role in helping us identify candidates who align with our values and culture, ensuring that as our team grows, we stay grounded in the mission and principles that define our work.