Meet our Team and Service Partners

Samantha (Sam) Chiu (she/they)

Associate Therapist and Therapy Intake Coordinator

I am a queer and neurodivergent second-generation Taiwanese American therapist. In my work with clients I integrate evidence-based approaches with each client’s lived experience. I speak both English and Mandarin Chinese, with English as my dominant language.

I work from a strengths-based, client-centered framework. Through our collaborative partnerships I support clients as they make meaningful change in their lives. My clinical experience includes working with LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent communities, as well as providing crisis intervention and risk management within behavioral health settings.

Registered Associate Marriage Family Therapist AMFT #134958. I am supervised by K Wortman, PhD.

Arebeth Pease (she/they)

Associate Therapist

I’m an associate therapist who is passionate about helping teens, adults, and families feel more connected to themselves and each other. I work from a trauma-informed, relational perspective. I enjoy working with neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ people navigating the complexity of humanness. My style is warm, collaborative, and grounded in the belief that healing happens through safety, curiosity, and authentic connection in relationships.

I value seeing folks as a whole-person. I strive to create a space where clients can show up fully as themselves. It is truly an honor to see folks as they grow and see themselves in new ways. Outside the therapy room, I’m passionate about holistic healing through food, the arts, energy work, and the restorative power of the human-animal bond.

Registered Associate Marriage Family Therapist AMFT #160439. I am supervised by K Wortman, PhD.

Education and Training

Master of Arts, Counseling Psychology, California Institute of Integral Studies

Chris Shang (they/them)

Psychometrist 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.

K Wortman, PhD (they/them)

Clinical Neuropsychologist

I am a queer, agender clinical neuropsychologist dedicated to providing neuroaffirming and gender-affirming care. I specialize in neuropsychological assessment, gender health evaluations, and psychotherapy for adults, with a focus on supporting neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ clients. 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 am steadily becoming more versed in basketball. Go Valkyries!

Licensed Psychologist #31275

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

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.