Cassidy Miller is a licensed marriage and family therapist with both undergraduate and graduate degrees in psychology. Having been introduced to family systems theory in her undergraduate work, Cassidy sought a graduate level program with a reputation for expertise in that area. The University of San Francisco awarded her M.A. in counseling psychology (2012).

Cassidy excels in her abilities to communicate and establish shared understanding among multiple members of complex relationship dynamics and among teams of collaborating colleagues. She is known to be illustrative, relatable, direct, and kind.  Her motivation to do this work is rooted in knowing that growth can happen throughout our entire lifespan.  Cassidy believes, that regardless of how we may have been socialized to think about mental health, everyone struggles and in relation to that hardship there is something more and better with access to the right information and support. In her role as a Clere Consultant Cassidy gets to utilize an eclectic skill set to encourage individuals and families in developing a depth of understanding for themselves, their circumstances, and their choices.

Cassidy engages people with a baseline belief that no matter how destructive a dynamic or behavior has become, when viewed within the full and fair context, there are likely some knowable reasons for its existence. Learning about these specific reasons— distinct from justifications or excuses— is an important part of generating greater self-awareness and lasting change. It is important to Cassidy that she approach families with a clear intention to lead by example with the concept of “holding both”. This approach makes room for honest and at times painful self-evaluation while reinforcing inherent worth; thorough inventory of the circumstance and the part one plays in it, while acknowledging the brave and different actions that are being taken to move forward. Shame is not only not the goal it is counterproductive for healing any relationship with oneself or anyone else.

Cassidy applies her training in systems and strategic thinking to every part of the process. Through the years Cassidy has experienced that in many instances nuanced observation and assessment must come from outside of the system if it is to be of any substantive use moving forward. There comes a point when living—surviving—in dysfunction, when one’s ability to discern what is real and true becomes less vivid, sometimes to the extent of being no longer being visible. Cassidy understands that this level of process can feel overwhelming. “Some of this process is bound to be uncomfortable—but from a place of honesty so much becomes possible that otherwise remains not possible at all.”

Known for her curious and inquisitive nature  Cassidy’s style of observation strives to see from the many perspectives in a family. In her role as a consultant she believes that introducing the right question can be as valuable as providing new information. She says, “When people are suffering and really going through it, the right question in those situations is any question that sparks curiosity. It’s remarkable how powerful and important a little bit of curiosity can be when you have been feeling helpless and hopeless.” She also understands when there is hesitation to engage from this illuminating and confronting place. “Curiosity is fuel for learning how to see with more clarity what is real in contrast to the story you have been telling yourself to survive your circumstances. Curiosity allows for new information and accumulates that into knowledge—the more you understand the harder it becomes to live as if you don’t. Ultimately, sustained curiosity asks for your courage to feel, to be afraid, to do something different and become free.”

Cassidy’s B.A. was awarded by Prescott College (2010), where, along side the head of psychology department, she co-created the  Peer Support Network, a program that continues to this day. She later was selected to present her research and the program in a baccalaureate presentation where she represented the psychology department and her graduating class.  She has background in the mental health field, providing clinical services to children and families, in a wide range of settings. She worked as a therapist at San Francisco General Hospital in the adolescent psychiatric department. She has held parent support specialist position for residential program and for several years as a wilderness therapist. Throughout this time she has also facilitated several types of process and support groups and workshops. For the past 4 years she has been in private practice virtually and locally in Santa Monica, CA.