Meet our Multidisciplinary Team
More than 50 people work together under one roof at Cognitive FX in Provo, Utah, including 2 physicians, 4 PhDs, 2 nurse practitioners, 2 registered nurses and 20+ licensed therapists. Scans, treatment planning and therapy all happen in one clinic.
Partners and Practitioners
Co-Founder, Clinical Neuropsychologist, Clinical Director
Dr. Alina K. Fong, PhD
Clinical neuropsychologist · PhD internship, VA Salt Lake City
Dr. Alina K. Fong, PhD
Co-Founder, Clinical Neuropsychologist, Clinical Director
To honor her father, who was a Vietnam War veteran, Dr. Alina K. Fong chose to work at the Veteran’s Affairs Salt Lake City Healthcare System for her PhD internship. At Veteran’s Affairs, Dr. Fong worked extensively with Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom veterans.
Read more about Dr. Alina K. Fong, PhDCo-Founder, Neuroscientist
Dr. Mark D. Allen, PhD
PhD, Johns Hopkins · Postdoctoral training, University of Washington
Dr. Mark D. Allen, PhD
Co-Founder, Neuroscientist
Mark D. Allen earned a PhD in Cognitive Science at Johns Hopkins University with post-doctoral training in Cognitive Neuroscience and Functional Neuroimaging at the University of Washington. As a cofounder, Dr. Allen developed the scientific foundation and technological innovations that make treatment at Cognitive FX unique and exceptional. Dr. Allen is a pioneer in the development of fMRI for use in clinical settings.
Read more about Dr. Mark D. Allen, PhDDirector of Neurosurgery
Dr. Lynn M. Gaufin, MD
MD, Cornell · Residency, UCLA · Army surgeon
Dr. Lynn M. Gaufin, MD
Director of Neurosurgery
Dr. Lynn Gaufin graduated from the University of Utah and then attended medical school at Cornell University in New York City. After medical school, he joined the Army and served as a military surgeon before finishing his neurological residency at the University of California, Los Angeles.
Read more about Dr. Lynn M. Gaufin, MDDiagnostic Radiologist
Dr. Caleb Epps, MD
Diagnostic radiologist · CFX imaging researcher since 2016
Dr. Caleb Epps, MD
Diagnostic Radiologist
Dr. Caleb Epps serves as a Diagnostic Radiologist for Cognitive FX. He joined the CFX team in 2016 first as a Radiology Research Associate where his research included the diagnostic uses of fNCI and Notus Neurocogs in the assessment of cognitive function in Major Neurocognitive Disorder, development of a theoretical model of neurovascular coupling in PCS pathophysiology, and the discovery of imaging biomarkers in PCS....
Read more about Dr. Caleb Epps, MDClinical Psychologist
Dr. Diane Spangler, PhD
PhD, University of Oregon · Postdoctoral fellowship, Stanford
Dr. Diane Spangler, PhD
Clinical Psychologist
Dr. Spangler is a Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years of experience working in both clinical and academic settings. She earned her doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology at the University of Oregon followed by a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in the Department of Psychiatry at the Stanford University School of Medicine.
Read more about Dr. Diane Spangler, PhDClinical Psychologist
Dr. Chris Anderson, PhD
PhD, clinical psychology
Dr. Chris Anderson, PhD
Clinical Psychologist
Dr. Chris Anderson has dedicated his career to helping people understand the brain—and how that understanding can improve their lives. Growing up in Colorado, Alaska, and Utah fostered his appreciation for both adventure and lifelong learning, while an early fascination with human behavior inspired him to pursue a career in clinical psychology focused on helping people better understand their minds, their health, and their potential for recovery.
Read more about Dr. Chris Anderson, PhDNurse Practitioner
Dr. Lynn M. McMillan, DNP, FNP-C
Doctor of Nursing Practice · 25+ years in clinical care
Dr. Lynn M. McMillan, DNP, FNP-C
Nurse Practitioner
Lynn M. McMillan, DNP, FNP-C, is a Doctor of Nursing Practice and board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with more than 25 years of clinical experience caring for medically complex patients.
Read more about Dr. Lynn M. McMillan, DNP, FNP-CNurse Practitioner
Jessica Anderson, PMHNP-BC, MSN
MSN, Duke · Board-certified psychiatric NP
Jessica Anderson, PMHNP-BC, MSN
Nurse Practitioner
Jessica is a dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner committed to compassionate, holistic, and evidence-based care. She earned a Master of Science in Nursing from Duke University, and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Brigham Young University. Jessica was an RN for 15 years before becoming a nurse practitioner providing comprehensive treatment for adolescents and adults in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
Read more about Jessica Anderson, PMHNP-BC, MSNDirector of Patient Care
Annie Morgan, RN
Registered nurse · 13 years in medicine
Annie Morgan, RN
Director of Patient Care
Annie has 13 years of experience in the medical field. As the registered nurse at Cognitive FX, Annie addresses patients' medical needs and concerns during their time in the clinic.
Read more about Annie Morgan, RNNurse
Alise McCray, RN
RN, Utah Valley University · 7 hospitals nationwide
Alise McCray, RN
Nurse
Alise received her nursing degree from Utah Valley University in 2018 and spent much of her career as a travel nurse working alongside her husband. She has worked in acute and progressive care units in seven different hospitals across the country, everywhere from California to Indiana to Washington D.C. She has cared for patients in the immediate aftermath of mild to severe brain injury as well as those going through the depths of COVID.
Read more about Alise McCray, RNOccupational Therapists
NeuroOccupational Therapist
Jory Liddiard, MOTR/L
MOT, Pacific University · 8.5 years in neuro rehab
Jory Liddiard, MOTR/L
NeuroOccupational Therapist
Jory received his master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from Pacific University in Oregon. He has 8.5 years of experience in neuro outpatient and inpatient rehab. He is a certified Lymphedema therapist, Graston Technique massage, LSVT Big and Loud for Parkinson’s, Bioness, and AMPS. He has evaluated and treated patients with a broad range of neurological impairments. He also specializes in pediatrics working with children with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and developmental delays with an emphasis in sensory integration.
Read more about Jory Liddiard, MOTR/LNeuroOccupational Therapist
Katie Robertson, MOTR/L
MOT, University of Utah · 19 years in practice
Katie Robertson, MOTR/L
NeuroOccupational Therapist
Katie received her master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of Utah and has been practicing for the last 19 years. She has 12 years of experience in acute rehab, home health care, lymphedema, as well as neuro-rehabilitation. She has evaluated and treated patients with neurological impairments including TBI, concussions, spinal cord injury, ALS, MS, brain tumor, stroke, dementia, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, anoxic brain injuries, and subarachnoid hemorrhage.
Read more about Katie Robertson, MOTR/LNeuroOccupational Therapist
Melanie Lockhart Finlinson, MOTR/L
MOT, Idaho State University
Melanie Lockhart Finlinson, MOTR/L
NeuroOccupational Therapist
Melanie Finlinson received her Bachelor’s in Exercise Science from Brigham Young University and went on to receive her Master’s in Occupational Therapy from Idaho State University. She first came to Cognitive FX for a fieldwork rotation and loved the experience so much she returned to join the team. With a background as a collegiate gymnast, Melanie brings a strong foundation in movement, discipline, and whole-body wellness. She is passionate about helping individuals reclaim their independence, rebuild their confidence, and return to the activities they love.
Read more about Melanie Lockhart Finlinson, MOTR/LNeuroOccupational Therapist
Bailey Wilson, MOTR/L
MOT, University of Utah
Bailey Wilson, MOTR/L
NeuroOccupational Therapist
Bailey received her Master's degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of Utah. She has clinical experience working in pediatric outpatient settings, supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), as well as children with a variety of developmental, sensory, and functional needs.
Read more about Bailey Wilson, MOTR/LCognitive Therapists
NeuroCognitive Therapist
April Crystal, MS, CCC-SLP
MS, BYU · Licensed speech-language pathologist
April Crystal, MS, CCC-SLP
NeuroCognitive Therapist
April is a Licensed Speech-Language Pathologist, receiving her Bachelor's Degree in Communication Disorders from the University of Utah and her Master's Degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Brigham Young University. She has had the opportunity to work with patients in a variety of settings and plays a critical role in helping patients improve their cognitive skills.
Read more about April Crystal, MS, CCC-SLPNeuroCognitive Therapist
Emily Harrison, MS, CCC-SLP
MS, University of Utah · 15 years as an SLP
Emily Harrison, MS, CCC-SLP
NeuroCognitive Therapist
Emily attended BYU for her bachelor’s degree and the University of Utah for her master’s degree. Her field of study is in Speech-Language Pathology. Emily has worked as a speech pathologist for 15 years.
Read more about Emily Harrison, MS, CCC-SLPNeuroCognitive Therapist
Michelle Huish, MS, CCC-SLP
MS, University of Utah · Neurologic rehab experience
Michelle Huish, MS, CCC-SLP
NeuroCognitive Therapist
Michelle is a Licensed Speech-Language Pathologist, receiving both her Bachelor's Degree in Communication Disorders and her Master's Degree in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Utah. She has had the opportunity to work with patients in a variety of settings, including Neurologic Rehabilitation.
Read more about Michelle Huish, MS, CCC-SLPNeuroCognitive Therapist
Melanie Francis, MS, CCC-SLP
MS, BYU · Speech-language pathologist since 2006
Melanie Francis, MS, CCC-SLP
NeuroCognitive Therapist
Melanie has been working as a speech language pathologist since 2006. She graduated with a Masters of Science from Brigham Young University. She has worked in a variety of settings and joined the NeuroCognitive therapists at Cognitive FX in January 2021.
Read more about Melanie Francis, MS, CCC-SLPNeuroCognitive Therapist
Natalie Wright, MS, CCC-SLP
MS, BYU · Licensed SLP since 2003
Natalie Wright, MS, CCC-SLP
NeuroCognitive Therapist
Natalie has been a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist since 2003. She received her bachelor degree at Utah State University and her masters at BYU. She has worked in a variety of settings with much of her experience being in neurological rehab. Natalie is passionate about helping her fellow humans improve their quality of life and has thoroughly enjoyed joining this talented team at Cognitive FX.
Read more about Natalie Wright, MS, CCC-SLPNeuroMuscular Therapists
NeuroMuscular Physical Therapist
Toshi Sugiyama, DPT
Doctor of Physical Therapy, Idaho State University
Toshi Sugiyama, DPT
NeuroMuscular Physical Therapist
Toshi graduated from Brigham Young University Idaho with a degree in exercise science in 2016. He then graduated from Idaho State University with his Doctorate in Physical Therapy in 2019. While in school he did rotations in vestibular therapy, outpatient orthopedic, pediatric and acute care settings.
Read more about Toshi Sugiyama, DPTNeuroIntegration Specialist
Andy Clower
Z-Health Performance Master Trainer
Andy Clower
NeuroIntegration Specialist
Andy is a Z-Health Performance Master Trainer. He spent the first years of his career working in Orthopedics, assisting in surgery and clinical duties, as well as taking care of Athletic Training duties for a local hospital. He also worked as Head Athletic Trainer and Director of Human Performance for a specialty physical therapy clinic.
Read more about Andy ClowerNeuroMuscular Therapist
Jake Carluccio, LMT, SCC
Licensed massage therapist · Strength and conditioning certified
Jake Carluccio, LMT, SCC
NeuroMuscular Therapist
With a passion for sports and maximum performance, Jake has taken his license for Massage Therapy (LMT) to new levels. Having studied Health Science at Salt Lake Community College, he has also earned certificates in nutrition as well as strength and conditioning. These he has successfully combined with his extensive real-world experience working with patients in many modalities including a Physical Therapy and a Sports Medicine clinic.
Read more about Jake Carluccio, LMT, SCCNeuroMuscular Therapist
Sotero Perigo, MS, ATC
MS, athletic training, University of Idaho
Sotero Perigo, MS, ATC
NeuroMuscular Therapist
Sotero graduated from Utah State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Human Movement Science in 2015. He then graduated from the University of Idaho with his Master of Science degree in Athletic Training in 2018.
Read more about Sotero Perigo, MS, ATCNeuroMuscular Therapy Assistant
Sara Madsen, CFT
Certified fitness trainer, 15 years
Sara Madsen, CFT
NeuroMuscular Therapy Assistant
Sara has been a certified fitness trainer for 15 years through the American Council of Exercise. She worked for 5 years at the University of Chicago Hospital in their Executive Health Clinic as a patient advocate and as their exercise consultant.
Read more about Sara Madsen, CFTNeuroMuscular Therapist
Braquel Gardiner, PTA
Physical therapist assistant, Provo College
Braquel Gardiner, PTA
NeuroMuscular Therapist
Braquel is passionate about all things sports and movement. Since earning a Physical Therapist Assistant degree from Provo College in 2022, Braquel has worked in both outpatient and inpatient physical therapy offices, specializing in orthopedic sports medicine. Having worked with a variety of clientele, she is excited to help patients recover and get back to the things they love most.
Read more about Braquel Gardiner, PTANeuroMuscular Therapist
Ethan Larsen, ATC
Certified Brain Injury Specialist · Athletic trainer, BYU
Ethan Larsen, ATC
NeuroMuscular Therapist
Ethan graduated from Brigham Young University with his Bachelor of Science degree in Athletic Training in 2021 and became a Certified Brain Injury Specialist in 2023 from the Brain Injury Alliance of America. He has worked with athletes and individuals from a wide variety of backgrounds and has experience working with both acute and long-term brain injury patients.
Read more about Ethan Larsen, ATCMRI Technicians
MRI Technician
Brian Baker
MRI technologist, 10+ years
Brian Baker
MRI Technician
Brian is delighted to work with the CFX team and patients. He does structural and functional MRI exams. Having worked as a MRI tech more than a decade, he understands how valuable a good exam can be to a patient's progress. He also understands that many patients are nervous about the exam and so strives to make the experience more gentle and pleasant for them.
Read more about Brian BakerMRI Technician
Cameron Willardson
ARRT-accredited · 17 years in MRI
Cameron Willardson
MRI Technician
With 18 years of experience in medical imaging—17 of which have been specialized in MRI—Cameron has worked in diverse healthcare settings, including Cognitive FX, Utah Valley Hospital (a Level II Trauma Center), and American Fork Hospital. He is accredited by the ARRT and actively involved with both the ARRT and ASRT. Cameron holds a bachelor’s degree in Radiologic Sciences from Weber State University, specializing in MRI and CT, and in December 2024, he completed a Master’s of Business degree in Healthcare Management from Colorado Technical University.
Read more about Cameron WillardsonMRI Technician
Stacey Willardson
fNCI scan specialist · 6+ years at CFX
Stacey Willardson
MRI Technician
Stacey has worked at Cognitive FX for over six years. She specializes in fNCI scans and enjoys working with new patients each week.
Read more about Stacey WillardsonPatient Care Technicians
Patient Care Technician
Elizabeth Avery
BS, exercise science, Utah Valley University
Elizabeth Avery
Patient Care Technician
Liz graduated from Utah Valley University with her Bachelors in exercise science in May of 2024. She enjoys getting to know the patients and working at CFX!
Read more about Elizabeth AveryPatient Care Technician
Ian Wilson
Patient Care Technician
Brinley Burke
Neuroscience, BYU
Brinley Burke
Patient Care Technician
Brinley brings a neuroscience background from Brigham Young University. She has worked at Cognitive FX since the summer of 2024 as a PCC and NIT assistant and is very grateful to be on a team with such talented professionals.
Read more about Brinley BurkePatient Care Technician
Evan Bachar
Pre-med neuroscience, BYU
Evan Bachar
Patient Care Technician
Evan brings a neuroscience background from BYU. Evan went through treatment at Cognitive FX and finds it extremely rewarding to help others dealing with the life-altering effects of PCS and TBIs. He hopes to build a career in the research and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
Read more about Evan BacharPatient Care Technician
Makinley Stephensen
Certified nursing assistant, 4+ years in memory care
Makinley Stephensen
Patient Care Technician
Makinley has a background as a certified nursing assistant, having spent over 4 years working in an assisted living facility/memory care unit. She has a strong passion for helping others and providing compassionate and personalized care to everyone. She strives to make each patient's experience unique and meaningful.
Read more about Makinley StephensenPatient Care Technician
Dylan Law
Licensed EMT · Exercise and wellness, BYU
Dylan Law
Patient Care Technician
Dylan brings a background in exercise and wellness from BYU and in emergency medicine as a licensed emergency medical technician. Dylan is passionate about giving every patient who comes through the clinic the best care, and about learning cognitive therapy techniques at Cognitive FX.
Read more about Dylan LawPatient Care Technician
Allison Olsen
Bachelor's in psychology, Utah Valley University
Allison Olsen
Patient Care Technician
Allison Olsen holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Utah Valley University. She is committed to meeting individuals with empathy and values the opportunity to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and experiences.
Read more about Allison OlsenPatient Care Technician
Paisley Payne
TMS technician experience · Psychology, Utah Valley University
Paisley Payne
Patient Care Technician
Paisley brings a background in psychology and cognitive neuroscience from Utah Valley University. She has worked as a TMS technician and mental health assistant and loves to work one on one with people. She is thrilled to be a part of the Cognitive FX team and to grow with its new opportunities.
Read more about Paisley PaynePatient Care Technician
Matthew Teuscher
BS, neuroscience, BYU
Matthew Teuscher
Patient Care Technician
Matthew earned a bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience from Brigham Young University. He is dedicated to helping patients understand their brain and innovating with new therapies and exercises to give them the best possible care.
Read more about Matthew TeuscherPatient Care Technician
Nate Smith
Bachelor's in family science, Utah Valley University
Nate Smith
Patient Care Technician
Nate received a Bachelors Degree in Family Science with minors in Psychology and Business Management from UVU. He uses those skills to treat individuals with both empathy and respect regardless of their background or experiences. Originally from Gilbert AZ, he has lived in Utah since late 2020. Outside of work, Nate enjoys machine embroidery, camping, hiking, and anything else in the sun.
Read more about Nate SmithPatient Care Technician
Katie Glenn
Psychology, BYU
Katie Glenn
Patient Care Technician
Katie Glenn brings a background in psychology, with a minor in Spanish, from Brigham Young University. She has a passion for connecting with others and values empathy, compassion, and taking the time to truly understand each person and their unique experiences.
Read more about Katie GlennManagement Team
General Manager
Barbara Porter
General manager since 2016
Barbara Porter
General Manager
As the General Manager, Barbara leads and empowers our patients and diverse team of specialists on the CFX team. Her teammates would add that she's one of the kindest people leaders they've had the pleasure to work with. Since 2016 joining Cognitive FX, her leadership has helped the clinic grow from serving just 130 concussion victims a year to now over 700 a year—and will continue to increase in years to come.
Read more about Barbara PorterProject Manager
Jordan Davis
Neuroscience degree, BYU
Jordan Davis
Project Manager
Jordan Davis graduated from Brigham Young University with her degree in Neuroscience in June of 2018. Jordan works as a Project Manager to improve treatment for patients and improve how the clinic operates.
Read more about Jordan DavisExperience Manager
Taylie Pectol
Exercise and wellness degree, BYU
Taylie Pectol
Experience Manager
Taylie graduated from Brigham Young University with a degree in Exercise and Wellness, a minor in Business, and a Ballard Scholar of Social Impact certificate. As Experience Manager at Cognitive FX, she works across clinical operations, patient experience, and staff engagement to strengthen clinic processes, support the team, and continually improve the care experience.
Read more about Taylie PectolClinical Operations Manager
Racquel Stepaniak, ATC
MS, sports medicine, University of Utah
Racquel Stepaniak, ATC
Clinical Operations Manager
Racquel is a Certified Athletic Trainer. She graduated from Brigham Young University in 2017 with a bachelor’s degree in Athletic Training. She then received a Master of Science degree in Sports Medicine from the University of Utah in 2019.
Read more about Racquel Stepaniak, ATCOffice Staff
Operations Supervisor
Kayla Merrick
At CFX since 2021
Kayla Merrick
Operations Supervisor
Kayla Merrick joined the team in 2021, and has been greatly enjoying her time working the front desk. She graduated magna cum laude from Brigham Young University in December 2019, with a Bachelors Degree in English, and dual minors in Creative Writing and Japanese. She has lived in Utah all her life, aside from two years she spent in Japan, and speaks fluent conversational Japanese.
Read more about Kayla MerrickLogistics Specialist
Jessica Ricks
Biology degree, Utah Valley University
Jessica Ricks
Logistics Specialist
Jessica Ricks went through EPIC Treatment in 2018 and has been working for Cognitive FX since the beginning of 2020. She has an Associates Degree in Science and a Bachelors Degree in Biology from Utah Valley University. Jessica is originally from Springfield, Oregon and has lived in Utah since 2016.
Read more about Jessica RicksOffice Administrator
Megan Wilhelm
Megan Wilhelm
Office Administrator
Megan recently joined the team in October 2024, and has loved interacting with the patients and being a part of the incredible work Cognitive FX is doing. Originally from Maryland, she moved to Utah from Arizona in May 2024, to pursue education in Radiologic Technology. She has a background in Education and Creative Entrepreneurship.
Read more about Megan WilhelmOffice Administrator
Amanda Pasti
Speaks Portuguese, English and Spanish
Amanda Pasti
Office Administrator
Amanda Pasti, originally from Brazil, joined the Cognitive FX team in October 2024 deeply motivated by the opportunity to be part of a team that strives to make the lives of others better. As an Administrative Coordinator, Amanda ensures the smooth processing of administrative documents, effective communication with patients, and managing records requests. In addition to her professional expertise, Amanda holds an Associate degree in Business and Leadership Skills. She is also a trained classical pianist, having performed in music concerts, choirs, and special education projects in Brazil and Europe. Amanda is fluent in Portuguese, English, and Spanish.
Read more about Amanda PastiOffice Administrator
Kelli Thompson
Speaks Spanish, German and ASL
Kelli Thompson
Office Administrator
Kelli recently joined our team in January 2025. She loves getting to know the clients and helping them feel more comfortable during the week. After 10 years of customer service, Kelli is confident that she can help you with any questions. With a background in animal science, her Achilles' heel is a cute dog. Though she claims Maryland as her home, she has lived and travelled all around the world. Kelli has a few languages under her belt such as Spanish, German, and American Sign Language. If she's not in the office, she's probably in the mountains or watching baseball.
Read more about Kelli ThompsonLogistics Specialist
Abby Lamb
Abby Lamb
Logistics Specialist
Abby has a strong background in customer service and office management and loves making every patient feel welcomed and cared for at Cognitive FX. Originally from Washington, she recently made the move to Utah and has enjoyed settling in and meeting so many wonderful patients and teammates.
Read more about Abby LambOffice Administrator
Meghan Boone
Meghan Boone
Office Administrator
Meghan (Meg) just recently joined the team in July of 2026 and is loving being in the healthcare field assisting patients with the exceptional care and treatments that CFX uniquely offers!
Read more about Meghan Boone