Board Member

Diocelina Chavez-Gonzalez – Board Chair

Diocelina Chavez-Gonzalez is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She is an Ethnic Minority Mental Health Specialist, with a focus on the Latino population. Serving in some capacity to help and support the underserved and help provide access to mental health support to all, has been a mission of hers since she began her journey of becoming a therapist. When she first began practicing mental health, about nine years ago, she began working in a Community Mental Health center where she served many low-income families, kids, teens and young adults. It was there where she discovered that the disparities were much greater than expected and tried her best to get involved in the community.

In her time there she provided Psychological education, workshops, presentations, facilitated consultation groups for Latino therapists and all other therapists in my office, provided supervision, helped translate forms and assessments into Spanish, connected with local community centers and supports, connected with the mayor in which the community mental center was located and helped bridge a connection with the community. Now that she practices mental health in private practice, she has been looking for ways to continue connecting with and supporting the community.

“Being part of Project Be Free feels like a natural next step. Project Be Free stands for a lot things that I believe in, which is its belief in providing access and support to those in need, as soon as possible and as effectively as possible, with providers and leadership that are diverse and equitable, and it’s commitment to build and connect with the community and the amazing resources that are already out there, while filling in any holes that may be missing.”

Clarissa Bulosan – Board Secretary

Clarissa Bulosan believes that when we uplift and empower each other, we can create a more thoughtful and caring world. Clarissa is a Senior Geographer at Expedia Group. Born and raised on the island of Kauai, Hawaii, Clarissa was exposed to community service at a young age through her parents.

While attending Central Washington University, Clarissa completed the Bonner Leader AmeriCorps Program where she served over 450 hours with the American Red Cross. In 2011, she graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Studies Geology.

Between 2015 and 2019, Clarissa served as a Seattle Puget Sound Steward with EarthCorps where she led volunteer groups in environmental restoration projects along the Duwamish River. In her spare time, Clarissa enjoys being outdoors, cooking, and caring for her garden.

Clarissa now resides in West Seattle with her husband and pets.

Carla Castillo – Board Member

Born and raised in Lima, Peru by a strong mother. I wanted to become a human right lawyer to help people who could not defend themselves. Life had a different idea and my family moved to the United States in search of stability and more opportunities for my future. I graduated from Butler University in Indiana with a bachelor’s degree in international studies, French and Spanish with the idea of pursuing law school yet it was not to be.

We moved to Florida and I started managing restaurants for almost 8 years. I moved to Seattle and started working and volunteering for an immigrant organization and found I loved that work. As a manager I helped my team when they had difficulties finding resources to continue studying or guiding them through difficult personal situations. After a few years I started working for JPMorgan Chase as a Branch manager. And through the firm’s volunteer opportunities I found Project Be Free. I am currently pursuing an MBA from Seattle University. I love spending time outdoors with my son, Marinera dance class and helping in my family’s small business, Castillo Bakery.

Erika Roldan Guzman – Board Member

Erika Roldan Guzman is the Director at the 1418 Youth Reengagement Program located at Seattle Central College. In her current role she focuses on serving underrepresented youth who face multiple life barriers trying to continue with their education. She also has served a diverse population throughout her 6 years at the college including adult ESL, ABE, GED students from different backgrounds, immigrants, refugees, and other groups who don’t always have the resources to succeed.

Erika is passionate about helping others, committed to education, equity, and always goes out of her way to make sure her clients get the support needed. Erika was born and raised in Veracruz, Mexico and moved to Seattle over 13 years ago. Erica speaks Spanish, is family-oriented, enjoys learning from others’ experiences, and has a passion for accounting.

“I’m excited to be part of Project Be Free, an organization that aligns with a mission and values that I truly believe in!”

Program Assistant

Therapeutic Case Manager

Domestic Violence Advocate

Katya Wojcik – Executive Director, Co-founder & Domestic Violence Outreach MHP

Katya Wojcik, is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and the Co-Founder of Project Be Free. With over a decade of experience in the mental health field, Katya witnessed firsthand the immense barriers survivors face when trying to access support—especially during moments of crisis. In 2020, amid the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic, she co-founded Project Be Free to provide immediate, community-based, trauma-informed services that honor the cultural, linguistic, and emotional needs of survivors and their families. Her work as a domestic violence co-responder across the cities of Renton, Kent, Auburn, and Newcastle reflects her belief in meeting individuals where they are—often at the most critical and vulnerable moments of their lives.

As a survivor of domestic violence and the daughter of immigrant parents, Katya brings lived experience, deep cultural humility, and a strong commitment to equity and social justice. She is passionate about helping others heal, advocate for themselves, and regain control of their stories. Katya is currently a candidate for the Doctor of Social Work (DSW) program at USC and remains dedicated to advancing systems that support long-term healing and resilience. (Also speaks: Polish/Spanish/Russian)

Joel Thomas – Community Outreach Manager

Joel Thomas, comes from a law enforcement background. During this time he saw how the lack of resources provided to those affected by Domestic Violence was limited, and in most cases, and only utilized in extreme situations.

Most families were left to figure things out on their own after a traumatic event in their homes, that involved the police. Lots of times individuals feel marginalized or discriminated against due to religious beliefs, ethnicity, background or sexual orientation.

Joel’s passion is being able to share the feeling of relief you get when you feel hope, help, and support during times of stress and trauma.

Irasema Petralia – Behavioral Health Program Manager

Irasema Petralia is a Licensed Mental Health Therapist (LMHC). She is an experienced professional with a demonstrated history of working with children, adults and their families.

Irasema is passionate about mentoring and building strong teams that focus in our core mission to increase advocacy and promote individual wellbeing. As a Mexican immigrant Irasema has had the privilege of working with the Hispanic population and enhancing the well-being of vulnerable populations.

She believes in helping clients and their families form a strong connection with their community, by connecting them with resources available for them, and help them build a sense of hope that comes from believing in yourself and the world around them. 

Irasema’s goal is to inspire by example, adhering to her principles and understanding other beliefs with compassion and humility. (Also Speaks: Spanish)

Marcos Sauri – Substance Abuse & Youth At-Risk Specialist

Marcos is a Substance Use Disorder Certified Clinician & Supervisor (SUDP, CDS III, NCAC I) who has been serving the community for over 20 years. He is passionate about social justice, equity, and human rights, and is committed to serve marginalized communities. Marcos strives to be a voice and advocate for those suffering from addictions, behavior, and mental health related challenges.

Marcos graduated from Northwest Indian College in 2008 with a focus in Chemical Dependency Studies. He currently holds certifications in Substance Use Disorder Professional, Chemical Dependency Specialist in Indian Country/Tribal Communities, and is a Nationally Certified Addictions Counselor.

Marcos is humbled and excited to collaborate with Project Be Free in a consultant role to help launch the mentoring program. With over 23 years in recovery, Marcos considers it an honor to share his experience, strength, and hope with the community. (Also Speaks: Spanish)

Bella Lomax – Program Assistant

Bella was adopted and raised in Ellensburg, Washington by parents that have backgrounds in careers of psychology, anatomy and physiology. This gave her the unique perspective of mental and physical health combined. Her ancestry is a blend of Japanese, African American & Caucasian. Upon graduating from high school she completed her state cosmetology certification.

Throughout her 20 year hair career, she has experienced working with all walks of life on an intimate level.  In this next chapter of life she is being drawn to moving into a position in which she will support an organization that is rooted in the power of community and giving back. 

Bella feels great satisfaction helping others and seeing the difference that can be made when people come together for a common cause. In her downtime she enjoys spending quality time with her kids, getting outdoors, reading, and cooking. These activities not only provide her with a sense of balance, but also cultivate her creativity and inspire fresh perspectives in her work. 

Alice Butler – Domestic Violence Outreach MHP

Alice is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy Associate (LMFTA). She has over 3 years of experience working with families, couples, children, teens, and adults. She also served in the Navy for four years and worked with sailors and their families. Alice holds a BA in Experimental Psychology from the University of South Carolina and a Master of Arts in Psychology with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy from Brandman University.

Alice has worked in different settings from community mental health to in-home therapy services to private practice settings. She is sincerely passionate about working with clients in order to help individuals deal with issues involving mental and emotional health.

She strives to help individuals break free from their feelings of despair, dissatisfaction, and dismay and regain or gain a sense of control, peace, and wholeness. She specializes in family counseling in helping the system find resolutions to their issues or concerns, while also developing/improving each individual’s listening and communication skills. Alice is also the daughter of immigrant parents and welcomes individuals of all cultural views. (Also speaks: Spanish)

Yogi Patel – Domestic Violence Outreach MHP

Yogi Patel is a Mental Health Professional with Project Be Free, bringing a strong background in psychology, crisis response, and youth development. He earned his Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northwest University and holds a bachelor’s degree in Clinical Psychology with a minor in Computer Science from Seattle Pacific University. During his undergraduate studies, Yogi also participated in independent research focused on cognitive psychology.

Over the past four years, Yogi has worked across a variety of behavioral health settings, supporting youth, families, and individuals experiencing complex challenges. His professional experience includes serving as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) within the Bellevue and Mercer Island School Districts, as well as working as an Eating Disorder Counselor at Overlake Medical Center. Through these roles, he developed extensive experience working with youth and individuals navigating mental health, behavioral, and emotional concerns.

Yogi is trained in Psychological First Aid and de-escalation techniques and is passionate about creating environments where individuals feel safe, supported, and empowered to grow. As part of Project Be Free’s Crisis Response Team, he provides trauma-informed support to survivors and families while helping connect community members to resources and pathways toward healing. “My approach is rooted in empathy, cultural humility, and trauma-informed care. I believe every person deserves a space where they feel heard, respected, and supported. My goal is to help individuals build resilience, discover their strengths, and move toward meaningful growth and healing.” (Also speaks: Gujarati and Hindi)

Yesica Luna – Domestic Violence Outreach MHP

Yesica is an Associate Clinical Social Worker who earned her Master of Social Work degree from Seattle University. Before pursuing her graduate studies, she spent over 14 years working in the substance use disorder field, specializing in discharge planning and care coordination.

As a first-generation Latina, Yesica is deeply committed to social justice and serving historically marginalized communities. She approaches her work through a trauma-informed lens and integrates her own lived experiences to foster healing, empowerment, and trust with her clients. Her therapeutic style is rooted in empathy, compassion, and a strengths-based perspective, drawing on techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy to support clients in achieving meaningful change.

Yesica is especially passionate about working in holistic clinical settings with individuals—particularly women and children—and is dedicated to creating spaces of safety, growth, and resilience. (Also speaks: Spanish, French)

John Awai – Community Liaison

John was born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii to parents of mixed Hawaiian, Caucasian and Chinese ancestry. He was a police officer for 32.5 years. 7 years with the Honolulu Police Department (patrol and narcotics), and 25.5 years with the Renton Police Department (patrol, detective, and background investigator).

Growing up in a household witnessing domestic violence increased John’s passion to support those being affected by violence. Throughout his law enforcement career, he has been a huge advocate for the education and prevention of domestic violence, with an emphasis towards the Hispanic community.

John lived for several years in Mexico immersing himself in the culture. In this next chapter of life, John is eager to utilize his lived experience, knowledge and expertise to support those within the community as liaison. (Also speaks: Spanish)

Olivia Tung – Theraputic Case Manager

Olivia serves as Project Be Free’s Therapeutic Case Manager, where she supports individuals and families in navigating resources, overcoming barriers, and working toward their personal goals. She earned her Master’s degree in Counseling from Seattle University and is committed to providing compassionate, trauma-informed support that honors each person’s unique experiences and strengths.

Olivia is passionate about creating a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment where individuals feel heard, respected, and empowered. She believes that meaningful change happens through authentic connection and collaboration, and she strives to build trusting relationships that help clients move toward healing, stability, and growth.

Her approach is grounded in empathy, cultural humility, and a strengths-based perspective. Olivia is dedicated to continuous professional development and reflective practice to ensure she provides high-quality, client-centered care. She is honored to walk alongside individuals and families as they navigate challenges and build pathways toward resilience and well-being.

Steve Kajihiro – Youth Outreach Specialist

Steve Kajihiro retired as Chief of Police for the Newcastle Police Department after a distinguished 34-year career in law enforcement. Born and raised in Hawaiʻi, Steve brings a strong sense of service, compassion, and the spirit of ʻohana (family) to his work with others. He holds a master’s degree in Pastoral Counseling with an emphasis in Crisis and Trauma and served on the King County Sheriff & Office Peer Support Team, providing assistance and support to first responders during times of personal and professional crisis.

Drawing on decades of experience serving communities and supporting those affected by trauma, Steve is committed to helping individuals build resilience, overcome adversity, and live healthy, safe, and fulfilling lives. In addition to his professional work, Steve is a certified personal trainer and bodybuilder who believes in the transformative power of fitness, discipline, and personal growth. He enjoys helping others discover their strength both physically and emotionally and achieve their full potential.

Maritza Hernandez – Domestic Violence Advocate

Maritza graduated from California State University, Chico and has over 8 years of experience working with children and families in various settings including homes, schools, and communities.

She has had the privilege of supporting diverse populations in the fields of mental health and education. She is genuinely passionate about advocating for mental health, social justice, and environmental justice. Maritza believes in using her voice and resources to help others regain their voice and inner power.

She indulges in hobbies, which include reading, creating audio documentaries, going on nature walks, dancing, and trying out new restaurants. Being the daughter of immigrant parents herself, Maritza embraces people from all cultural perspectives (Also Speaks: Spanish)

Michelle Littleton – Domestic Violence Advocate

Michelle was born and raised in China, she made the life-changing decision to move to the United States 11 years ago. Since then, she has experienced a remarkable journey of personal and professional growth. Upon graduating from college, she entered the banking industry and spent seven fulfilling years honing her skills and gaining valuable experience. Michelle felt a calling to contribute to a cause that aligned more closely with my passions. Driven by a deep desire to make a positive impact on society, she is embarking on a new path as a Domestic Violence Advocate.

Michelle feels this role will allows her to support and advocate for survivors of domestic violence, empowering them to break free from abusive situations and rebuild their lives. She is grateful to be part of a dedicated team working on this important project. Drawing from her cultural background, Michelle brings a unique perspective to her work. Michelle hopes to contribute to the growth and implementation of impactful programs, all aimed at eliminating domestic violence and fostering safer, communities. She is dedicated to advocating for those who have been silenced and marginalized, she believes that every individual deserves a life free from fear and abuse. Michelle remains determined to use her experiences to positively impact the lives of others and create a society where domestic violence is eradicated, and survivors can thrive. (Also speaks: Cantonese, Mandarin)

Sweetra Fazly – Domestic Violence Advocate

Sweetra Fazly is an immigrant who came to the United States 7 years ago. She is currently pursuing a degree in Medical Administration with an anticipated graduation in 2025. Sweetra has worked with immigrants for over five years, and she has a deep understanding of the immigrant experience and witnessed challenges faced by those seeking a new life in the United States. “I am not only multilingual but bridge builder between cultures. I love to help people and that makes my soul happy.” (Also speaks: Dari, Hindi & Pashto)

Alina Nikitchenko – Domestic Violence Advocate

Alina Nikitchenko is a graduate of Kiev State University, where she majored in bibliography and philology. With a strong foundation in languages, she is fluent in English, Russian, and Ukrainian. Her professional background includes valuable experience working at the airport, where she efficiently managed paperwork and assisted passengers with check-in, showcasing adept organizational skills and an ability to communicate effectively across diverse backgrounds.

Outside of her professional endeavors, she is passionate about psychology and interpersonal relations, delving into the intricacies of human behavior and fostering meaningful connections with others. (Also speaks: Russian and Ukrainian)

Roza Aman – Domestic Violence Advocate

Roza is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate (LMHCA). She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Washington State University and her Masters of Art in Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Seattle University.

Roza is an immigrant and first-generation graduate and speaks four languages. She has experience working with diverse populations both in Mental Health and Education settings. She believes mental health is critical and should be equitably available to all.

Roza hopes to empower people by providing care through inclusive and compassionate practice. (Also speaks: Oromo, Amharic, Swahili)

Suchika Siotia – Domestic Violence Advocate

Ana Amador Desiderio – Domestic Violence Advocate

Ana is a mentor, advocate, speaker, and certified coach. She is the founder of “Aprende a Sanar Para Que Aprendas a Vivir,” which translates to “Learn to Heal So You Can Learn to Live.” Ana is an advocate who values education, emotional healing, personal growth, and restoration in wellness and faith. Through workshops and coaching, she empowers individuals to navigate their personal journeys toward healing and self-discovery.

As a Domestic Violence (DV) Advocate, Ana is dedicated to supporting survivors with compassion and culturally relevant care. She is committed to fostering safe spaces where individuals can find strength and resilience. (Also Speaks: Spanish)

Melanie Ukosakul – Domestic Violence Advocate

Melanie is a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) in the state of Washington. She has experience working with survivors of domestic violence both in the private practice and community mental health settings. She has a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology from Seattle Pacific University and a Masters of Arts in Counseling Psychology from the Seattle School. 

Melanie’s experience growing up in Thailand in a multicultural community and identifying as an adult Third Culture Kid (TCK) informs her therapeutic work that centers clients’ various cross-cultural identities, stress, burnout, and vicarious trauma.

Melanie’s hope and passion is for individuals to experience a deep sense of belonging, connection, and home in themselves and in their communities. (Also speaks: Thai)

Dr. Miriam Bocchetti – Grant Consultant

Dr. Miriam Bocchetti is the director of grants at Central Washington University (CWU), providing leadership to five federal programs: the College Assistance Migran Program (CAMP), the High School EquivalencyProgram (HEP),  TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) and two Educational Opportunity Center (EOC) programs. Miriam recently completed her PhD at Colorado State University in Higher Education Leadership; she hopes that her dissertation, A Funds of Knowledge Study on The College Persistence Experiences of First Year Latinx Students in The College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP), will ultimately inform educators of the best practices for connecting with, and providing meaningful services to, migrant students and families.

Miriam is currently serving as the HEP/CAMP Association Board President. She has also served as an integral member of the HEP/CAMP national conference planning committee since 2009, assisting with the annual HEP CAMP conference planning efforts. She also actively engages in national mentoringefforts, providing support and guidance to new HEP CAMP project directors in various states. In her free time, she enjoys reading, podcasts, traveling, playing trivia, comedy shows and concerts. (Also speaks: Spanish)

Adolat Babakulova – Counseling Intern

Cecil Bryant – Counseling Intern

Kim Wagner – Counseling Intern

Kim is a student at the University of Washington, earning her Master’s Degree in Applied Child & Adolescent Psychology: Prevention & Treatment. She worked for over three years as a behaviorist at a non-profit in Salem, Oregon, where she provided behavior assessment, treatment, and consultation for individuals from diverse backgrounds. Kim’s treatment ideology centers on building positive relationships as a foundation for ongoing trust and rapport. She focuses on the person as a whole, utilizing holistic treatments to support clients of all identities.

Kim states, “Telling a stranger some of the things you find most shameful, scary, or distressing about yourself or your life may feel impossibly difficult. It’s okay if it takes time to open up. I’m here to be a safe person and to provide a safe space whenever you’re ready. I’m just happy you’re here.”

Warfa Shifow – Counseling Intern

Julie Bui – Counseling Intern

Magali Arabel – Counseling Intern

Magali is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Seattle University. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Oregon State University and is passionate about supporting individuals and communities in their journey toward healing, self-understanding, and meaningful growth. Originally from Argentina, Magali built a professional career leading and supporting diverse teams before beginning her clinical training. Through this work, she developed a deep appreciation for creating environments where people feel heard, valued, and empowered.

Magali approaches her therapeutic work from a holistic, trauma-informed perspective and enjoys collaborating with clients to connect the mind, body, and spirit with intentional action as they build lives that reflect their most authentic selves. She is especially passionate about strengthening communities and expanding access to mental health care so that more people have the opportunity to heal, grow, and thrive.

Outside of work, Magali enjoys gardening, spending time in nature with her dog, and exploring practices that nurture connection, balance, and wellbeing. (Also speaks: Spanish)