Meet Our Team

Ric Boyce LCSW. Ric is a clinical social worker who has specialized in working with families, complex behavioral and parenting challenges, trauma and men's issues. Therapeutically he uses a combination of Adlerian, Cognitive behavioral (CBT), motivational interviewing, DBT, and behavioral approaches. He grew up in England and moved to the United States in 1998. He is is active in the local community fulfilling multiple volunteer positions. He was president of the Idaho Society of Individual Psychology in 2021 and founded Mental Health Specialists in 2010.

Saeward is a Licensed Professional Counselor who works in our Pocatello office. She obtained a Bachelor of Science in Psychology at Liberty University and went on the get her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Walden University. Saeward’s practice specialties include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Trauma-focused CBT, and Neurofeedback. Her focus is working with individuals who experience depression, anxiety disorders, trauma, posttraumatic stress disorder, self-esteem, and relationship issues, and personality disorders. In her free time, Saeward enjoys doing DIY projects and spending time with her family. 

Matthew Bishop earned his Bachelor's Degree in Psychology in 2007 and has been working in Mental Health ever since.  He has 10 years experience as a PSR Specialist, CBRS Specialist, Case Manager, and Respite Care worker.  He has excelled in many administrative roles such as: CBRS Team Lead, CBRS Manager, CBRS Trainer, Authorization Specialist, Office Manager, Director of Operations, and is currently Administrative Manager.  Matt earned a Master's Degree of Business Administration in 2019.  He joined our team January 2020 and is happy to be part of this amazing team.  He believes in helping team members and clients reach their potential, creating a fun but productive working environment, and being as supportive as possible to all team members.    

Information coming soon!

Hey there! My name is Spring Neihart and I an RN in 2004 after studying at ISU. I have over 20 years’ experience in health care, most of that has been working with those with mental illness. 

I have recently graduated from Idaho State University with my Doctoral degree in Nursing Practice and am now a board certified, fully licensed, and credentialed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner. My goal is to provide proficient care for anyone struggling with mental illness. I provide honest, direct communication with colleagues and patients. I believe in honesty and integrity in all things I do. Nursing has the responsibility and the privilege to provide the best possible care for everyone, regardless of socioeconomics, ethnicity, gender, religion, disability, and any other label used to divide people. Every person is more than their diagnosis or their insurer and should be treated as an individual.  

Information Coming Soon!

Kenric is a Licensed Social Worker who works in our Pocatello office. He obtained a Bachelor of Science in Psychology at Brigham Young University and a Master’s degree in Social Work at Boise State University. Kenric specializes in trauma-focused therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, shame resilience therapy and motivational interviewing. Kenric works well with both teenagers and adults with PTSD, depression, anxiety, obsessive and compulsions, as well as those who struggle with confidence and/or being assertive. Kenric enjoys spending his free time with family, playing music, exercising and making art.

Steve graduated with his Master's Degree in Social Work in 2010. He has a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology with a minor in Children and Family Studies. He has significant experience serving those with developmental challenges. He enjoys using a variety of activities and even story-telling to engage young clients in therapy. The elderly often find him reassuring and understanding of generational changes as he helps them navigate the unique challenges of aging.

Candice is a Licensed Professional Counselor who graduated with her Masters of Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Idaho State University in May of 2023. Candice received her Bachelor of Psychology from ISU in 2018. She works with OCD, anxiety, depression, and trauma. She uses a lot of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and works with clients of all ages. Has experience with play therapy and children with behavioral disorders and providing parents with skills to use when dealing with kids.  

Star is currently our Clinical Supervisor. She specializes in working with anxiety, trauma, and grief. She has worked with Bessel Van Der Kolk, author of Body Keeps the Score, who himself, is a worldwide trauma expert. She focuses on mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, and EMDR. She loves her work, the outdoors, and her family.

Joe is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who works in our Pocatello office. He obtained a Bachelor of Psychology at the University of Utah and went on to get his Master of Counseling at Idaho State University. Joe’s practice specialties include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Adlerian Therapy, and Neurofeedback. His focus is working with individuals who struggle with depression, Anxiety, PTSD, faith crisis issues, ADHD, and Oppositional Defiance. In his free time, Joe enjoys hiking, playing tennis, and reading. He is bilingual, speaking both English and Spanish

Garren is a Licensed Master Social Worker who works in our Pocatello office. He obtained a Bachelor of Social Work at Idaho State University and went on to get his Master of Social Work at Boise State University. Garren’s practice specialties include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Logotherapy. His focus is working with individuals who struggle with anger and individuals with disabilities. Garren often leads our DBT therapy group. In his free time, Garren enjoys woodworking, reading, and playing fantasy football.

Greg is a Licensed Professional Counselor who works in our Pocatello office. He obtained a Bachelor of Sciences in Elementary Education and a specialization in Special Education at West Virginia University at Parkersburg and continued on to receive his Master of Arts in Psychology, from Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia. with concentrations in Clinical, Family and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.  His focus is on those who experience anxiety, depression, autism, self-esteem and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder,  He enjoys extended and immediate family. He and his wife enjoy being alone and binge-watching series. I enjoy my Career. I care about the daily quality of life for my clients.

Lisa is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who works in our Pocatello and Blackfoot office. She obtained a Master of Counseling at Idaho State University. Lisa’s practice specialties include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Trauma-focused CBT, Client-Centered, and Solution Focused. Her focus is working with individuals who experience depression, anxiety disorders, trauma, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, self-esteem, self-harm, parenting, and working with families and couples. In her free time, Lisa enjoys camping, exploring, and spending time with her family.

Info coming soon

Kristen is a dedicated clinician passionate about helping clients navigate life's challenges. She holds a Bachelor of Social Work and a Master of Counseling. Kristen specializes in anxiety treatment and has extensive experience helping individuals overcome emotional trauma. She creates a safe, supportive environment that encourages clients to explore their emotions, gain insights, and develop coping strategies. Kristen uses various evidence-based therapeutic modalities, including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotional Freedom Techniques and Tapping (EFT), and Mindfulness. In her free time, Kristen enjoys traveling, tasty meals, camping, snowboarding, and spending time with her family.

Stephanie is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who has worked at our Pocatello office since 2020. She obtained her Bachelors of Science in Psychology and Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of Phoenix. Stephanie uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Shame Resilience Theory, and Neurofeedback Training to provide trauma-informed, strengths-based care. She has worked with clients of all ages, individually and in groups, and with families to help clients with depression, anxiety, PTSD, Autism, ADHD, and other behavioral, emotional, and communication challenges. Stephanie is also working towards certification in Adlerian therapy. In her free time, Stephanie enjoys playing Pokemon Go, reading, writing poetry, listening to music, and spending time with her daughter and grandson.

Lisa is a Licensed Masters Social Worker who works in the Blackfoot office.  She obtained her Bachelors in Social Work degree from Idaho State University and her Master’s in Social Work degree from Northwest Nazarene University.  Lisa’s practice specialties include with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.  Lisa’s focus is in working with individuals with anxiety disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and depression.  Lisa enjoys in her free time by; camping, hiking, and baking.  She also enjoys spending time with her husband and family. 

Nicki is a Licensed Social Worker who works from home in Cordoba, Argentina. She obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Marriage and Family Studies from Brigham Young University - Idaho and her Masters in Social Work from Northwest Nazarene University. Nicki often leads the DBT and Self-compassion groups. Her focus in therapy is to create a safe environment for individuals, couples, and families to learn to connect with their internal struggles enough to help them overcome challenges and barriers that are keeping them from feeling like their best version of themselves. She is bilingual, speaking both English and Spanish. She enjoys going for walks, time in the outdoors enjoying nature, and watching a movie or series.

Heather graduated from ISU in 2017 with her masters in School Counseling and is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). Heather uses multiple evidence-based therapeutic approaches including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Person-Centered Counseling, just to name a few. Heather has experience working with individuals, couples, and families, who have experienced challenges in their lives. She works with a variety of presenting concerns including, but not limited to: anxiety, depression, PTSD, couples, sexual identity, trauma, and diverse populations. In her spare time, Heather likes to spend time outdoors, loves music, and attending concerts and festivals. 

Rob is a licensed professional counselor working in our Pocatello office who enjoys working with indivduals of all ages experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Rob received his master's degree from Idaho State University and specializes in utilizing techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy and dialetical behavioral therapy. In his free time Rob enjoys playing sports, exercising, hiking, playing the piano, hanging out with friends and family. 

I started my social work journey in 2019 in order to get my Bachelor's in Social Work in 2023 with minors in Psychology and Sign Language Studies. I received my Master's in Social Work in August 2024. I like to work with kids and adults, especially on grounding skills, emotional understanding, and emphasizing self-care. I love crafts, watching movies, reading, and decorating for each season.

James F. Bakaitis, LCPC earned a master's degree in clinical psychology and is licensed in Idaho as a Professional Counselor. He has provided behavioral health services for children, adolescents and adults since 1989, specializing in helping clients manage trauma, behavior, mood and anxiety problems. Mr. Bakaitis has enjoyed working in the field as he has helped people improve and maintain their mental health.  He is married and has adult children. 

Kathy is a Licensed Social Worker who works in our Pocatello. She obtained her Bachelor of Social work at Idaho State University. As a case manager, she offers services and resources to help members become more confident and stable in their family and community. She works to think outside the box and come up with creative ways to help others be as independent as possible. In order to do this, Kathy allows others to determine their path in life, and pick their goals. In her free time, Kathy enjoys spending time with her husband, riding her horses, spending time outdoors, work on their ranch with cows, mini donkeys, and other animals. She has 12 grandkids and 5 dogs.

I’m a Community Based Rehabilitation Services provider. I like to teach skills in practical ways with real world examples. I enjoy learning about a client’s interests and using those to help the client practice the skills they’re learning in therapy. I have a Bachelor of Science from the University of Idaho for Virtual Technology and Design. It’s focus on process and project management helps me set realistic goals and pacing for my clients. I have a wide variety of hobbies including Archery, Hiking, Woodworking, Video Games, and many others.  

Matt is a Community Based Rehabilitation Services (CBRS) provider. Matt earned his Bachelor’s of Philosophy in Psychology from Idaho State University. He is currently attending Idaho State University in the Masters Degree program for Social Work. Matt is direct and likes working with clients as part of a team to achieve the long term goals created through the entire counseling process. Teaching skills that will help the client’s daily living and achieve an overall better quality of life is Matt’s overall goal. Matt has over 10 years of experience working in various roles in the mental health field with people from all walks of life. In his spare time Matt enjoys outdoor activities with his family, traveling and woodworking. 

Hello! I'm a passionate Latina from sunny southeastern Colorado, where I love hiking, playing soccer, and stargazing. Currently, I'm studying Special Education for Elementary students at Idaho State University. My superpower is connecting with youth facing emotional, mental, or physical challenges. I believe everyone has unique talents waiting to be discovered. As a respite worker, I strive to create a safe environment for these amazing young minds to explore their interests and abilities. I'm excited to support them in trying new things and discovering their own “superpowers.” With a blend of humor and heart, I look forward to this adventure together!

Hello there! I am a Community Based Rehabilitation Services provider here in Pocatello. I have a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Idaho State University and a minor in Sign Language Studies. I love helping kids, teens, and young adults identify what our community has to offer. I strive to find a connection with everyone I meet. I truly believe that everyone could benefit from having a buddy accompany them throughout the day, no matter the task. In my free time I can likely be found doing something arts & crafts related, playing video games or board games with my husband, practicing the piano, or reading in a cozy book nook. 

MaTece graduated from Idaho State University in 2024 with a bachelors of social work. MaTece is currently attending LSU to achieve her masters of social work as she work towards her goal of becoming a mental health therapist. As a case manager and CBRS worker MaTece enjoys helping her clients achieve stability and accomplish their goals. MaTece is passionate about mental health and enjoys working with people from all different walks of life. When MaTece is not at work she can usually be found listening to Taylor Swift, reading a book, hanging out with her cat, and spending time with family. 

I have been a registered nurse for 32 years in various care settings, including corrections, hospice, and mental health.  However, my favorite role is to be Granny Patty.  I also enjoy sewing, baking and watching Jim Carrey’s “The Grinch”. 

I am a CBRS service provider who is on the track to completion of my Masters in Social Work at Idaho State University. In the near future, I look forward to becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and practicing therapy. I believe in meeting my clients where they are at in their healing journey and working with them to improve their strengths. In my free time I enjoy spending time outdoors and connecting with nature. 

Natasha is a dedicated Peer Support Specialist and Youth Support Provider, who brings compassion, strength, and authenticity to her work through the power of lived experience. Having walked the path of mental health and addiction recovery herself, she offers a unique perspective and deep empathy to those she supports. Natasha is passionate about helping others feel seen, heard, and empowered, using her journey as a source of hope and connection. Her approach is rooted in genuine care, resilience, and the belief that healing is possible for everyone. 

BS in Criminal Justice and Human Services through Colorado Technical University. Background working with at-risk youth. Worked as a Juvenile Counselor in Minnesota at the West Central Regional Juvenile Detention Center, supporting troubled youth through active guidance and treatment programming.  Programs Manager with the Blackfoot Community Center working with at-risk youth and supporting community engagement through programming and education. Also facilitated a Americorps program working with the Americorps volunteers through the Snake River Jr High school for education assistance and after school programs and activities. Hobbies include spending time with family, my kids are my life, and I love trying new things and adventures. I also love to cook and think I am pretty good at it.

Information Coming Soon!