Access is an outpatient behavioral health clinic. We serve people of all communities and currently offer two locations in Boise and in Nampa. Our desire is to help improve the quality of daily life for our clients.
Access Behavioral Health Services is a for profit agency that serves the public without regard to race, creed, age, national origin, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, veteran status or inability to pay. The owners have been in the field of human services for a combined 30+ years. At Access we pride ourselves on providing best-practice client-centered services.
Our mission is to provide compassionate, evidence-based mental health care that empowers individuals to achieve emotional well-being and resilience. We are dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where every person feels valued and heard. Through personalized treatment, community engagement, and education, we strive to enhance the quality of life for our clients and promote mental health awareness in our community.
Our vision is to be a leader in behavioral health, creating a humane and inclusive community where every individual feels safe, accepted, and supported. We envision a resourceful environment that fosters growth through collaborative engagement and innovative, progressive approaches to mental health care. By prioritizing accessibility and education, we aim to empower individuals towards independence and lasting connection, influencing positive change in the lives of those we serve.
Our Values: We are committed to fostering a culture of respect and integrity, grounded in kindness and compassion. Our person-centered approach prioritizes the needs of each individual, promoting an accepting and non-judgmental environment. We value competence and transparency, ensuring our services are both consistent and creative in addressing diverse mental health needs. With a courageous and bold spirit, we empower our clients through unconditional support and comprehensive care. Our open-minded and genuine attitude encourages growth, engagement, and a sense of community for everyone we serve.
Staff Directory
We value our employees as they are the most important resource. Our employees are highly trained, supervised, and receive ongoing levels of support during their employment. We hire people from a wide range of backgrounds to meet the individualized needs of our patients. We are always seeking out new dynamic individuals to add to our treatment team. We strive to make Access Behavioral Health Services a welcoming place to work and we believe that is reflected in our employees attitudes towards their work.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) currently and have been counseling since 2021, and have multiple years of working as a case manager and CBRS prior to starting this position. This gives me a wide array of knowledge of systems and community supports, as well as the clinical experience and training to supports clients in the best possible way. For training I regularly attend the Adlerian conferences and use many of the skills learned from these in my counseling. Primarily however my focus is often on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and solution focused therapies or choice theories in a counseling session. In essence looking for repeated patterns in life and identifying what choices a person may have that they might not have identified yet, to work on minimizing or eliminating cognitive dissonance a person may be experiencing. I have worked at Access Behavioral Health since 2017 in various positions.
My style of counseling is not designed to tell you what to do, but more to guide you to finding your answers since you are the true authority in life and know yourself better than I do for sure. I work to ensure I understand what you are saying, and to understand it from your viewpoint if possible. I strive to be very upfront, real, and honest with you as I possibly can be. Previously clients have stated they appreciate my direct, compassionate responses, and most would say I will talk to you if I see something is not making sense (at the very least to understand where you are coming from). I prefer to work with adults (18 and up), but I do take some younger clients most usually not younger than 14. My approach requires abstract thinking and problem-solving which is often not appropriate or the best choice for counseling for the younger population as much.
Back when I was a wee dreamer, I had plans of becoming a famous rock star and changing the world. Fast forward a bit, and here I am—rocking the world in a different way.
I’ve been in the behavioral health field since Graduating from BSU with a BS in Psychology December 2008, helping folks navigate life’s twists and turns. I joined the Access team in May 2011 and it was like finding my place on the world’s stage—a great fit for my passion to make a difference. I completed my MBA in June 2013 and around that time I joined the Supervisory team in the Community Based Services department. I’ve been the Clinic Manager since January 2022, I’m like the conductor of a quirky but lovable orchestra, leading my team through the highs and lows with equal parts humor and humility. Together, we’re on a mission to sprinkle kindness, understanding, and maybe a dash of dad jokes, to help brighten our patients’ days.
I firmly believe that our team at Access is as competent as they come, though I’ll admit, we’re not above Googling the occasional medical term. But hey, who needs fancy degrees when you’ve got heart, right? Every morning, I count my lucky stars for the opportunity to do what I love. My job isn’t just a paycheck; it’s a chance to be a tiny, quirky cog in the grand machine of making the world a bit brighter. So, whether you’re stopping by for a chat or a check-up, know that you’re in good hands with us. Let’s change the world, one smile at a time!
Pamela went to Boise State University and earned her Bachelors of Science in Nursing in 1988. She worked for St. Alphonsus for 20years and loved being a nurse. In 2002, she graduated from Idaho State University with a degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner. She started working right away in psych. Even though she continures to work at St. Al’s her heart is with her new chosen career.
She loves her job. She really enjoys working with families. Pamela treats complex clients and loves working with patients as whole people, addressing all aspects of their life with them. She gets excited when they improve.
Pamela started working at Access BHS in April 7, 2006. Her first office was literally the broom closet. She used to have to move the one and only chair clients could sit in so that she could open the door.
Pamela enjoys watching Access come from there to the thriving dynamic business it is today. The only thing that has not changed is the compassion and caring for the clients. What a journey this has been so far. She looks forward to many more years and successes.
Gina Barragan is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a profound commitment to mental health and holistic healing. She holds a Masters in Mental Health Counseling and integrates yoga and breathwork seamlessly into her therapeutic approach. Gina believes in the profound connection between mind and body, utilizing movement, breath, and stretching to foster self-awareness and facilitate emotional healing.
With 9 years of experience as a therapist, Gina has been with Access for 4 1/2 years, dedicating herself to guiding individuals on their healing journeys. Her therapeutic sessions are a blend of meditation, breathwork, journaling, and yoga, aimed at deepening self-understanding and exploring uncharted aspects of one’s inner world.
Gina finds fulfillment in her profession, driven by a genuine desire to support individuals in overcoming challenges and achieving personal growth. Inspired by Matthew Perry’s words, she embraces each day with a blend of longing, peace, gratitude, and a profound understanding of personal growth and resilience.
Meet Jill Boatman, a compassionate Pediatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in Idaho with a specialization in pediatric mental health. Jill earned her Master’s of Science in Nursing, focusing on pediatric health, and has been immersed in the field of mental health since her nursing education at Boise State University.
With a proactive approach to professional development, Jill stays updated through resources like the Carlat report and psychiatric podcasts, complemented by annual formal education in pediatric mental health. She values forming connections within family systems to collaboratively achieve children’s mental health goals, advocating for non-medication strategies such as sleep hygiene and socialization.
As a native Idahoan, Jill cherishes outdoor activities like hiking, biking, kayaking, and traveling, while also enjoying indoor pursuits like game nights with friends. She specializes in mental health medication management for children and young adults up to their 21st birthday, bringing over two years of dedicated service in pediatric mental health to Access.
Jill Boatman is committed to nurturing mental well-being and supporting families on their journey to holistic health and happiness.
Dr. Cheryl Botting-Hammack has a Doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology. Through the years she has provided therapeutic services to clients of various ages and backgrounds.
Jared Brown serves as the Clinic Admin Supervisor at Access Behavioral Health, where he plays a pivotal role in ensuring smooth operations and effective communication between clients and providers. Acting as a liaison, Jared facilitates seamless interaction and support for both clients and staff members. In addition to his liaison duties, he provides invaluable support to the administrative team and assists in front desk operations, contributing to the overall efficiency of the clinic.
Outside of work, Jared finds joy and rejuvenation in sports and outdoor activities. Whether he’s hitting the trails for a hike or shooting hoops on the court, Jared embraces an active lifestyle that fuels his passion for adventure and exploration.
Jared holds a Master of Arts degree and has been an integral part of the Access Behavioral Health team since 2023. With his dedication to fostering effective communication and ensuring operational excellence, Jared continues to make a positive impact on the organization and its clients.
For inquiries or assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to Jared at Jared@accessbhs.com.
Meet Ciarra Fuller, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in forensic social work. With a Masters degree in forensic social work, Ciarra brings a unique perspective to her practice, blending her expertise in legal contexts with her passion for mental health.
Continuously seeking to enhance her skills, Ciarra recently attended the Adlerian conference in Boise, focusing on ethics and therapeutic practices in rural communities. She approaches therapy from a strengths-based perspective, utilizing client-centered interventions drawn from modalities such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and solution-focused therapy.
One aspect that sets Ciarra apart is her collection of 15 tattoos, often serving as an icebreaker and a means of connection with clients who may feel apprehensive about therapy.
Ciarra’s practice is tailored to individuals aged 18 and above, and she excels in creating a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their challenges and strengths.
Since January 2023, Ciarra has been an integral part of Access Behavioral Health Services, where she has made a significant impact on the lives of her clients over the past year and a half.
My journey in healthcare began as a support worker, caring for patients with learning disabilities. While many of the patients I worked with were considered challenging, we shared moments of laughter and built incredible relationships. It was during this time that I discovered my aptitude for caring for people and decided to pursue a career in nursing.
I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN) from Idaho State University in 2010 and began my career at a psychiatric hospital. Afterward, I transitioned to a role as a float nurse at a local hospital, where I gained experience caring for patients with a wide variety of medical conditions. Witnessing the significant overlap between physical and psychiatric needs in my patients inspired me to further specialize, and I earned my Master’s degree in Psychiatric Nursing from Gonzaga University in Spokane in 2017.
For over six years, I have been practicing in Boise, working with individuals aged 18 to 99. I specialize in behavioral and mental health care, guided by ongoing professional development through the Neuroscience Education Institute. My approach is holistic—I treat the person, not the diagnosis. My goal is to support clients in addressing behavioral challenges, guiding them in their commitment to improving their lives. Whether helping someone return to their baseline or facilitating significant progress, the most rewarding part of my job is making a positive impact on the lives of those I serve.
I have experience working with teens, adults, and the elderly, and I am fluent in four languages, which helps me connect with diverse populations. Based in Boise, I am dedicated to providing compassionate, effective care that empowers my clients to take charge of their mental health and well-being.
Dr. Megan Gierhart is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist.
Meet Alexa Gunter, Boise Clinic Admin Supervisor
Alexa Gunter serves as the Boise Clinic Admin Supervisor, overseeing the seamless operation of our clinic. She assists clinic managers in supervising administrative assistants, ensuring compliance with HIPAA guidelines among clients, counselors, and nurse practitioners.
Passionate about fostering a supportive and positive environment, Alexa actively promotes a culture of compassion and excellence for clients, employees, and providers alike. Her dedication to maintaining high standards of care contributes significantly to the overall well-being of our community.
Outside of work, Alexa indulges in various hobbies, including painting, listening to music, longboarding, frisbee golfing, and reading. She cherishes spending quality time with friends and family, enriching her life with meaningful connections.
Alexa holds a Bachelor of Art degree and has been an integral part of Access Behavioral Health since October 2022. Her professionalism, enthusiasm, and commitment to service make her a valuable asset to our team.
For inquiries or assistance, please contact Alexa at alexag@accessbhs.com.
I graduated from Boise State University in 2004 with a bachelor’s degree in Social Work.
Rebecca Heihn serves as the Director of Respite for Youth with Serious Emotional Disturbance (SED) at Access Behavioral Health, overseeing the comprehensive management of the respite program. With a strong dedication to youth advocacy and mental health support, Rebecca ensures the program meets the diverse needs of its participants with compassion and expertise.
Rebecca’s personal interests include gardening, outdoor activities, and arts and crafts, reflecting her creative and nurturing approach both professionally and personally.
She holds a Bachelor of Science degree and has been contributing her skills and passion to Access BHS since 2012. Rebecca can be contacted at rebeccah@accessbhs.com for inquiries related to the respite program or youth mental health services.
Meet David Horras, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Counselor Supervisor dedicated to guiding individuals towards a life of purpose, authenticity, and genuine living. David holds a Master’s of Arts degree in Counseling from Boise State University, with additional certifications as a Counselor Supervisor and LCPC.
With a compassionate and holistic approach to therapy, David specializes in areas such as grief and loss, life transitions, finding purpose and meaning, life direction, authentic living, self-care, boundaries, and healthy communication. He draws from a diverse range of therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Play Therapy, and Wilderness Therapy. David also incorporates mindfulness practices, meditation, and holistic approaches such as nutrition and work/life balance into his work.
Idaho born and well-traveled, David brings a wealth of life experience to his practice. He finds joy in sports, spending time with loved ones, and immersing himself in the great outdoors. David lives by the principles he teaches, practicing empathy, love, and acceptance in all aspects of his life.
Since 2012, David has been a valued member of Access Behavioral Health Services (ABHS), where he has discovered profound meaning and purpose in connecting with others. He fosters an environment of non-judgment, belonging, and genuine validation, empowering his clients to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and authenticity.
Trevor Irish holds a master’s degree in clinical counseling and is extensively trained in various therapeutic modalities. His areas of expertise include Trauma CBT, Domestic Violence, Sex Offenders, Juvenile SBRs, ADHD, ADD, sex addictions, drug/alcohol addictions, Pornography, Behavioral training, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Relationship Problems, BPD, ODD, Schizophrenia, and other mental health disorders.
Trevor is committed to continuous professional development, attending CEUs annually in areas such as Domestic Violence, Addictions, Trauma, CBT, and the latest research on Sex Offenders and SBRs. This ongoing education helps him stay at the forefront of therapeutic techniques and enhance his clinical skills.
His therapeutic approach is straightforward: “What are you trying to tell us?” Trevor believes that individuals with mental health issues are attempting to communicate their struggles. He listens with all his senses and encourages clients to select modalities that resonate with them. Describing himself as a “Pandora Box,” he works with adult males and females, as well as youth aged 14 to 21. He is based in the Nampa, ID office and prefers face-to-face interactions, especially with clients facing behavioral issues, DV history, addictions, trauma from sexual assaults and abusive families, school challenges, and criminal history.
Trevor has been with Access Behavioral Health Services since September 2023. He feels blessed to have worked in various areas of mental health and believes his diverse experiences and unique approach can greatly benefit the individuals he serves.
Vanessa Johnson is a seasoned mental health professional with over 18 years of experience at Access Behavioral Health. Her journey began after completing her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a minor in Addiction studies in 2006. Vanessa has held various roles within community mental health, starting as a Psychosocial Rehabilitation Worker and Case Manager. Over the years, she progressed to become the Director of the program and spearheaded the opening of Peer Support in 2013.
Passionate about recovery and advocacy, Vanessa has dedicated herself to numerous volunteer positions, including Vice President and co-founder of Peer Wellness, and Vice President of the Recovery and Wellness Behavioral Health sub-committee. She has also contributed years of social services to the homeless population.
In 2017, Vanessa earned her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Simmons College, specializing in mental health and addiction. Since then, she has been providing psychotherapy, with a focus on holistic, strength-based, and trauma-informed approaches. In 2018, Vanessa assumed the role of Director of the Substance Abuse Treatment department.
Vanessa’s expertise spans various therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy, Adlerian Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). She is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and an Advanced Certified Addiction Counselor.
With her wealth of experience and dedication to holistic care, Vanessa works with adults and occasionally adolescents, striving to make a positive impact on their mental health and well-being.
Annie Keim is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) dedicated to empowering clients through compassionate counseling. With a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Dependency Counseling and Community Psychology, and a Master of Arts Degree in Counseling from Boise State University, Annie brings over 10 years of extensive experience in substance use disorder treatment and community mental health.
Annie is committed to ongoing professional growth, regularly attending trainings and seminars focused on substance use disorder services. She is trained in ASAM (American Society of Addiction Medicine) and is currently completing training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Her counseling approach is collaborative, emphasizing the importance of the therapeutic relationship and tailoring her methods to best suit her clients’ needs. Annie integrates theoretical approaches such as Adlerian Individual Psychology, Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), DBT, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, Annie values authenticity and understands the significance of finding a counselor who clients can relate to. She believes in uncovering clients’ strengths and resilience, focusing on their unique abilities to foster personal growth and healing.
Annie enjoys working with adult clients from diverse backgrounds, including different genders, sexual orientations, races, ethnicities, and spiritual beliefs. Her expertise spans issues such as substance use, co-occurring disorders, depression, and anxiety, making her a trusted resource at Access BHS, where she has contributed for 9 years. Starting as a CBRS and Case Manager in the community department, Annie transitioned to outpatient substance use counseling in 2017 and began offering individual mental health counseling in 2023.
Annie Keim is dedicated to supporting clients on their journey to wellness with empathy, expertise, and a commitment to fostering resilience and personal empowerment.
Shawna is a compassionate and experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). With a Masters in Nursing as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Shawna brings a wealth of expertise to her practice.
Having grown up in a rural environment, Shawna developed a deep appreciation for human connections and understanding individuals on a profound level. She carries this same interest into her work today, seeing each person as an individual rather than a diagnosis. Shawna is dedicated to sculpting treatment plans that are sustainable and aligned with her patients’ goals.
Outside of her practice, Shawna finds joy in the company of her two basset hounds and has a love for animals. She enjoys hiking, snowy adventures, and tending to her plants.
Specializing in adolescent psychiatry, Shawna works with individuals aged 12-18, as well as adults up to 65 years old, across all genders. Through telepsychiatry, she provides care to patients throughout the state of Idaho. With 20 years of experience in mental health, Shawna is highly skilled in diagnostics and psychopharmacology, having worked in various settings including corrections, VA hospitals, and inpatient psychiatric care.
Shawna has been an invaluable member of Access Behavioral Health since 2013, bringing her expertise and compassion to her patients’ care. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Boise State University in 2004 and has dedicated her nursing career to mental health, culminating in the completion of her MSN as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in 2009.
Meet Deni Lyn Lequerica, a dedicated professional with a Bachelor of Science in Health Science, specializing in addiction and prevention, and a minor in addiction studies and psychology. Deni is a member of the PSI CHI Psychology Honor Society, reflecting her commitment to academic excellence and the pursuit of knowledge in her field.
With ongoing training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and ADHD, Deni is equipped with a diverse set of skills to support her clients on their journey towards wellness.
Deni’s passion lies in helping individuals discover their own potential and find a better path in life. With empathy and dedication, she provides guidance and support to empower her clients to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.
For the past six years, Deni has been an integral part of Access Behavioral Health, where she has made a positive impact on the lives of countless individuals seeking support and guidance.
Jen graduated from Boise State University in 2015 with her Bachelor
Anabel Navarro serves as both a Mental Health Therapist and Clinical Supervisor at Access Behavioral Health. With a commitment to providing inclusive and effective therapy, Anabel works with individuals from diverse backgrounds, utilizing various therapeutic modalities, including EMDR.
In addition to her therapy work, Anabel provides clinical supervision oversight to the community-based rehabilitation services and case management departments. She prioritizes creating a safe and supportive space for LGBTQAI+ and BIPOC communities, ensuring that all individuals receive the care and respect they deserve.
Outside of her professional life, Anabel enjoys family-focused activities, running, and mountain biking. She is particularly passionate about her French Bulldog, who brings joy and companionship to her life.
Anabel holds a Masters of Arts degree in Counseling and has been an integral part of Access Behavioral Health since 2010. Her dedication to her clients and her commitment to fostering a supportive environment make her an invaluable member of our team.
Breanna Pedersen serves as the Referrals Manager at Access Behavioral Health, overseeing the seamless processing of incoming referrals and new client setups. With meticulous attention to detail, Breanna handles all aspects of referral processing, including verifying insurances for billing and scheduling initial appointments.
Outside of her professional duties, Breanna enjoys pursuing her passions, which include photography, video games, reading, and cooking. These hobbies allow her to unwind and recharge, contributing to her effectiveness in her role.
Breanna has been an integral part of the Access Behavioral Health team since 2022, bringing her expertise and dedication to ensuring that clients receive the services they need in a timely and efficient manner.
For inquiries or assistance with referrals, please contact Breanna at breannap@accessbhs.com.
I hold a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling. With over 3 years of experience as a Licensed Professional Counselor, I specialize in working with individuals aged 13 to 35, helping both males and females navigate challenges such as anxiety, psychosis, depression, and trauma. I am particularly passionate about supporting clients in finding meaning in life and building healthier relationships.
My therapeutic approach blends Person-Centered Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I strongly believe that our thoughts influence our emotions and behaviors. Automatic thoughts, often rooted in past traumas or experiences, can shape our perceptions, and I work with my clients to challenge these thoughts and view them through a new lens. I provide a safe, supportive environment where clients can identify triggers, process emotions, enhance coping skills, and explore relationship issues while learning about healthy relationship dynamics.
I have specialized training in anxiety, psychosis, trauma, ethics, grief, and suicide assessments. Drawing from personal and professional experiences, I understand the complexities of grief and loss. Additionally, I often incorporate music into therapy sessions, as I’ve found it to be a powerful tool for reducing stress and fostering emotional healing.
Outside of my work, I enjoy spending time with my husband and our cat, Gizmo. I also love going to concerts, camping, hiking, singing, and immersing myself in the natural world.
Rixa Monreal holds the esteemed position of Nampa Clinic Manager and Notary Public at Access Behavioral Health. With her keen attention to detail and strong leadership skills, Rixa oversees all aspects of facility operations, ensuring smooth day-to-day functioning. She effectively manages staff and resources, fostering a collaborative and productive work environment. Rixa is dedicated to maintaining compliance with all policies, procedures, and regulations within the clinic, guaranteeing the highest standards of quality and safety for both staff and clients.
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Rixa finds solace and joy in her personal pursuits. An avid reader, she enjoys immersing herself in the worlds of fantasy and romantasy literature. Rixa also prioritizes her physical well-being by regularly attending the gym. In her leisure time, she cherishes moments spent with her husband and beloved dog, finding comfort and happiness in their company.
Since joining Access Behavioral Health in 2021, Rixa has brought her expertise and dedication to her role, making significant contributions to the success of the clinic. Her commitment to excellence and her compassionate leadership style have earned her the respect and admiration of her colleagues.
For inquiries or assistance, please contact Rixa at rixa@accessbhs.com.
Meet Cara Ruiz, LPC, a dedicated mental health counselor with a passion for guiding individuals through life’s challenges. With a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling and specializations in stage of life changes, anxiety, trauma, pregnancy, and postpartum care, Cara brings expertise and empathy to every session.
Cara is committed to her clients’ well-being, pursuing certifications in LCPC, PMH-C, and EMDR to enhance her therapeutic toolkit. She takes a client-driven approach, drawing from modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and person-centered therapy (PCT) to empower her clients towards peace and fulfillment.
Based in Boise, Idaho, Cara graduated from Idaho State University and finds joy in Idaho’s outdoor beauty. Whether she’s hiking Table Rock or floating the Boise River, Cara embraces the healing power of nature.
Cara welcomes clients aged 14 and above, offering both in-person sessions and telehealth video appointments. Since 2021, she has been dedicated to providing accessible behavioral health services, walking alongside her clients on their journey to healing and growth.
Meet Laura Scuri, a dedicated co-owner of Access Behavioral Health (ABHS), overseeing critical aspects of the organization including CBRS, Case Management (CM), Peer Support, Therapeutic Child Care (TCC), Residential Habilitation (Reshab), and Payee services. With a deep commitment to enhancing behavioral health services in Idaho, Laura actively participates in state-level boards aimed at shaping and improving the system of care.
Laura’s passion for travel is matched by her love for outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing. As a proud mom of three wonderful adult children and the devoted caretaker of Olive, her energetic Weimaraner, Laura brings a nurturing and dynamic presence to both her professional and personal life.
Joining ABHS as an original employee in November 2004, Laura has been instrumental in its growth and success over the years. Her dedication and leadership continue to shape Access Behavioral Health into a cornerstone of compassionate care in the community.
For inquiries or collaboration opportunities, you can reach Laura at Laura@accessbhs.com.
Meet Kim Spears, a compassionate and experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) licensed in Idaho and Iowa. Kim’s journey in healthcare began with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Boise State University, followed by a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from Stonybrook University, specializing in psychiatric mental health.
With over 16 years of dedicated service, Kim is certified to provide comprehensive psychiatric care across the lifespan—from 5 years old to beyond 100 years old. She believes in a collaborative approach to treatment, emphasizing the integration of medication management and counseling to achieve optimal outcomes for her clients.
Beyond her professional expertise, Kim enjoys spending time outdoors with her four dogs, finding solace and adventure in hiking and backpacking. Her commitment to holistic well-being extends from her practice to her personal life, reflecting her belief in the therapeutic benefits of an active lifestyle.
Kim Spears is dedicated to supporting her clients’ mental health journeys with empathy, expertise, and a personalized approach tailored to meet each individual’s unique needs.
Lindsey Stenshoel is a Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner recognized by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. Lindsey’s educational journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Boise State University, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude in 2008. She furthered her education with a Master of Science in Nursing from Idaho State University in 2011.
With over a decade of experience in treating chronic and persistent mental illness across diverse community settings and patient populations, Lindsey brings a wealth of expertise to her practice. Her approach to patient care is characterized by comprehensive, compassionate, and patient-centered care. She is dedicated to empowering her clients to make informed decisions about their treatment through health education.
An Idaho native, Lindsey finds solace and joy in outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing, as well as cherishing moments with her family. Traveling holds a special place in her heart, serving as both her foremost indulgence and greatest passion.
Lindsey welcomes patients aged 18 and above, offering her expertise and support to individuals seeking mental health care. Since May 2011, she has been a valued member of Access Behavioral Health Services, where she continues to make a positive impact on the lives of her patients.
Kaitlyn Taylor is the dedicated CBRS/CM Supervisor at Access Behavioral Health, bringing her expertise since 2020. In her role, she supervises CBRS/CM staff, providing crucial support during crisis situations and assisting them in learning skills training interventions and community resources for effective community engagement.
Outside of work, Kaitlyn finds comfort in the simple pleasures of life. She is an avid reader, finding inspiration within the pages of a good book. When not immersed in literature, she enjoys immersing herself in the captivating worlds of video games. Kaitlyn’s heart is also devoted to her furry companions, as she cherishes spending quality time with her dogs.
With a Bachelor’s degree and a passion for helping others, Kaitlyn embodies the values of Access Behavioral Health, continuously striving to make a positive impact within the community.
For inquiries or assistance, please contact Ashley at kaitlynt@accessbhs.com.
Ashley Walker serves as the CBRS/CM Supervisor at Access Behavioral Health, where she plays a pivotal role in overseeing and supporting employees who provide direct Community-Based Case Management and Community Based Rehabilitation Services. With her dedication to excellence and strong leadership skills, Ashley ensures the highest quality of care for clients by conducting quality assurance checks, facilitating treatment plan development and reviews, and obtaining prior authorizations for client services.
Outside of her professional duties, Ashley finds joy in spending time with her family and engaging in outdoor activities like camping. She also has a passion for music and enjoys listening to various genres in her free time.
Ashley holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, which enriches her understanding of human behavior and enhances her ability to support clients effectively. Since joining Access Behavioral Health in 2015, Ashley has been a valuable asset to the team, consistently demonstrating her commitment to providing exceptional care and support to both clients and staff.
For inquiries or assistance, please contact Ashley at ashleyw@accessbhs.com.
Meet Christina Walker, a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) with over twenty years of dedicated experience in social work. Christina’s passion lies in supporting individuals who have experienced trauma, particularly victims of child abuse, sexual assault, and domestic violence. Throughout her career, Christina has been a beacon of strength and hope for her clients, guiding them towards healing and empowerment.
Committed to staying current in her field, Christina actively participates in continuing education, including recent training as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. This dedication ensures she can provide her clients with the most effective and up-to-date therapeutic interventions.
At the heart of Christina’s practice is her belief in the inherent worth and resilience of every individual. She strives to empower her clients to embrace their strengths and lead fulfilling lives, free from the constraints of their past traumas. With compassion and unwavering support, Christina works collaboratively with her clients to achieve their mental and behavioral health goals.
Outside of her counseling practice, Christina is a lifelong advocate for animals, children, and families. She has dedicated her life to advocating for those who cannot advocate for themselves, embodying her commitment to making the world a better place for all.
Since 2022, Christina has been an integral part of Access Behavioral Health Services in Nampa, where she continues to make a profound impact on the lives of those she serves.
My favorite things to do are camping, reading, fishing, and hanging out with my Husband and two daughters. I love exploring all the outdoor beauty that Idaho has to offer. But I am not a fan of the
Sarah Wiechmann is the dedicated manager of the Substance Use Disorder Services (SUDS) department at Access Behavioral Health. With a strong commitment to supporting individuals on their journey to recovery, Sarah oversees and coordinates the operations of the SUDS department with compassion and expertise.
Outside of work, Sarah enjoys video games, music, spending time with her cats, and diving into books that broaden her perspectives.
Sarah has been an integral part of Access Behavioral Health since 2015, contributing her knowledge and dedication to enhancing the quality of substance use disorder services provided.
For inquiries related to SUDS or to connect with Sarah, you can reach her at sarahs@accessbhs.com.
Nikki Tangen has lived in the Boise area for her entire adult life, and most of her childhood. She graduated from BSU with a degree in Special Education with endorsements in working with children with mild, moderate and severe disabilities. Nikki began working with children with disabilities in 1995. Her goal in life is creating a community where people with disabilities can live happy, fulfilling lives in their own homes. This is both a professional and personal goal as she is a volunteer guardian for a young woman who struggles with both developmental and mental health disabilities. After working many years for different private agencies and The Federation of Families, she opened a behavioral health clinic with her business partner, Laura, to create a work environment for both her employees and patients to flourish to their full potential. When not at work, Nikki is raising her two boys, eight chickens, honey bees, dogs and cats. Nikki was a foster parent for the State of Idaho for many years and although she no longer is a foster parent she continues to work with at-risk children in her home. When Nikki is not running around to music and swim lessons she enjoys our Boise community and will often be found attending local events and enjoying our amazing outdoor recreation areas.