Staff
About Me:
With over 25 years of experience in the field of addiction treatment and behavioral health, I bring a deep commitment to working with individuals involved in the criminal justice system, veterans, and first responders. I began my work in 1995, specializing in substance abuse treatment under the Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) credential, and later pursued higher education, earning my BA and Master’s in Social Work. I became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in 2022.
Throughout my career, I have provided services through both private practice and public agencies, focusing on substance use disorders, mental health, trauma, and justice-involved populations. As a disabled veteran and someone in long-term recovery with over 22 years of sobriety, I offer a unique and deeply personal understanding of the change process. I am a recipient of five pardons from the state of Idaho and have turned my lived experience as a recovering addict and ex-offender into a powerful tool for connection and transformation.
In recent years, I’ve expanded my focus to include specialized work with veterans and first responders. I serve as the lead clinician on a Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) team, providing debriefings and individual clinical follow-up after critical incidents. This role is especially meaningful to me, as I view it as a way of giving back to the very professionals who supported me in my own recovery.

I am known for my authenticity, no-nonsense approach, and ability to confront denial and resistance directly—skills honed from a lifetime of personal and professional experience. My passion lies in guiding individuals toward lasting change and supporting their evolution into prosocial, empowered members of society.
Stephanie Taylor
Foundations of Recovery House Director
Certified Peer Recovery Coach

About Me:
Stephanie Taylor serves as the Foundations of Recovery Safe and Sober Housing Director for Cognitive Restructuring, LLC, where she brings dedication, empathy, and leadership to her work supporting individuals on their path to recovery. As a recovered alcoholic herself, Stephanie is deeply passionate about helping others rebuild their lives with structure, accountability, and compassion.
With firsthand experience and a strong commitment to sober living, she plays a vital role in fostering safe, supportive environments for those transitioning into a healthier, substance-free lifestyle. Her approach blends professional oversight with personal understanding, making her an invaluable resource in the recovery community.
Outside of her professional work, Stephanie has owned and operated a cake bakery since 2013, where her creativity and entrepreneurial spirit shine. In her free time, she enjoys riding motorcycles, traveling with friends, four-wheeling, camping, and shooting. Most importantly, she cherishes spending quality time with her husband, children, grandchildren, and extended family—whether it’s on a motorcycle ride, exploring new places, or simply being together. Wherever she is, you’ll find her living life fully, gratefully, and with purpose.
About Me:
I am currently a Licensed Professional Counselor treating both mental health and addiction. I have spent years working with many different community populations at local, state, and federal levels. I received my Bachelor's degree in Psychology in Aug 2007, I completed my Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in December 2020 and am currently working on my Doctorate degree in Counselor Education and Supervision. Since getting my Master's degree, I have expanded my client population to include mental health counseling along with my SUD clients. I also work with domestic violence victims and perpetrators. I completed EMDR training May of 2022 and can now offer this specified trauma counseling. I am a mother of three kids. I enjoy traveling, camping, ATV riding and spending time with friends and family.
Tami Smith CADC, MFT
Clinician

About Me:
Tami joined Cognitive Restructuring 3 years ago in February after working at another agency for over 20 years as a certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor, Family Therapy and Program Director of an Adolescent inpatient treatment in New York. She completed her undergraduate with an Associate Degree in Chemical Dependency, a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and a Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2014. She continues to work with families, adolescents and adults in addiction and mental health. Outside of work Tami and her husband of 43 years have three adult children, six grandchildren, two dogs and two cats. Tami enjoys reading, painting and a variety of crafts. She loves spending time with her family. Since being in Idaho, she has been exploring Idaho.
About Me:
Tamara is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who holds a Master’s degree from Idaho State University, focusing on clinical practice and dual diagnosis. She specializes in Substance Use Disorders and Trauma Focused Mental Health. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Social Work (BSW) from Portland State University and an Associate of Applied Science degree in Mental Health and Human Services from Mt. Hood Community College. She has worked in the Behavioral Health field since 2013.
Tamara is passionate about adventure, the outdoors, and making a positive impact in the lives of others. She finds joy in exploring creative ideas for crafts and fun projects, and she brings a sense of curiosity and enthusiasm to everything she does.

Tamara has additional training in EMDR Therapy and Flash Therapy. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy and treatment modality that enables individuals to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress associated with traumatic memories.
(For more information, please contact our office).
About Me:
After 25 years of extensive "field research" into drug and alcohol use I came to the end of the road so to say. My last drunk was Saint Patrick’s day back in 2001. I was sick and tired of being sick and tired and have not had a drink since. I've had some incredible experiences in sobriety, including in re-enrolling in college at the age of 50! I am currently a SUDA and working on my Bachelor’s in Social Work. Recovery has given me a wonderful life. I am an avid fly fisherman and fly tyer with a passion for the outdoors. I love camping on the weekends (or anytime really) and have an outfitted Toyota Tacoma, with a rooftop tent and complete kitchen set up ready to roll at any given moment. I am active in my recovery and believe that recovery is best lived out loud.
Katina Dunn
Certified Peer Recovery Coach

About Me:
Katina Dunn is a Certified Peer Recovery Coach at Cognitive Restructuring, LLC, where she has been making a meaningful impact since joining the team in 2024. With over six years of experience in peer recovery coaching and more than 16 years in recovery herself, Katina brings a deep well of empathy, understanding, and firsthand knowledge to her role.
As someone who has walked the path of recovery, Katina offers a unique perspective and connection that fosters trust and inspires hope. She is passionate about helping others find their own way to healing, providing personalized, nonjudgmental support to individuals in all stages of recovery.
Katina is known for her compassionate presence, strong listening skills, and dedication to walking alongside others as they navigate challenges, build resilience, and reclaim their lives. Her work is rooted in the belief that recovery is possible for everyone—and that no one has to do it alone.
Outside of her work, Katina values quality time with family and friends and continues to grow in her own recovery and professional journey.
About Me:
I began my journey into the recovery journey almost 20 years ago. I worked in the construction field doing drywall for 30 years when my body decided it no longer was up to the task. At the age of 5, I began to reflect on what the next life path for me would look like. I began working at Cognitive Restructuring 2 years doing drug testing and found my interactions with the clients was enjoyable and purposeful. I decided that becoming a Recovery Coach and going back to school to become a Drug and Alcohol Counselor was the next path. I have been working as a Recovery Coach for a year and a half and have not missed doing drywall for one moment. I enjoy being part of the growth journey of our clients as they find freedom in their recovery. In order to balance work and life I spend a great amount of time being with my wife and kids camping, fishing, riding ATVs, working around the family farm and connecting with my chickens. When I need a bigger momentary escape, I spend time saving the world playing "Call of Duty" on my Xbox.
Justin Dechon
Certified Peer Support Specialist

About Me:
Justin is a Certified Peer Support Specialist who brings compassion, authenticity, and personal experience to his role. Having walked his own path of recovery, Justin is deeply committed to supporting others through challenges related to mental health and substance use. He creates a safe, non-judgmental space where individuals feel heard, valued, and empowered in their own healing process. Justin believes that recovery is not only possible—but deeply personal—and is honored to walk alongside those ready to take the next step.
Justin is passionate about anything related to the outdoors, especially ATV riding and camping. He enjoys spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.
About Me:
I joined the Cognitive Restructuring team earlier this year (2025) as a Certified Peer Support Specialist with over two years of experience. I recently graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Community and Public Health, from Idaho State University; and am working on a Substance Use Associate (SUDA) certification that will allow me to work with individuals who struggle with addictions. After earning my SUDA certification, I am pursuing a certification as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor (ADC). I am passionate about the work that I do and feel it is essential to help others find a path to a better life, and successful recovery, with their mental health and addiction which creates a healthy community. When I am not working with others, I enjoy camping, traveling, attending powwow’s, enjoying family time and beading.
Lindsey Swank
Office Manager/Community Health Worker

About Me:
Over the last three years, I have furthered my journey with Cognitive Restructuring to become the Office Manager and a Community Health Worker. As the Office Manager I oversee the daily operations of the front desk and staff to ensure we provide a positive experience for our clients from their first appointment to their last. As a Community Health Worker, I connect clients with the resources they need to better their lives and successfully complete treatment. I love working with our clients and the amazingly supportive team here at Cognitive Restructuring. I have four amazing children and one adorable grandson. I love writing, hiking, karaoke and spending time with my family.
Breanna Gary
Office Specialist

About Me:
I'm Breanna, although most call me Brea. I started at Cognitive Restructuring as a receptionist November of 2024, and I have loved every second of working here. I am in recovery and just celebrated two years of sobriety!! I feel working at Cognitive has helped me connect with people in a way I normally wouldn't outside of work. I am a mommy of 4 kiddos, the oldest one being three years old. I have loved every second of the crazy beautiful chaos my kids present to me on a daily basis. I also enjoy being outdoors, camping, swimming, ATV riding, and making memories with my children.
Patti Kerscher
Administrative Director

About Me:
As the Administrative Director for Cognitive Restructuring, I work to streamline organizational processes and foster a thriving working environment. With over 20 years of progressive experience in administrative management I collaborate with our staff to optimize efficiency, implement successful administrative policies, and ensure seamless day-to-day operations. I enjoy working with our clients to help resolve challenges in their treatment progression outside of the clinical setting. My goal is to provide excellent customer service to our clients and provide a safe and positive environment while attending treatment.