About Our Staff

Carrie Wright

LCSW

Are you having a difficult time identifying the positive aspects of your life? Does there seem to be too many things weighing you down? Life does not always seem to give back what we are putting into it, making the pursuit to happiness feel daunting and unachievable at times. Whether you are in chronic pain or turning to substances to fulfill an emptiness that you may be feeling as a result of past trauma, my personal goal is to help empower you to make the choices in your life that lead to optimal mental wellness. There is hope, and I would love to help you explore how to best navigate your journey in getting there.

Each therapy session will be personalized to meet your needs and will be guided by a therapist who understands the complexities of the healing process. Modalities such as DBT for skill development, CBT to identify any irrational thinking patterns that may need to be addressed, EMDR, and Prolonged Exposure to work through reducing the impact of trauma and grief are just some of the specialties that I work within. 

Allowing for an open and safe place to feel supported and heard is my goal for each one of you. My job is to build a trusting relationship that you can feel comfortable coming back to whenever life becomes difficult. My specialties are aimed at teens and adults who are experiencing trauma, relationship concerns, addictions, anxiety, or depression.

Carrie is a licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with adolescents and adults struggling with mental health, substance use, behavioral issues, and trauma. She graduated from Idaho State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work (2014) and shortly after, achieved her Master’s degree at Northwest Nazarene University. Mrs. Wright is dually trained in substance use and mental health and is extremely passionate about these areas. Her goal is to help others gain hope in their current situation by focusing on the client’s strengths and skill-building.

I have been trained and practice most of my therapy in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), 7 Challenges, Prolonged Exposure Therapy, Trauma Recovery and Empowerment, Imago Therapy (couples), and EMDR therapy modalities. My experience as an intern began when I was hired to work with Bonneville County Drug Court, where I was employed for 3 years, assisting families with creating healthy family dynamics and communication while providing a safe place for adolescents to explore their lives. I have since this time expanded my knowledge and enjoy helping clients overcome all types of challenges.

Carrie opened Wright Step Counseling and Recovery in 2019. When she is not at work, she enjoys spending time with her family on camping trips, vacations, and playing with her grandchildren. 

Lynda Armstrong

LMSW

Kristie Spencer

LMSW

I know life can be hard at times, and having someone to share those concerns and struggles with can ease that burden. I also know it can be hard to take that first step toward reaching your mental health goals. You are important and deserve self-care. I can be that cheerleader to help. You realize how strong and capable you truly are. Together we can help you navigate your mental health journey to unlock a stronger healthier you.

License and Credentials:

Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW

Professional Affiliations:

I am affiliated with the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB)

Experience:

I have experience working with individuals with Anxiety, Depression, Substance Use Disorders, and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. At my bachelor's level, I was able to work with elementary-aged children in the school setting. As a master's level intern, I have been able to work with young children and adults.

Education:

Attended Idaho State University, Master of Social Work, Graduated 2025.

Areas of Interest:

I enjoy working with children and adults of all ages. I have a particular interest in helping those who struggle with anxiety. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Person-Centered Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).

About Me:

When I am not working I enjoy spending as much time as I can with my family. I enjoy fishing, hunting, gardening, and doing the occasional paint by numbers. After all, it is important to spend time doing things that you love.

Sarah Lupinski

LPC

Welcome! My name is Sarah Lupinski, and I am a dedicated LPC here at Wright Step Counseling & Recovery. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with honors from California Baptist University and a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University.

My counseling approach is rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which I use to help adolescents and adults navigate life's challenges, build resilience, and develop meaningful change. I am passionate about creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive space for all clients.

Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, identity exploration, or life transitions, I strive to walk alongside you with compassion and care. My goal is to empower you as you navigate your healing journey.

When I am not counseling, I enjoy reading, baking (and eating) all types of bread, spending time with family, and relaxing with my three (yes, three!) Ragdoll cats named Charlie, Link, and Zelda.

Nicole Hansen

LMSW

Nicole Hansen is a Licensed Social Worker at Wright Step Counseling & Recovery, where she supports individuals and families through compassionate, strengths-based care. She has recently completed her master's degree in social work and is working toward clinical licensure.

Nicole enjoys working with individuals experiencing a wide range of life challenges and transitions. She has specific experience supporting LGBTQ+ adolescents and their families, including helping clients navigate the intersection of faith and affirmation. Nicole brings a thoughtful, relational approach to her work and is committed to creating a safe, respectful space where clients feel heard, supported, and empowered.

Outside of her clinical work, Nicole enjoys outdoor adventures with her husband and three boys and spending time on creative, quirky art projects, including a brief stint as a prop master in the film industry. Nicole is grateful for the opportunity to continue learning and growing as a clinician at Wright Step Counseling & Recovery.

Trisha Hall

LPC

As a mental health counselor, I help people manage emotional challenges like anxiety, stress, and trauma. I provide a safe space to explore feelings, develop coping strategies, and work toward healthier, more fulfilling lives.

Credentials:

Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC

National Certified Counselor, NCC

My Philosophy:

I believe therapy is most effective when it treats the whole person, not just symptoms. My approach is person-centered, meaning you are the expert of your own life. We work in a partnership where your unique experiences and goals lead the way. I take a holistic view of wellness, acknowledging how mental, emotional, and physical health are deeply interconnected.

My Clinical Approach:

While our relationship is the foundation, I provide tangible tools for life's challenges. My practice is trauma-informed, prioritizing your safety and empowerment. I primarily integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to reshape unhelpful thought patterns and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to build skills in emotional regulation and mindfulness.

Experience and Education:

I earned my Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of the Cumberlands. My training focused on evidence-based treatment for diverse populations, and I have experience supporting individuals through anxiety, depression, and substance use disorder, as well as the unique nuances of mixed-faith relationships.

Beyond the Office:

Outside the office, I stay grounded by spending time with my family, traveling, tending to my garden, or lounging in my hammock. I believe we all function best when we make room for what brings us joy, and I strive to bring that same authenticity into every session.

Wyatt Seal

LPC

My name is Wyatt Seal, and I believe that every person has a story and perspective worth understanding. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life's challenges, discover their strengths, and create meaningful change. Whether you are facing anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, addiction, life transitions, or simply feeling stuck, I strive to provide a space where you feel heard, supported, and respected. 

I earned my bachelor's degree in Psychology from Utah Valley University and my master's degree in Counseling from Idaho State University. Throughout my training and professional experience, I have had the opportunity to work with individuals struggling with substance use disorders, anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and other mental health concerns. These experiences have deepened my appreciation for the resilience people possess and reinforced my belief that meaningful change is possible, even during life's most difficult seasons. 

My approach to counseling is built on genuine connection, compassion, and collaboration. I view therapy as a team effort where we work together to better understand your experiences, identify your goals, and develop practical tools to help you move forward. I believe meaningful growth happens when people feel safe enough to be themselves and courageous enough to pursue change. 

Outside of counseling, I enjoy spending time outdoors, running, learning about history, and being with family and friends. These experiences help me stay grounded and remind me of the importance of balance, connection, and purpose in our lives. 

Seeking support can be a difficult step, and I consider it a privilege to walk alongside people during that process. I look forward to the opportunity to get to know you and support you on your journey.

Robyn Sloan

Billing Specialist

Robyn serves as the Billing Specialist at Wright Step Counseling and Recovery, where her responsibilities include handling insurance billing, client statements, staff credentialing, and providing additional office support wherever it's needed.

Originally from Indiana, Robyn is a proud mother of six children and two grandchildren. She earned her Associate degree in Health Examination in 2005. Robyn and her husband Sean share a connection through their shared love of road trips, movies, and popcorn. In 2022, she made the move to Idaho, where she currently resides with her husband and youngest son.

Katie Ramos

Receptionist

Katie is our front receptionist, and her responsibilities include welcoming clients, managing phone inquiries, assisting with scheduling, and providing support wherever it's needed. She moved to Idaho Falls from Salt Lake City and began her employment with Wright Step Counseling and Recovery in October of 2023. Katie has a bachelor's degree in business administration and is a mother to her 2-year-old Yorkie, Jax. During her leisure moments, she enjoys working out and listening to music. Feel free to drop by and extend your greetings!

Kira Young

Receptionist

Kira was raised in Eastern Idaho, receiving an Associate's degree in Business Marketing in 2007. She has made customer service her professional passion. Her responsibilities include scheduling, welcoming clients, assisting with billing, answering phone calls, and providing support where needed. When not at work, Kira enjoys being outdoors, painting, playing video games, and spending time with her family. 

Jade Jardine

CBRS Worker

Meet Jade, Wright Step Counseling and Recovery’s CBRS worker. Jade is native to Idaho and has recently received her bachelor's degree in psychology. She will be working towards a master’s degree soon. She actively assists and supports as many individuals as possible through her community service role in the agency. Jade is passionate about working with children and anyone in the LGBTQ+ community and loves to help people build skills to interact with their world. She has 13 years of experience playing the guitar and writing music and is also a proud cat parent of two furry companions. Jade is also a part-time receptionist here at Wright Step Counseling and you may catch her answering the phone now and then!

Sarah Smith

Peer Support Specialist

My name is Sarah Smith and I work with Wright Step Counseling and Recovery as a Peer Support Specialist.

As your Peer Support Specialist, I will actively share my personal recovery journey with you. My objective is to assist you in identifying potential opportunities to sustain your recovery in your daily life. Together, we can cultivate the empowerment necessary to achieve your objectives through the activities you select during our sessions.

Driven by a genuine passion for making a positive impact within our community, I am committed to reminding others of their inherent strengths and capabilities, enabling them to attain their unique goals. I actively engage in efforts to uplift those around me, creating environments where individuals feel supported and empowered. Through personal interactions and community involvement, I strive to establish robust and compassionate connections that foster personal growth and instill a sense of positivity throughout our community.

In November 2024, I obtained my Peer Support Certification from Case Managers and Mental Health Counselors of Idaho. I am confident that this certification, coupled with my personal experiences, will provide you with the support you need to continue your recovery journey.