The Advocate Warriors Team
Mikayla Ririe, LPC, NCC, QSUDP
Mental Health Therapist
Clinical Director
CM & TCC Program Director
My name is Mikayla Ririe, and I am the owner and clinical director of Advocate Warriors. I am a passionate person, business owner, mother, partner, a fearless protector, advocator, and mental health provider. I have a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from The University of the Cumberlands. I am currently in a doctoral program in psychology at California Southern University. I hold an LPC license, am NCC certified, a trained substance use provider, am trauma trained, EMDR trained, am crisis intervention certified, and am in training to become an IFS trained therapist. I truly believe that I will never know everything and therefore should do all I can to never stop learning. I use many different theoretical approaches and interventions with my clients. My approach is based in person-centered therapy and incorporates several other approaches and theories depending on the client’s needs. These include art therapy, play therapy, EMDR therapy, attachment, developmental therapy, somatic therapy, DBT, and CBT. I truly believe that therapy is not a one size fits all, but must be adjusted and changed to fit each unique client and circumstance. I enjoy working with children 8 years and older, adults, couples, and families. I feel fortunate to have my own mental health struggles and diagnoses such as autism spectrum disorder and PTSD. From my perspective, I can help, give insight, and education in a personal way because of my own personal struggles which allow me to speak from learned knowledge and my own experience. When I am not working, you can find me spending time with my 8-year-old son who is such a joy. We travel as much as we can, love experiencing new places, food, cultures, and environments. I am a huge fan of museums, art galleries, festivals, concerts, and believe in the healing powers of retail therapy. Life is chaotic, busy, exhausting, colorful, confusing, and vibrant, and I intend to explore every piece of it.
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Kristina Pugh, LCSW
Mental Health Therapist
Clinical Supervisor
My name is Kristina Pugh, but my family and friends call me Kristi. I received my undergraduate degree in human development and family studies, followed by my masters of social work with an emphasis in clinical administration. Both degrees were received at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City. I have a passion for children and families and am excited to continue helping those in our community. I have lived in the treasure valley for 8 years and love paddle boarding and other outdoor activities. Looking forward to seeing how I can help you.
Tawnya Clawson, LMSW
Mental Health Therapist
Hello. My name is Tawnya Clawson. I was born and raised in Boise, Idaho. I received my undergraduate degree in social work from Lewis-Clark State College and my master’s degree in social work from Idaho State University. I was a hairdresser for the first fifteen years of my career and enjoyed connecting with clients through listening to people's stories, worries, fears, joys, and successes. I’ve been in the helping industry for a couple of decades. I have volunteered in community programs through mentorship, volunteering with Boy Scouts of America, in food kitchens, helping in food pantries, and advocating with the LGBTQIA+ population. Recently, I’ve worked with people managing an illness, grief, and loss. I've learned that most want the same things: to be heard, loved, and understood. I enjoy spending time with my family, walking in the Foothills, reading a good book, and traveling. Traveling has given me a profound appreciation for learning and discovering other cultures. I’ve met many kindred spirits along the way.
Ashley Ross, LMSW
Mental Health Therapist
Case Manager & Targeted Care Coordinator
My name is Ashley Ross. I have spent the majority of my life here in Idaho and received my undergraduate degree in Social Work from Lewis-Clark State College. I received my Master's in Social Work from Idaho State University. My experience and passion for serving others began with the homeless community and has grown to include children and families. I believe in leading with genuineness and authenticity, and aim to provide meaningful interactions with those around me. I love working with kids, parents, and adults using a person-centered approach. I also enjoy providing in-school counseling services for high need students in local schools. Aside from being a passionate social worker, I am a mom who loves spending time with my family and being outdoors. Whenever I have the chance you can find me spending the weekend in McCall or traveling for concerts.
Misty Dove, BS
Targeted Care Coordinator & Case Manager, & Community-Based Team Supervisor
Hello, My name is Misty! I hold a BS in both psychology and criminal justice. My dream was to become a behavioral analyst for the FBI, but somewhere along the line that changed. I found my way into community based services during the onset of the pandemic and it has since become my passion to help families involved in these services. I am a parent who has navigated various services in multiple states and I have helped many families through the process. Whether families have been involved in services for years finding themselves stuck and needing an advocate or they are just getting started and it all seems so overwhelming, I have been there and I want to make sure that no one receiving services ever feel alone or without a voice. I try everyday to change the stigma of community based services in the treasure valley by being an ally and advocate to individuals and families while providing a positive experience. My goal is to help individuals and families obtain the services that will help them achieve their goals and thrive. I have an immense amount of experience in a variety of areas that include, but are not limited to severe mental health ailments, substance use and recovery, developmental disabilities, domestic violence survival and with the LGBTQ community. I look forward to being your ally and advocate!
Nicole Childers, BS
Case Manager
I am an Idaho native, married with three wonderful kids, and passionate about making life a little more creative and colorful. I hold a Bachelor's degree in Psychology, which helps me connect with others and understand the human experience on a deeper level. When I’m not working or spending time with my family, you’ll find me diving into DIY projects, decorating cakes, or using power tools to bring my ideas to life.
Riley Hartelius, MA
Community Based Rehabilitation Service Provider
My name is Riley Hartelius. Growing up, I was always taught that doing service for others is an important aspect in one’s life. As such, I enlisted in the Marine Corps and raised to the rank of Sargeant. During that time period, I learned how in-depth mental health impacts the individual’s life. In taking care of those under my command, I learned that even the smallest support can make a huge difference in the grand scheme of things. Upon getting out of the military, I decided to enter the mental health field and work towards becoming a counselor, to be a better support to help individuals become the best version of themselves that they want to be. Upon discharge from the military, I obtained my Bachelor’s degree from Utah State University in Psychology and followed up with getting my Master’s, also in Psychology, from American Military University. Outside of the mental health field, you will find myself working on some aspect of myself. Ranging from working on personal health and enjoying the community and outdoors all the way to model building and painting. From the various ranging skills and interests, I look forward to meeting and supporting you in your growth.
Molly Harmon
Office Administrator
Hello! I’m Molly, and I’m the administrative coordinator here at Advocate warriors. With a deep passion for supporting mental health, I help create an environment where both our clients and our staff can thrive. My role is to ensure that our clients feel comfortable, heard, and taken care of from the moment they reach out to us. I’m dedicated to creating a welcoming and organized space that allows our clinicians to focus on what they do best—helping others. In addition to my work here, I enjoy reading, hiking, and spending time with my family. I believe that personal well-being is key to living a balanced life, which is why I’m passionate about supporting a practice that promotes mental health and healing. Outside of the office, you’ll likely find me wrangling my 3 kiddos, starting my next home improvement project, or listening to a podcast.