The Advocate Warriors Team
Mikayla Ririe, LPC, NCC, QSUDP, CM
Mental Health Therapist
Clinical Director
Community-Based Programs 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.
Bret Callinan, LCSW
Mental Health Therapist
I am a dedicated Clinical Social Worker with a passion for empowering youth and families. Since earning my master’s in social work from the University of Nebraska Omaha in 2017, I have gained diverse experience across outpatient offices, inpatient hospitals, and in-home settings. My work has involved providing intensive family preservation therapy, individual and group counseling, and court-referred services—always with a commitment to achieving positive therapeutic outcomes. Throughout my career, I have collaborated with a range of organizations, from community-based centers to specialized programs, and have successfully worked with high-trauma referrals and innovative pilot programs. My background in communication and liberal arts complements my clinical expertise, allowing me to connect effectively with clients and the broader community. I am committed to making a lasting impact on the lives of those I serve through compassionate, evidence-based care.
Angela Gerritsen, LCSW
Mental Health Therapist
My name is Angela Gerritsen. I earned my master’s degree in social work (MSW) from the University of Utah School of Social Work in 2014, with a concentration in forensic social work. During the past ten years, as a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) I have worked with adolescents, adults, and families who are experiencing critical life adjustments, grief, addiction, complex trauma, severe anxiety, depression, and other complex mental health issues impacting personal, family, and systems in which the client is involved. My training includes evidence-based modalities such as a holistic approach, trauma-informed care, cognitive behavioral, and dialectical behavioral therapy, Gestalt, person-centered, process-oriented, solution-focused, attachment, and psychodynamic psychotherapy. My goal in the therapeutic relationship is for clients to feel connected to their process in a fluid and nonjudgmental space. The center of therapy is learning to develop a flexible mindset about self, others, and the world as they move towards their personal goals. In my personal life, I cherish the time I get to spend with family and my animals.
Misty Dove, BS
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.
Angelee Reynolds, BS
Case Manager
I'm Angelee, born in Idaho, and raised in Tennessee. I earned my bachelor’s degree in psychology from East Tennessee State University, and I'm passionate about working with children and families to ensure they receive the care and support they need. As a case manager, I'm committed to advocating for families and helping them access resources that can make a real impact on their lives. My passion for making a positive impact drives me to work hard for the communities I serve. Outside of my professional life, I use art as a way to express creativity and connect with nature. I find peace and inspiration in creating art, much like I do when I am able to go scuba diving. These activities offer me a sense of balance and help me stay grounded outside of my professional 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.
Rori Mercer, BS
Community Based Rehabilitation Service Provider
Hi I am Rori! I grew up in the Boise area and attended the University of Idaho where I studied early childhood development and education. During my student teaching I worked nights in a community-based role and learned how much I loved working with people outside of the classroom setting! Since then, I have decided to move away from teaching and focus more on ways to support outside of the classroom. I plan to head back to school from my master’s within the next year! Outside of work, I love to be outside hiking, swimming, kayaking, and walking my dog.
Caitlin Strong, BS
Community Based Rehabilitation Service Provider
My Name is Caitlin. I have a bachelor’s degree in Rehabilitation Studies from Weber State University. I chose this degree because I love to help people overcome the challenges that life may have thrown at them. I believe that anyone can achieve what they want to achieve as long as they are willing to work for it. When I’m not at work, I love making music, spending time outside, and learning everything I can.
Kylie LLamas, BS
Community Based Rehabilitation Service Provider
My name is Kylie Llamas. I hold a Bachelor's degree in psychology with a minor in family studies from Boise State University. I've always had a passion for helping and listening to others, and I believe that healing is always possible with the right support and resources. Life may feel turbulent at times, therefore, I am here to support and advocate for all beings. I am very passionate in my endeavors, and this includes assisting others in times of need. Aside from my professional life, I enjoy participating in yoga, as I've found it not only has a healing effect on the body but the mind as well. I believe it brings peace and comfort, regardless of the chaos life may bring. I also enjoy taking care of my kitten, Pearl; she is an angel! I find fulfillment in spending time with family and friends who uplift me, and I strive to uplift others in the same way--regardless of their circumstances or struggles. I strongly value patience, drive, integrity, and compassion. All beings deserve love and kindness, and I strive to provide that for the community!
Kamiel Dove, CPSS & CYPSS
Peer Support Specialist & Office Assistant
Hi! My name is Kamiel! I am a Peer and Youth Peer Support Specialist. I was born and raised in Oregon and moved to Idaho in 2019. I started in this field to become the person I never had growing up, being a youth and young adult struggling with mental health issues, abuse, and self-harm. My goal is to be a safe space and listener for young people to express themselves and assist them in growing into the strong, independent persons they strive to be. In my free time, I enjoy drawing, art, and writing, as well as spoiling my two fur babies.
David (Liam) Ball, CPSS & CYPSS
Peer Support Specialist
Hi, my name is Liam Ball. I was born and raised in Boise, initially aspiring to make a fortune through coding. However, along the way, I realized that this wasn’t my true passion. I came to understand that life wouldn’t feel meaningful to me unless I was helping others. It was my good friend Riley who helped me see that I could achieve this by sharing my experiences with mental health and channeling my desire to make a difference. This brings me to my new goal: to become a world-renowned psychologist. Why is it world-renowned? Because I believe that if you're going to pursue something, you should strive to be the best at it!
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Calypso " Cal " Jay, CPSS & CYPSS
Peer Support Specialist
I am a dedicated peer support specialist with three years of professional experience in the mental health field. Drawing from both my professional background and my lifelong personal experiences, I bring a unique perspective to my work, fostering understanding and empathy in my interactions with others. Known for my caring and compassionate approach, I am committed to empowering individuals on their mental health journeys. I believe in the transformative power of support and connection, and I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment for those I assist. In my free time, I enjoy reading, drawing, and engaging in videogames, With a passion for mental health advocacy, I am dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of those I support.
Holly Chase, CPSS & CYPSS
Peer Support Specialist
I'm Holly, a psychology student at Boise State University with roots in southeastern Idaho. I have a strong background in behavioral health, particularly in family education and child and adolescent challenges. My passion for mental health is deeply personal, shaped by my own journey, and it fuels my compassionate, client-centered approach. I'm committed to supporting others with empathy and understanding. Outside of school, I'm a proud mom who loves hiking, camping, and enjoying the outdoors with my son. I'm excited to continue growing in this field and making a positive impact in my community.
Alex Capilla
Office Manager
Hello! I'm Alex, I am a born and bred Idahaon originally from the Twin Falls area. I have always had a passion for helping others with their mental health struggles and ensuring they know that they are not alone! I have my wonderful wife who I have been with for 7 years now and we are happy parents of a Shiba Inu named Teemo who takes up most of our free time. Outside of work I am usually spending time with my wife, friends, family, and our pet. I enjoy reading, watching movies and anime, playing video games, playing Dungeons and Dragons, and riding/working on my motorcycle!