Mental Health Community Partners
Sam Galan
Hi, my name is Sam Galan and I have lived in the Western Treasure Valley for over 40 years and am familiar with the make-up of our joining communities and the struggles faced by our children, teens, and families.
I have always had a passion for serving our communities and was involved with efforts of opening the doors of Boys and Girls Club of the Western Treasure Valley from 2006 to 2011, as well as serving as a Scout Leader with Troop 400 and now as a Mental Health Counselor as graduate from the University of Idaho’s Rehabilitation Counseling and Human Services graduate program. I joined the Lifeways family in 2020 and have served in the role of School Based Mental Health Services since.
Developing partnerships with school officials, counselors, and staff in serving the mental health needs of children and teens attending Ontario schools, from Alameda, Aiken, May Roberts, Ontario Middle and High Schools.
Carmen Hernandez
Hello! My name is Carmen Hernandez, and I am excited to partner with Ontario Middle School as a school-based support professional, working primarily with sixth-grade students. As a first-generation graduate student of Hispanic descent and a dedicated advocate for mental health and well-being, I am passionate about creating a safe and inclusive environment where students feel supported as they navigate this important stage of their lives. My role is to provide guidance, encouragement, and resources to help students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
I was born in Ontario, Oregon, and raised in Fruitland, Idaho, which makes it especially meaningful for me to serve in this community. I have worked in the mental health field for almost three years, previously serving as the Crisis Dispatch Team Lead for the 24/7 Crisis Program. Currently, I am part of the Early Assessment and Supportive Alliance (EASA) team, supporting individuals experiencing their first episode of psychosis. In addition to my work at Ontario Middle School, I also serve on the Adult Mental Health Outpatient Team. I am in the specialized year of my master’s program at Northwest Nazarene University and will earn my Master of Social Work degree in December 2025. I am excited to collaborate with the amazing staff, students, and families at OMS to foster a positive and supportive learning environment!
Melissa McAughty, QMHP
My mission in counseling is to create a partnership with my clients and provide space for you to feel heard and supported. One of my most important roles as a counselor is to empower and encourage you by identifying your existing strengths, resources, and abilities. My goal is to help clients heal from their past and grow into their best selves. Whether you're facing anxiety, trauma, or relationship issues, I'll support you in finding strategies to overcome them. I consider it an honor and privilege to journey with clients in their quest for living a healthy and meaningful life. My essential philosophy of counseling stems from a Christian worldview, with a belief that every person is valuable, unique, and created with a purpose. My clients have a variety of backgrounds and beliefs. I will always work to understand your story and incorporate your values and beliefs as resources. I am happy to work with clients from any faith background or none at all. I operate from a person-centered approach integrated with other methods, particularly Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
Yolanda Diaz, QMHP
Hello! I'm Yolanda and I'm delighted to have the opportunity to work with you. I recently graduated from George Fox University with a Bachelor of Social Work degree with a minor in social welfare. I’m currently attending Northwest Nazarene University to obtain my Master’s in Social Work. I grew up in the Treasure Valley area and highly value meaningful work by serving my community. I’ve been a Family and Community Health intern for Oregon State University Extension Service in Malheur County for the past four years. I’ve enjoyed delivering various activities that promote healthy eating, physical activity, gardening, and youth development. I’ve also valued the opportunity to intern at Abuse Recovery Ministry Services in Beaverton, OR where I assisted in conducting group intervention for perpetrators and victims of domestic abuse. In addition to serving others, I enjoy bike rides, watching sunsets, playing the piano, and baking. During our time together, I desire to create a comfortable environment where you feel heard and seen. We will identify your strengths and I’ll empower you to utilize them as you navigate this season of life. My goal is to provide authentic, non-judgemental, and empathic care. I strongly believe in your ability to become the best version of yourself and reach the goals you set for yourself. I’m proud of you for seeking to start your healing journey. Our team and I are excited to meet you!
Irene Romero, QMHP
I hold a Bachelor’s degree from Boise State University and am currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health and Addictions from Northwest Nazarene University. I am also a 2024-2025 Council of Social Work Education Minority Fellowship Program fellow. I have a strong commitment to supporting mental wellness and bring a person-centered approach to my practice, ensuring that each individual's unique needs and strengths are at the forefront of our work together. I am fluent in Spanish, which allows me to effectively serve the Spanish-speaking community.
Tengo una licenciatura de la Universidad de Boise State y actualmente estoy estudiando en la Universidad de Northwest Nazarene para obtener una maestría en servicios clinicos de Salud Mental y Adicciones. También fui seleccionada para el programa de becas por minorias para el período 2024-2025. Tengo un mision fuerte de enfocarme en las necesidades y fortalezas de cada persona con un enfoque centrado en la persona. Hablo español, lo que me ayuda a conectar mejor con la comunidad hispanohablante.