OUR TEAM

Executive Team

Jon Dower of WVSL
JON DOWER ICADC, CCS, CIP, SAP | Executive Director

Jon Dower was born and raised in Morgantown, WV, and completed a master’s degree in clinical rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling from West Virginia University. Mr. Dower holds several addiction-related certifications, including alcohol and drug counselor, clinical supervisor, substance abuse professional, and intervention professional. Additionally, he is a nationally certified counselor and certified rehabilitation counselor. Jon serves as the Executive Director for West Virginia Sober Living. Mr. Dower is also the Director of Recovery Services for Ascension Recovery Services, an organization that provides turn-key substance use disorder treatment center development and direct SUD services to individuals and families. Mr. Dower is an adjunct professor at WVU teaching in the College of Applied Human Sciences. He serves on several SUD-related organizations’ boards of directors, including the Governor’s task force on Substance Misuse and Prevention as the Chair of the Recovery Subcommittee. Jon is a person in long-term recovery.

Dan McCawley of WVSL
DAN MCCAWLEY | Director of Operations

Dan is a West Virginia native and a person in long-term recovery. He is an internationally certified peer recovery support specialist and certified interventionist, giving him a well-rounded perspective on substance use disorder care. Dan is a founding board member of the National Peer Recovery Alliance (NPRA) and sits on the Central Appalachian Peer Partnership (CAPP) Advisory Council for the Studies to Advance Recovery Support (STARS) Network. He brings decades of operational management to the team and enjoys the challenges of various operations. Dan is a leader in the peer community in WV and nationwide. His insight into best practices in peer recovery has led him to develop peer recovery training for continuing education in West Virginia and beyond.

ANNE CHRISTOPHER, CPA | Controller

Anne graduated from West Virginia University with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and is a licensed CPA. Anne is a career accountant with a foundation in public accounting and extensive experience in private-industry, owner-managed businesses. Anne worked extensively with WVSL over the past four years through a management agreement and has considerable knowledge of and experience with managing multiple grants. Anne joined the WVSL team full-time in April 2022 so that she could focus all of her efforts on WVSL. .

WVSLS Housing

KRISTA WHITE | Director of Recovery Housing & Intern Coordinator

Krista was raised in Cowen, WV and is currently a student at West Virginia University. Ms. White serves as our Director of Recovery Housing & Intern Coordinator, and Charleston staff manager. She is the mother to her daughter Brittany, and now a grandmother. Krista managed a 16-bed halfway house, and a 10 apartment complex women and children’s residence in Charleston WV, for women struggling with substance use disorders. She is now a certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist, certified naloxone trainer, is active in her recovery community, and participates in various initiatives to improve substance use disorder services across our state. Krista is also a person in long term recovery

ERIK LINK | House Manager

Erik is a dedicated Recovery House Manager committed to providing a supportive and nurturing environment for individuals on their journey to recovery.

JEFF ANCELL | House Manager

Jeff serves as a caring Recovery House Manager, offering guidance and encouragement to individuals striving for lasting health and wellness.

CAROLINE SMITH | House Manager

Caroline is a compassionate Recovery House Manager focused on fostering a safe and empowering space for program participants to achieve their recovery goals.

AMBER ARNETT | House Manager

Amber is a devoted Recovery House Manager dedicated to assisting program participants in building the skills and confidence needed for a successful recovery journey.

Police & Peers

TRAVIS TEETS | Police & Peers Coordinator

Travis was born and raised in West Virginia. He has a background in the construction and electrical trades, spanning many years. As a person in long-term recovery, Travis was inspired to give back to the community by entering into Peer Recovery Support. He is currently a part of the new Police and Peers program in WV and is involved in various other recovery support initiatives. Travis is also an active member of the local recovery community and deeply values his life in recovery. He states, “Experiencing life now, I want to help others like me find a better life.”

TYSON KINCAID | Peer Recovery Support Specialist

Tyson Kincaid, a West Virginia native, is a certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist with a strong commitment to the field. With several years of experience, Tyson has amassed a wealth of resources from across the state, enhancing his ability to provide comprehensive support to individuals on their recovery journeys. He stands as a prominent leader in the community, renowned for his adeptness in organizing and spearheading outreach events that foster positive change within the community. Tyson’s dedication and expertise make him an integral part of our team, where he continues to impact the lives of those seeking recovery support.

TREVOR WHITE | Peer Recovery Coach

Trevor White is a recovery coach for the Police and Peers Program based in Nitro and St. Albans in Kanawha County, WV. With a strong background in peer mentoring and management, he brings empathy, compassion, and dedication to his work. He is deeply committed to meeting people right where they are at and his passion for helping people who suffer from Substance Use Disorder is evident in his unwavering dedication. Beyond his professional life, Trevor White enjoys his family, sports, and the outdoors, demonstrating his multifaceted nature. Trevor is passionate about spreading love and kindness and making sure everyone knows they are not alone, ever again.

ALLEN YOUNG | Sober Living House Manager/Peer Recovery Support Specialist

Allen Young is the house manager of mens recovery residents in Morgantown, West Virginia. Allen is a person in long-term recovery and a certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist. He is extremely passionate about helping others achieve long-term recovery and overall health and wellness. In his spare time, you can find Allen building models, watching the Cleveland Browns, or spending time with his family.

WVSLS Health

BAILEY CARPENTER | Administrative Assistant

Bailey is an Administrative Assistant based in Morgantown and a person in long-term recovery. Well-known in the Morgantown Recovery Community, she finds fulfillment in service work and aiding others. Overcoming numerous obstacles in her life fuels her passion to help others lead fulfilling lives. Currently collaborating with WVSL Behavioral Health, Bailey extends support to community members in need of Behavioral Health resources. Beyond her professional commitments, Bailey cherishes moments with family and friends in the recovery community. Recovery serves as the cornerstone of her life, propelling her to empower others towards success.

Sina King-Smith, MS, NCC, RDN, LD | Clinical Therapist

Sina, whose journey from the serene landscapes of rural Appalachia to pinnacle academic achievements is genuinely inspiring. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Dietetics and Master’s degree in Exercise Physiology from the University of Akron, plus additional Master’s in Nutritional and Food Science and Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling from West Virginia University, Sina has cultivated a wealth of knowledge. More than a holder of numerous degrees, she melds empathy and expertise in her role as a certified intuitive eating counselor and nationally certified counselor, navigating through intricate matters like eating disorders and body image concerns. In the academic sphere, Sina contributes as an adjunct instructor at WVU and Fairmont State University, shaping the future professionals of the discipline.

CHRIS ARTHURS | Mental Health Counselor

Chris Arthurs was born and raised in Morgantown, West Virginia; he holds a master’s degree in Clinical
Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling from West Virginia University. Chris has years of
experience working with individuals with substance use disorder and co-occurring mental health
conditions. He focuses on working with vulnerable, marginalized, and stigmatized populations regardless
of their socioeconomic status. Additionally, Chris has completed education on substance use disorder and
is pursuing advanced alcohol and drug counselor certification. Mr. Arthurs’s goals include becoming an
impactful advocate for the recovery movement. Chris has training in multiple modalities, including
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational
Interviewing, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Solution Focused Brief Interventions (SFBI).
Chris also identifies as a person in long-term recovery.

PEERS Managers & Supervisors

TEISHA PRIM | PEERS Supervisor

Teisha is a Morgantown native and well known in the local recovery community. Teisha has overcome many obstacles in her life. Today she is a certified PRSS, an incredibly hard worker, and an even better mother. She is active in the local recovery community and has a passion and talent for helping those struggling with SUD. Teisha is currently working in a residential treatment facility, helping women navigate their journeys in recovery. She has worked with the Mon County Quick Response Team and engaged herself in outreach at local community centers.

ELIZABETH FARR | PEERS Supervisor

Elizabeth Farr is from Lester, WV, and a person in long term recovery. She was our first program participant in Charleston & now works with us as a Recovery Coach in our Charleston location. She is currently working towards her Peer Recovery Support Specialist certification. She is deeply passionate about helping persons experiencing homelessness and substance use disorder. She enjoys spending time with her mom, brother, sister-in-law, niece, and uncle. She is active in the local recovery community and is a wonderful example of all the gifts recovery can give.

Craig Harsh of WVSL
CRAIG HARSH | PEERS Manager

Craig is a Morgantown, WV native and person in long-term recovery. He is a certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist (PRSS). Craig brings with him experience from a variety of jobs, from customer service and hospitality, to providing care for people with developmental disorders and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). He was an active volunteer at a local drop-in center and has been an active participant in community engagement events both in his personal time and at work. When he is not working, he spends his time working on his own recovery, exploring and expanding his music collection, and hunting his next favorite cup of coffee.

ASHLEY MCELWEE | PEERS Manager

A Colorado transplant, Ashley has been a Charleston, WV resident for three years. She is a person in long-term recovery from SUD and has been working in the field as a Peer Recovery Support Specialist. Ashley is a graduate of the WVSL Housing program. She enjoys hiking, kayaking, music, and exploring WV. Ashley considers WV her adopted home and loves giving back to the recovery community that saved her life.

Peer Recovery

KELLY MULLINS | Lead Peer Recovery Support Specialist

Meet Kelly, who has transitioned from Huntington to making meaningful strides in Charleston, WV. As one of the Lead Peer Recovery Support Specialists for WVSLS, she is a quiet powerhouse in our Charleston office. Her own journey through long-term recovery hasn’t just shaped her; it’s turned her into a devoted advocate for those experiencing Substance Use Disorder (SUD). Kelly blends a genuine spirit of gratitude for her present life with a dedicated role in our team, contributing to the collective impact we strive for at WVSLS.

BRYANNA HODGE | Peer Recovery Support Specialist

Bryanna is a West Virginia native who was raised in Fayette County; she moved to Kanawha County in 2021 to start her recovery journey and has since become a Peer Recovery Coach working to get her PRSS State certification.

GREGORY HOLCOMB | Peer Recovery Support Specialist

Greg is a West Virginia native, wonderful father, and well known in the WV recovery community. He spent some time working in the medical field but decided he wanted a change of scenery and crash landed into the WVSL family. Greg has over a decade in recovery and much to offer anyone curious about what recovery looks like. He is currently employed as a PRC and works directly with the community, getting to know and willing to help anyone he comes across.

JUSTIN ADAMS | Peer Recovery Support Specialist

Justin Adams is a born and raised West Virginian from the small town of Amandaville and a person in recovery. He is the father of 4 girls and 1 boy. He has a Dual Bachelor of Arts in Pastoral Theology & Bible Doctrine. Through the training he received in the BA Program he is a certified Christian Minister, Social Justice Advocate, Moral Rehabilitation Mentor, and Pastor. He is certified in Hospice Care and is currently a student at Marshall University’s Social Work Program. He is a WV Peers Human Service Worker connecting families in need with healthcare and social services, education, and health materials related to COVID-19 and engaging with families of individuals with substance use disorders to help them along the stages of change. Justin is also a person who has been Justice-Impacted and advocates for other justice-impacted individuals’ successful reentry.

Joe Mytro of WVSL
JOE MYTRO | Peer Recovery Support Specialist

Joe is a certified recovery coach and peer mentor specialist in West Virginia. He graduated from Mountain State University with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. Prior to joining Ascension Recovery Services, Joe worked at a 28-day inpatient treatment facility in West Virginia and has run multiple sober living homes in the state. He is the Men’s Program Director for the West Virginia Sober Living house in Morgantown, West Virginia. He is father to three children, Jonah, Amber and Autumn and grandfather to three young boys, Tatum, Hawkin and Maximus. Joe is also a person in long-term recovery.

SARAH DAVIS | Peer Recovery Coach

Hailing from Fairmont, West Virginia, Sarah is a versatile team member with some college experience and a robust skill set. Her background includes working in the restaurant and hospitality industry and owning a construction company, showcasing her leadership and project management abilities. As a person in long-term recovery, Sarah’s personal journey fuels her dedication to helping others in their recovery journeys. Her unique business acumen and empathy make her an invaluable asset to our team, where she passionately contributes to our mission.

TONYA HELMICK | Peer Recovery Coach

Tonya brings a diverse background to her work, with prior experience in Human Resources, payroll, and Management. A focus on service has always driven her career, and she is eager to apply her skills and determination to support individuals in their recovery journeys. She is active in her recovery community, has worked with the Mon County Quick Response Team, and has engaged in outreach at local community centers. She is currently working on her Peer Recovery Support Specialist certification. Her unwavering perseverance and genuine desire to help others ensure that she will continue to grow and succeed in her mission to make a positive impact.”

WESLEY QUIGLEY | Peer Recovery Coach

Wesley is a Peer Recovery Coach based in Morgantown, WV. With a strong background in the service industry, he brings incredible collaborative skills to his work. He is deeply committed to helping others as well as his personal recovery, and his passion for helping people achieve their goals is evident in his unwavering dedication. Beyond his professional life, Wesley Quigley enjoys live music, traveling, and being outside in nature, demonstrating his multifaceted nature. He believes that helping others is key to his own success.

KENNETH DAWSON | Peer Recovery Coach

Kenneth Dawson is a Peer Recovery Coach based in Morgantown, WV. With a strong background in Customer Service, he brings dedication and relatability to his work. He is deeply committed to overcoming the stigma surrounding substance use disorder, and his passion for the Recovery Community is evident in his unwavering dedication. Beyond his professional life, Kenneth Dawson enjoys time with his daughter, being of service in his recovery community, and strengthening his relationship with God, demonstrating his multifaceted nature.

KEVIN "KJ" BURROWS | Peer Recovery Support Specialist

KJ is a Peer Recovery Support Specialist based in Morgantown. With a strong background in business administration, he brings years of lived experience with SUD to his work. He is deeply committed to advocating for people with SUD, and his passion for helping others is evident in his unwavering dedication. Beyond his professional life, KJ enjoys being an active member of his church, camping, listening to music, and spending time with his wife and children, demonstrating his multifaceted nature. Kj is devoted to helping people with his work on QRT and outreach.

Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation Program

ASHLEY CROUSHON | DCR Coordinator

Ashley is a DCR Coordinator based in Charleston WV. She brings an associate’s degree in human services with a concentration in addictions counseling and is a state-certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist. She is deeply committed to helping others, and her passion for justice-impacted population is evident in her unwavering dedication. Beyond her professional life, Ashley enjoys spending time with her family and friends, watching movies, and Christmas. Ashley has compassion for other people and serves others without judgment.

RUTH TINDAL | Peer Recovery Coach

Ruth Tindal is a DCR – Peer Recovery Coach for SWRJ based in Kanawha County, WV. With a strong customer service and sales background, she brings empathy, compassion, and dedication to her work. She is deeply committed to meeting people where they are and her passion for the justice-impacted population is evident in her unwavering dedication. Beyond her professional life, Ruth Tindal enjoys her family, music, and the outdoors. Ruth is passionate about ensuring everyone knows they are never alone again!

NICHOLE WAZELLE | Peer Recovery Coach

Nichole is a DCR – Peer Recovery Coach based in Charleston, WV. With a strong background in community outreach, she brings empathy, compassion, and perseverance to her work. She is deeply committed to helping others gain resources to help them feel safe, happy, and healthy, and her passion for the justice-impacted population is evident in her unwavering dedication. Beyond her professional life, Nichole enjoys camping with her children, getting involved with her church and fellowship, and demonstrating her multifaceted nature. Nichole’s love for everyone keeps her motivated to empower them to find their best life.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Douglas M. Leech, Ascension Recovery Services

Randy Williams, United Bank

Dr. Zenovy Wowczuk, CMI2

Patrick R. Esposito II, Esq., Spillman Thomas & Battle

Mark J. Nesselroad, Esq., Glenmark Holding