Wolfeboro resident joins White Horse Recovery leadership team

OSSIPEE — White Horse Recovery has announced the hiring of Mara Michno as clinical administrator, continuing the organization's practice of building teams that combine professional expertise with lived experience in recovery.

“We are thrilled to welcome Mara to the team," said White Horse Executive Director Matthew Plache. "She brings extensive nonprofit leadership, a deep understanding of mental health prevention, and personal insight into recovery — she exemplifies our mission to foster hope and healing through compassionate care."

Michno brings over a decade of nonprofit experience to her new role, including more than 10 years at Kingswood Youth Center, where she helped develop prevention programs focused on youth mental health. She also served as an educator at an alternative high school in Alaska, specializing in credit recovery programs for at-risk students.

A native of Alaska who moved to Wolfeboro 12 years ago, she had collaborated with White Horse for 10 years through her previous nonprofit work before joining the organization. She also recently celebrated five years in recovery from alcohol addiction.

"It's inspiring working with other people in recovery," said Michno, who lives in Wolfeboro where she, her husband, and their kids are active members in the community. "Seeing other people making strides and being successful brings to light that addiction can affect everybody, from any walk of life ... We're humans who struggle and can help each other."

In her role, Michno coordinates administrative aspects of treatment programs while maintaining direct interaction with clients and peer support services. She plans to pursue certification as a Certified Recovery Support Worker, following the example of other employees who have advanced their credentials while working at White Horse.

According to Plache, Michno's background represents the organization's approach to building effective recovery support teams.

"Our organizational development recognizes that the best outcomes happen when we create opportunities for people to grow professionally while contributing their unique perspectives and experiences," he said.

According to Michno, she was drawn to White Horse because of its reputation and mission-driven approach.

"I've always been interested in mental health care, and when Matthew told me the possibilities are endless here, that really resonated with me," she explained.

Looking ahead, she said she is excited about the potential for professional growth while contributing to the organization's clinical mission. "I'm seeing colleagues advance their certifications and take on new roles,” she noted. “Pieces are falling together in my mind about what's possible in the mental health and recovery field."

Founded in 2014 during New Hampshire's peak fentanyl crisis, White Horse operates four of the state's 20 Recovery Community Centers and employs licensed mental health counselors, drug and alcohol counselors, and Certified Recovery Support Workers. To learn more or support White Horse Recovery, visit whitehorserecovery.org.