Mia Montez is a New Gens peer coach dedicated to helping individuals ages 9-17 who have a loved one struggling with substance use issues. Mia was born and raised in the Corpus Christi area before moving to San Antonio in 2019. She graduated from Texas A&M University- Kingsville in 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, followed by a Master of Arts in Counseling from Our Lady of the Lake University in 2023.

Growing up with an alcoholic parent was difficult, especially because Mia lived in an area with little to no resources for children of alcoholics. “The group my parents found for my sister and I did not provide a positive or uplifting experience. Rise, on the other hand, is an amazing program where these kids are provided with social activities and compassionate staff.” Mia’s hope is that by working here at Rise, she can help provide what is lacking for so many young people whose loved ones are struggling, someone who will actively listen to their thoughts and feelings.

In her free time Mia enjoys reading, attending concerts, watching NFL games and spending time with her husband and their dogs, Lillie and Octavius.