Ronto Roney is the Director of Behavioral Health for Maniilaq Association. Based out of Kotzebue, Ronto loves rural Alaska and being on the front line of the Tundra.  Starting as a therapist for Maniilaq, his passion for helping others and supporting his peers guided him into the Lead Substance Counselor role, and then the Substance Treatment Supervisor where he earned the BHA “outstanding Supervisor” award.  Traveling throughout every village in the Northwest Arctic, his hands-on approach directly supported the communities and gave him increased insight in charting a course for improving Behavioral Health for Rural Alaska.  In his new role as the Director, he dedicates himself to providing essential mental health services to rural Alaskan communities and finds fulfillment in guiding individuals on their recovery journeys, advocating for holistic well-being through therapeutic interventions. “Life in recovery is not easy, but it becomes easier with help, support and community effort.”  In addition, Ronto has become a strong advocate for telehealth services to increase contact and support within remote Alaska.

Ronto’s family is from Michigan and Kentucky, though he grew up in New Jersey. It was there that he discovered his passion for mental health counseling. He completed a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University, specializing in substance use disorder treatment. Ronto worked in rural Colorado for two years before journeying to Alaska in 2019.

He finds fulfillment in guiding individuals on their recovery journeys, advocating for holistic well-being through therapeutic interventions. Beyond his professional commitments, Ronto enjoys fitness, video games, and outdoor recreation, balancing his life with activities that nourish his mind and body.