Springfield Community Mental Health Center

Professional Background

I hold a master’s degree in social work from Aurora University. I am a Licensed Social Worker in the state of Illinois.  I have a background working with women’s mental health, providing compassionate support and community resources.

Role at CMHC

As an Intake Specialist, I serve as the first point of contact for clients seeking services, providing compassionate, organized, and detail-oriented support during the initial stages of care. My role is centered around gathering critical information, assessing client needs, and ensuring a smooth transition into the appropriate services.

What to expect when you meet me

When you meet me, you'll be greeted with a warm smile and a positive attitude. As an extrovert, I love connecting with people and making others feel comfortable and heard. I'm naturally caring, upbeat, and bring a sense of energy and empathy to every conversation.

Why I care about this work

I believe that everyone deserves access to mental health care and to be treated with compassion and respect. Having experienced the impact of mental health struggles firsthand, I know how powerful it is to feel truly heard—and that’s what drives me to support others on their path to healing.

Fun Fact

Thrifting is one of my favorite hobbies because I love discovering unique treasures and giving items a new life. I have a passion for gardening—it’s a relaxing way for me to connect with nature. Most importantly, I cherish spending quality time with my family, which always brings joy and balance to my life.

Ashtyn Freeman, M.S. Forensic Psychology | Clinical Therapist

Education & Licensure

I earned my Master’s degree in Forensic Psychology from Grand Canyon University. While I am not yet licensed, I am actively working toward licensure and continuing to grow professionally through hands-on clinical experience, direct client work, and ongoing training.

Areas of Specialization

My clinical focus includes supporting individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I have a particular interest in working with young adults and those who have been impacted by the justice system or high-stress environments.

Therapeutic Approach

I draw from a trauma-informed, person-centered approach, blending cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based techniques and strengths-based practices. My style is collaborative — I believe therapy should feel like a safe conversation where you’re supported, heard, and challenged in healthy ways — I believe in empowering clients to find clarity, resilience, and self-compassion.

Why I Do This Work

I’ve always believed in the power of being present for someone in their most vulnerable moments. Helping people feel seen, valued, and capable of healing is why I do this work. It’s a privilege to walk alongside clients as they grow through what they go through. Helping others rediscover their strength and self-worth is what drives me.

What Clients Can Expect

Clients can expect a calm, supportive space where they are met with honesty, empathy, and encouragement. I show up as a real person, not just a clinician, and I invite you to do the same. You can expect a space that is supportive, honest, and down-to-earth. I bring warmth, curiosity, and zero judgment into every session, and I’ll always meet you where you are.

Fun Fact

Outside of my clinic work, I enjoy the simple things that keep me grounded — reading a good book, spending time with my family, exploring outdoors, sipping iced coffee, or diving into true crime podcasts. These moments help me recharge and stay present both personally and professionally.

Kelsi Hayes, MA, LPC | Mental Health Specialist

Education & Licensure

I earned my MA in Human Development Counseling with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health from the University of Illinois Springfield in 2024. I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Illinois.

Areas of Specialization

I specialize in working with clients navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, and identity-related stress. I have a particular passion for supporting LGBT+ individuals who are seeking an affirmative and safe space to explore their mental health.

Therapeutic Approach

My approach is rooted in compassion-focused therapy and trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT). I also integrate other evidence-based practices tailored to each client’s unique needs, always with a trauma-informed and person-centered lens.

Why I Do This Work

I became a therapist because I’ve seen firsthand how mental illness affects the people I love. I want to be part of making sure that everyone has access to the support they deserve.

What Clients Can Expect

Clients can expect a warm, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where they feel heard, supported, and empowered. I show up as my authentic self and invite you to do the same.

Fun Fact

When I’m not in session, I’m probably watching reality TV, enjoying a horror movie, or out on a walk listening to a comedy podcast.

Whitley Hofer, MSW, LCSW | Director of Mental Health & Clinical Services

Professional Background

Whitley Hofer is a clinical leader with a passion for building people up and creating systems that serve with both heart and excellence. With a background in community mental health and program development, she’s known for her calm presence, sharp insight, and solution-focused approach. Whether supporting clients or leading operations, Whitley thrives in complexity—analyzing gaps, creating clarity, and helping others rise beyond what they thought possible.

Role at CMHC

As Clinical Director, I work to create a culture rooted in clarity, compassion, and accountability. I oversee clinical operations, support staff development, and ensure services are delivered with intention, integrity, and heart. I’m committed to building strong systems, growing confident & competent teams, and cultivating a workplace where both care and collaboration thrive.

What to Expect When You Meet Me

When you meet me, you can expect calm energy, direct communication, and a natural lightness that keeps things grounded but never heavy I create a space that’s supportive, structured, and clear—where people feel safe, seen, and empowered. Whether I’m leading a team or working with a client— I bring empathy, insight, accountability, and intention.

Why I Care About This Work

I care about this work because I believe in pouring into people and watching them shine. There’s nothing more powerful than seeing someone shift from feeling helpless to feeling confident in facing life’s challenges. It brings me joy to see people feel more prepared, less anxious, and more secure in themselves.

I’m reminded of that quote about the bird on the branch—it doesn’t fear the branch breaking, because it trusts its ability to fly. That’s the kind of steady self-trust I want to help people build.

Leadership gives me the opportunity to do that on a broader scale—to support teams, shape systems, and create environments where people can truly thrive.

Fun Fact

Twin mom with a beach soul and a fire spirit. I live for beach vacations, comedy, and showing up fully—even in the hard seasons. Big heart, bigger sense of humor—I’m here for the healing and the chaos. My favorite TV show will always be I Love Lucy.

At Envision Unlimited, we are committed to providing compassionate, comprehensive mental health services. Our experienced team is here to support individuals and families in achieving mental wellness, independence, and inclusion. Our mission is to provide quality services that promote choice, independence, and inclusion - delivering care with empathy every time, everywhere.