Springfield Community Mental Health Center

Professional Background

Lauren has worked in social services and mental health since earning her Master of Social Work from Saint Louis University in 2019. Her experience includes supporting survivors of human trafficking, youth in foster care, and individuals navigating mental health challenges.

Role at CMHC

As Intake Specialist, I support new clients through the enrollment process. I aim to be a welcoming, supportive presence from the very first interaction, helping clients feel safe, seen, and ready to begin their journey.

What to Expect When You Meet Me

I’m friendly, non-judgmental, and here to help. I strive to create a calm, affirming space where you can feel comfortable being yourself.

Why I Care About This Work

I believe everyone deserves to feel cared for and not alone. I’m passionate about making sure people know there is space for them—just as they are.

Fun Fact

I’m a certified yoga teacher who loves being in nature. I also have a deep love for tacos and salsa—so much so, it was part of my wedding vows!

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.

Jonathan Edwards | Peer Support Specialist

I use my own lived experience with recovery and mental health as a source of strength to work with others on their journey. Recovery has taught me that healing isn’t linear, it takes time to rebuild that connection with yourself, through honesty, and self-compassion - which are excellent tools for growth. At the community mental health center of Envision Unlimited, I facilitate support groups, meet with individuals one-on-one, and engage in outreach to connect with people who might feel overlooked or isolated.

To me, recovery means reclaiming your story and learning to show up for yourself—even on the hard days. It’s about finding purpose, building resilience, and knowing you’re not alone. As a peer, I bring authenticity, hope, and a nonjudgmental presence. I believe in holding space for others with respect, empathy, and the belief that everyone has the capacity to change. Clients can expect to be heard, supported, and met exactly where they are. I’m here to remind you that your experience matters and that you don’t have to do this on your own.

Fun fact

I’m a huge fan of every genre of music, classical being my favorite. I also love to collect books older than 50 years old.

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.