Meet Our Team

Liz Jones MSW, LICSW
Program Supervisor

Liz started with the Hoffmann Center in 2025 as the Outpatient Program Supervisor. Liz graduated from St. Cloud State University in 2008 with a bachelor’s degree in Community Psychology. After graduation, she began working in the mental health services field, providing skills training services. Liz then pursued a Master of Social Work degree from St. Catherine University/University of St. Thomas, graduating in 2012. In 2013, Liz advanced to a director role, where she supervised staff and managed programs for a mental health agency. In her free time, Liz enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking and spending the day at the lake.

Taylor Johnson, MS, LICSW
Clinical Supervisor

I earned my Bachelor’s in Social Work from St. Cloud State University in 2018 and my Master’s in Social Work from Minnesota State University, Mankato, in 2020. I am a Licensed Clinical Independent Social Worker (LICSW) and have been with Hoffmann Counseling Services since graduating, now serving as a Clinical Supervisor. I am passionate about helping clients uncover their strengths and empowering them to make positive changes. I have experience working with youth, adolescents, older adults, and families, addressing concerns such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress. I am also trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), a highly effective trauma resolution technique. I live in Mankato with my husband and enjoy skiing, camping, lake outings, playing pickleball, and spending time with family.

Leah Preisinger, BA
Mental Health Practitioner

I graduated from St. Cloud State University in May 2023 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and am currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Counseling at the University of North Dakota. My experience includes working with children in daycare, park and recreation settings, and as a dance coach, as well as completing an internship with Brown County Human Services. I have supported children from diverse backgrounds with challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, autism, ADHD, and other developmental and neurological disorders. I live in New Ulm and volunteer as the New Ulm High School Dance Coach. In my free time, I enjoy traveling and spending time with friends and family.

Hayli Littlehead, MS
Therapist

I earned a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Minnesota State University, Mankato, in 2021. As a Master Trainee, I am receiving supervision toward LPCC licensure and currently work as an outpatient therapist at Hoffmann Counseling Services in Waseca. I have experience working with clients of all ages on concerns such as anxiety, depression, grief recovery, trauma, substance use, and couples therapy. I also have a background in CTSS and skills work with children and adolescents. My approach focuses on helping individuals uncover their inner strengths, resolve grief and trauma, and feel valued in a safe and supportive environment. I live in Mankato with my husband and two cats. In my free time, I enjoy sewing, baking, playing musical instruments, and spending time with loved ones.

Brenda Tollefson, BS
Mental Health Practitioner

I received an Associate of Arts in Education, and a Bachelor's of Science in Psychology from Bemidji State University.

I worked as a paraprofessional in the Therapeutic and DCD (Developmental Cognitive Disability) classrooms in Waseca Public Schools, as well as NRHEG for 5 years. I started with Hoffmann Counseling Services in outpatient as a Mental Health Practitioner in March 2022. I have worked with children and adults of all ages and abilities. I live in Waseca, with my two school age kids, 3 cats, and 4 ducks. I enjoy engaging in activities outdoors and often have sessions outside when possible. My favorite hobbies include kayaking, rock climbing, and anything involving arts and crafts.

Alex Van Thuyne, BA
Mental Health Practitioner

I earned a Bachelor’s in Psychology from Minnesota State University, Mankato, in 2021. Before joining Hoffmann Counseling Services in 2022 as a Mental Health Practitioner, I worked as the People Department Manager at McDonald’s, where I gained experience supporting individuals in high-stress environments.

I am passionate about helping people begin their healing journeys and achieve their goals. I enjoy working with children, especially in fostering their relationships with caregivers, family, and friends, though I’m also open to working with older populations. I live in downtown Mankato and will soon be sharing my home with a kitty. In my free time, I enjoy video games, movies, hiking, and practicing self-care.

Johnathan Harris, MS, LPCC
Therapist

Johnathan earned his Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from St. Cloud State University in 2021 and is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. Since November 2021, he has been a therapist at Hoffmann Counseling Services in Mankato, previously working part-time at the Leo Hoffmann Center and interning at the Safety Center in Bloomington. Johnathan works with clients of all ages, addressing depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and sexual behaviors. A lifelong Minnesotan, he enjoys traveling with his wife, playing fetch with his dog, and camping with family.

Michele Biehn-Recker, BS
Mental Health Practitioner

I hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Juvenile Justice, earned in 2008. Over the years, I have gained extensive experience working with juvenile sex offenders in residential settings, as well as supporting adults and children from diverse backgrounds. My work has included addressing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, autism, ADHD, and other developmental and neurological disorders.

Currently residing in North Mankato, I enjoy spending quality time with my husband of 20 years, our 17-year-old daughter, and our loyal Australian Shepherd, Cooper. Outside of work, I love being with my grandchildren, fishing, reading, cheering for the Minnesota Vikings, and downhill skiing.

Jake Johnson, BA
Clinical Trainee

I earned my Bachelor of Social Work from Mankato State University in 2020 and am completing my Master of Social Work at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. Since October 2022, I have been a Mental Health Practitioner at Hoffmann Counseling Services and previously worked as a Behavioral Therapist at Minnesota Autism Center. I specialize in working with children and adolescents diagnosed with Autism and ADHD, helping them achieve stability in their daily lives. I live in Mankato with my partner and two cats. In my free time, I enjoy golfing, hiking, exercising, playing video games, and managing my fantasy football team.

Georgia Illa, MS
Therapist

I earned my Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Minnesota State University, Mankato, in 2024 and am pursuing licensure as an LPCC. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a Sociology minor from Central College, where I studied abroad in Wales. My person-centered therapeutic approach values trust, respect, and meeting clients where they are, while also challenging them to embrace growth and change. Before joining Hoffmann Counseling Services, I interned at Adult, Child, and Family Services and worked for two years providing ABA therapy to children with autism. I am trained in DC: 0-5, SAF-T, and Psychological First Aid. I have experience supporting clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, PTSD, autism, and life transitions. In my free time, I enjoy traveling and spending time with loved ones.

Margie "Liz" Coopman, BA
Mental Health Practitioner

I graduated from Concordia University, St. Paul May 2023 and received my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology.

I have experience working with children at Leo A Hoffmann Center's residential program. I also have experience working with adults in residential and outpatient settings and job coaching experiences. I have experience working with individuals with various mental health concerns.

Deedra Foley, MSW, LGSW
Clinical Trainee

Deedra brings a wealth of experience and dedication to social work. With a bachelor’s degree from Minnesota State University, Mankato, and a master’s from Augsburg University, she demonstrates a strong commitment to growth and professional excellence. Her diverse background spans group homes, autism centers, care coordination, and crisis stabilization, showcasing her versatility and passion for serving others. Returning to Hoffmann as a clinical trainee after interning there highlights her dedication to making a meaningful impact. Deedra’s flexibility in offering virtual visits during non-traditional hours ensures accessible care tailored to clients’ needs. Specializing in individuals aged 12 through adulthood, she provides compassionate, personalized support for a range of mental health challenges.