We’re thrilled to welcome Robyn Ernst, LMHC, to the RFK Community Alliance team as our new Chief Operating Officer!

Robyn brings more than 25 years of experience in human services, including over 15 years in leadership roles across the nonprofit and public sectors. But beyond the impressive resume, what truly stands out about Robyn is her heart—and her deep commitment to the work we do.

Before joining us, Robyn served as Vice President of Adult Mental Health & Substance Use Services at the Center for Human Development (CHD) in Springfield. A licensed mental health counselor and certified trauma professional, she’s spent her career building programs that are trauma-informed, person-centered, and rooted in compassion.

"Robyn brings not only a wealth of professional expertise, but also a deep personal commitment to the values at the heart of RFK Community Alliance," said Dr. Kathy Mills, our President and CEO. "Her leadership is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and a true understanding of the challenges our program participants face."

Robyn’s background covers everything from residential treatment programs to integrated behavioral and primary care, and even clinical services within child welfare systems. She's passionate about building strong, mission-driven teams and creating more equitable systems wherever she works.

She earned her undergraduate degree from Lesley University and her master’s in Counseling Psychology from Fitchburg State University. Early in her career, she worked as the Youth Empowerment Director at a domestic violence shelter in Boston—an experience that helped shape her lifelong commitment to addressing childhood trauma and adversity.

Robyn has also led innovative initiatives like Project Worth, a unique integrated care program for survivors of human trafficking. In 2017, she was honored with the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families Commissioner’s Award for Performance Excellence.

Outside of her leadership roles, Robyn has maintained a trauma-focused therapy practice since 2005. She’s certified in EMDR therapy and is even an End-of-Life Doula through the University of Vermont—proof of her deep dedication to meeting people with care and compassion at every stage of life.

Robyn’s work is also shaped by her own life experience. As an adoptee, she brings a unique perspective on identity, belonging, and resilience—values that shine through in both her therapeutic work and her leadership style.

We’re so excited to have Robyn on board and can’t wait to see the ways she’ll help us grow and evolve as an organization. Welcome to the team, Robyn!