Local Entrepreneur Is Transforming Behavioral Health – One Child and Family at a Time

Jacob Spellis remembers exactly what it felt like to fall through the cracks.

As a young student struggling with behavioral issues, substance use, and a learning
disability, he wasn’t seen as a child in crisis—he was seen as a problem.
“I got kicked out of school. I got labeled early,” Spellis recalls. “No one asked what
was happening underneath. I needed help, not punishment.”

Today, Spellis is the CEO of Vital Health, a behavioral health organization that’s
changing how kids and families access care in Northwest Ohio. Under his leadership,
Vital Health offers integrated outpatient services for youth ages 5 to 17—including
therapy, case management, psychiatric services, and after-school day treatment
programs—all in one place.

His mission is personal: to ensure no child walks the same path he did without the
support they need to thrive.

“We’re not just treating symptoms—we’re creating a system that sees the whole
person, the whole family, and brings care to where it’s needed most,” Spellis says.

This fall, Vital Health is expanding its after-school behavioral health programming to
serve more school-aged youth experiencing emotional, behavioral, or mental health
challenges. These programs provide a safe, structured, and therapeutic environment
from 4:00 to 6:30 PM, Monday through Thursday, and include:

● Individual & Group Counseling
● Skill-Building Workshops
● Trauma-Informed Clinical Care
● Snacks & Meals Provided

Designed to bridge the gap between schools and families, the initiative works in
collaboration with educators, school counselors, and community partners. Vital Health
ensures that students aren’t simply suspended or sent home when they act out—but
instead connected to meaningful, restorative support.

“This isn’t about fixing kids,” Spellis says. “It’s about healing what’s hurting them.”
From a troubled youth to a visionary CEO, Spellis is living proof that transformation is
possible—and now he’s leading the way to make that change possible for others.

To learn more about Vital Health’s youth programs or to refer a child or family, visit
www.vitalhcare.com or call 419.740.3022.

For interviews, media inquiries, or to schedule a tour, contact:
Krystal Freyre
Chief Marketing Officer
419.740.3022 ext. 1007
kfreyre@vitalhcare.com

About Vital Health
Vital Health is a full-service behavioral healthcare provider based in Maumee, Ohio. We
offer integrated, trauma-informed care for children (ages 5+), adults, and families facing mental health, substance use, and co-occurring challenges. With comprehensive outpatient services—including therapy, psychiatry, case management, and intensive programs—delivered under one roof, we reduce barriers and help individuals build healthier, more hopeful futures.