Meet Our Team
Alisha McCanney, LCSW
Throughout Alisha's career as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker she has had the opportunity to work with different populations, but only noticed a gap in reproductive mental health when she was the one in need of support. As she personally faced a reproductive health issue, she quickly joined a club that no one ever wants to be a part of...The Infertility Club. Almost immediately she began to realize how many others surrounding her were in this club that no one ever really talked about. She started speaking with women she barely knew who shared some of the most difficult moments of their lives with her as well as their frustrations with the lack of mental health supports. She then decided to start the journey of opening a practice where women could stop suffering in silence and seek the support that is critical in addressing their behavioral health wellness. Her experiences have shaped the way she approaches therapy as well as the way Willow Counseling Services operates.
Alisha's therapeutic approach is tailored to each person and often utilizes Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Internal Family Sytems (IFS) while using a client-centered approach. Alisha's clinical focus is within perinatal mental health to include infertility, traumatic birth, loss, postpartum depression and anxiety, NICU trauma and adjustment to parenthood.
Michelle Adams, MSW/ Doula
Michelle Adams earned her Bachelor and Master of Social Work at Delaware State University. She faithfully served 23 years in the United States Air Force where she resided at various overseas and stateside locations and was afforded the opportunity to provided medical support to a number of diverse populations in the capacity as an OB/GYN, labor/delivery medical technician. Michelle also worked in a variety of settings and with diverse clients, including both long-term and brief interventions for the Department of Veteran Affairs as a Substance Use Disorder Social Worker, Christiana Care Health Services HIV Program and Mental Health Therapist at Dedicated to Women. Michelle understands that living can be filled with an array of challenges that requires a little more than “a rub on the back” or “It will be okay”. She is motivated by as she says “the privilege to see and support women experiencing these challenges become healthy, whole and embrace their new optimistic approach towards life.
As a Doula, Michelle enjoys the unique blend of providing the necessary therapy to the woman who now requires pre and post-natal care as she enters into motherhood.
Michelle is driven and committed to ensuring women adopt a healthier quality of life and mental wellness.
Michelle's counseling philosophy and orientation incorporates, but are not limited to cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, solution-based, and motivational interviewing approaches.
As a therapist, she strives to connect with people through compassion, empathy, kindness and respect.
Dr. Lindsay Griffin, Ph.D. LCSW
Dr. Lindsay Griffin earned her Ph.D in Social Work from Bryn Mawr College and her Master in Social Work from University of Pennsylvania. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Delaware and has been practicing since 2011. Lindsay’s passion includes promoting mental wellness as part of a holistic wellness routine. Since graduating with her masters degree, she has worked with youth and adults from various socio-economic, racial, and cultural backgrounds in starting the process towards hope and mental wellness. She firmly believes that having the right connection with a therapist is pivotal to encouraging healing and growth. Lindsay is dedicated to walking alongside her clients in the therapy process.
Lindsay specializes with individuals experiencing infertility and perinatal anxiety and depression, especially focusing on working with Black women who are experiencing these life difficulties. Lindsay pulls from her own background and personal struggles with infertility to inform her work with others who are navigating their fertility journey. Lindsay utilizes a strengths-based and client-centered approach in her practice while focusing on realistic and achievable goals towards healing and change. Lindsay commonly uses narrative/storytelling to help individuals identify the meanings they have developed of events in their life. Other counseling approaches Lindsay utilizes in her work include mindfulness, self-compassion, and solution-focused strategies. Outside of her work with Willow Counseling, Lindsay’s research agenda is focused on reproductive health disparities that impact Black women (such as infertility and higher rates of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders) using Reproductive Justice principles to advocate for equitable access to supports and improving reproductive health outcomes. Her dissertation is titled Shared Decision-Making and Coping During Fertility Treatments: Understanding Black Women’s Experiences Using a Reproductive Justice Lens.
Vanessa Foulk, LPCMH
A natural “Listener” type since childhood, Vanessa has long recognized the value of a safe space to pour out thoughts that would otherwise be kept under tight wraps. It was the love of lending an ear and hearing people’s life stories that led Vanessa to seek a career in counseling.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor of Mental Health (LPCMH), Vanessa has found that finding true happiness often starts with being true to one’s self. The feelings of anxiety and depression can creep in little by little, and we can feel lost as to where to start in figuring out the answer to “what’s wrong.” Other times? We know just what the problem is, and therapy gently opens the opportunities of discovery that lead to understanding our unique ways of viewing the world, or patterns of thinking that shape our perspectives. We can learn what our underlying fears may be that hold us back. We learn how to tap into the courage previously deemed unobtainable, beyond our reach.
It’s the journey of self-discovery and the unexpected “ah-hah” moments that make Vanessa most passionate in her work. Whether it’s a general anxiety that’s been building or a relationship issue that we no longer feel we can handle on our own, a little guided conversation (yes, therapy!) can be just the thing we need to tap into previously hidden strengths and insights.
Vanessa’s counseling style begins first and foremost with the building of a relationship that fosters warmth, encouragement, and trust. From this Person-Centered philosophy she then incorporates various therapeutic approaches. From the focus of finding our meaning and values in life (Existential Therapy), to the skills-based focus of challenging faulty thinking (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) as well as EMDR, Vanessa enjoys the art of subtly weaving in various therapeutic strategies best suited for each individual.
Megan O'Hara,
LCSW, PMH-C
Megan O’Hara, LCSW, PMH-C has worked in the field of maternal mental health for
more than twenty years. She was the first clinician in Delaware to obtain Postpartum
Support International’s Perinatal Mental Health Certification (PMH-C) and is a founding board member of the Delaware chapter for Postpartum Support International. She received the 2021 Governor’s Compassionate Champion Award for her work on implementing trauma-informed care initiatives in health care, which acknowledges the role trauma may play in an individual’s life and includes ways to help the person feel safe, provide comfort and offer support. More recently, Megan
was honored by Delaware’s General Assembly for her dedication to the treatment of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) and advocating for better screening,
education and policies around PMADs.
She earned a master’s degree in clinical social work from Widener University in 2003 and completed her clinical training with sexual abuse survivors at SOAR, Inc. She has worked in integrated behavioral health settings for the past 16 years where she provides assessments, education and treatment to women and their families who are at risk for or experiencing perinatal mood disorders. She also provides clinical supervision to graduate students and provides professional education and
consultation, including sitting on the Maternal Mortality Review Board.
She is licensed in Delaware and Pennsylvania and provides virtual therapy at Willow
Counseling Services.
Katie Gibbs-Polkinghorne, LCSW
Katie Polkinghorne-Gibbs, a dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), brings a wealth of experience and a heart full of compassion to her role as a therapist. Throughout her career, Katie has had the privilege of working with diverse populations, honing her skills to make a positive impact in the lives of those she serves.
Katie's therapeutic toolbox is marked by a blend of positivity, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and mindfulness practices. She firmly believes in the transformative power of these approaches to help individuals overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
Katie's passion and mission extend to a deeply underserved population, the perinatal community. Recognizing the often-silent struggles of women during this pivotal life phase, Katie is committed to ensuring that no one feels alone in their journey. She believes that silence should never shroud the battles women face during this time. As an advocate for empowerment, Katie seeks to create a safe and welcoming space where women can openly share their experiences, find solace, and discover their resilience. It's not only okay to talk about these challenges; it's essential for healing and growth.
Katie's down-to-earth nature shines through in her approach, and she holds a unique belief in the power of animals to support our emotional well-being. She understands the profound connection between humans and their animal companions and leverages this bond in her therapeutic work.
Holly Foraker, LPMHC
Holly's background as a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor (LPMHC) showcases her professional expertise and commitment to providing effective and compassionate support to a diverse range of individuals. With experience spanning from adolescents to late adulthood, she has encountered and assisted individuals grappling with various challenges and life stages.
As a mother herself, Holly brings a unique perspective to her work by understanding firsthand the complexities and impact of the role of motherhood on a person's mental well-being. This personal experience allows her to connect with her clients on a deeper level, providing them with a safe and supportive environment to discuss their concerns and challenges.
Holly's commitment to the whole person approach reflects her understanding that true well-being is influenced by various aspects of one's life. By examining all facets, including personal history, relationships, work, and environmental factors, she helps her clients develop a holistic understanding of themselves and their goals.
Her incorporation of evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness techniques underscores her dedication to providing effective interventions. CBT enables individuals to identify negative thought patterns and behaviors and replace them with healthier alternatives, while mindfulness techniques foster self-awareness, stress reduction, and emotional regulation.
Anjoli "Anjie" Linehan, LMSW
Anjoli “Anjie” Linehan, LMSW is a Licensed Master of Social Work with a strong educational and clinical background. She earned her Bachelor of Science from Wilmington University and her Master of Social Work from the Graduate School of Social Work at the University of Denver.
Anjie takes a grounded, thoughtful approach to therapy, paired with a laid-back style that makes it easy to talk to her. Clients often find it comfortable to open up, knowing they’re in a supportive, judgment-free space. She has experience working in community programs, inpatient psychiatric settings, and individual therapy.
Her clinical focus includes supporting individuals navigating the journey to and through motherhood, perinatal loss, anxiety, depression, and trauma. Anjie believes in a holistic, collaborative approach to care and works closely with other providers when helpful, recognizing how connected mental and physical health truly are.
Above all, Anjie values building trust and connection with her clients. Her goal is for each person to leave sessions feeling a little lighter, supported, and confident they’re moving forward in a way that feels right for them.
Shymere Carter, LMSW
Shymere is a seasoned social worker with 14 years of experience in clinical practice, case management, and advocacy. Her personal experience as a mother allows her to connect deeply with clients, offering a safe and supportive environment to discuss their issues.
Shymere has worked in diverse settings, including community outreach, inpatient psychiatric care, and schools. She is skilled in evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Crisis Intervention.
Known for her patience, understanding, commitment, and nonjudgmental attitude, Shymere leverages her personal experiences to help others problem-solve and achieve their best selves. She values honesty and believes straightforward communication is more beneficial than sugar-coating issues. Shymere feels that she is human and strives to not portray anything she is not, and she desires to help others be their unique selves.
Her educational background includes a Bachelor's in Criminal Justice from Delaware State University, a Master's in Administration of Justice from Wilmington University, and a Master's in Social Work from Widener University. Shymere is dedicated to providing empathetic, culturally sensitive care to all clients.
Theresa Bauer, LMFT
Theresa is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). She earned her Bachelor of Arts from Flagler College in St. Augustine, Florida, and her Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Capella University. Drawing from her personal journey as a wife and new mother, Theresa deeply understands the unique emotional challenges that can arise during pregnancy and the postpartum period. She is passionate about supporting pregnant and postpartum mothers, couples, and families through these transformative and sometimes difficult life phases.
Theresa believes that mental health, community, and personal support are vital, especially during the perinatal period when individuals and families are navigating profound changes. Her prior experience working with families and youth facing significant challenges has equipped her with a versatile therapeutic toolbox, including Person-Centered Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Experiential Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Theresa’s clinical focus includes perinatal and postpartum anxiety and depression, relationship challenges during pregnancy and parenthood, family conflicts, and processing grief and trauma related to childbirth or parenting experiences. She takes a holistic approach—considering mind, body, spirit, relationships, and environment—to help her clients build resilience and create the supportive, fulfilling lives they envision for themselves and their families.
Ava Cossu, LACMH
Ava knows the path to parenthood isn't always simple. Fertility struggles, pregnancy loss, and the emotional rollercoaster of trying to grow a family are often kept quiet, and that silence can make the experience feel even heavier. She believes therapy should be a place where those feelings are met with care, honesty, and no judgment.
Having been through her own experiences with fertility and loss, Ava brings deep empathy and respect into the room. She helps clients make space for hard emotions, understand patterns that might be getting in the way, and build tools to feel more grounded and capable. Her style is all about helping people reconnect with their strengths, set boundaries that feel good, and move through uncertainty with more clarity and confidence.
Ava pulls from a mix of approaches, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Flash. She doesn’t believe in one-size-fits-all therapy. Every person is different, and she works to meet each client where they are, honoring their pace, their values, and their story. What matters most to her is building a strong, trusting relationship first. From there, the deeper work can unfold in a way that feels safe and collaborative.
Therapy with Ava is steady, thoughtful, and flexible. She keeps the space warm and grounded, and when it fits, she believes humor can be just as healing as insight. Life is messy, and therapy doesn’t have to be stiff or scary. Ava’s goal is to help people feel seen, supported, and empowered to move forward with hope and self-trust.
Our Space
Dover, Delaware
Middletown, Delaware
Conveniently located in Dover and Middletown, Delaware we offer ample parking and two entrances to ensure the privacy of each person. We hope you find the office to be a warm, comfortable and welcoming atmosphere! And if you prefer the comfort of your own home, we offer Telehealth sessions throughout all three counties of Delaware!
