Our Team

Dr. Spells is Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and has fellowship training in child and adolescent psychiatry. Her medical degree is from the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston. She completed her general psychiatry residency and child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship training at the Medical College of Georgia. Dr. Spells has a broad range of experience across multiple age ranges and treatment settings and adapts well to the challenges of underserved environments. Dr. Spells also has facilitated the start of two Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facilities in North Carolina in addition to two mental health agencies, also in North Carolina. Her experiences in corrections, forensics, community mental health, private practice, inpatient, consultation and liaison, emergency psychiatry, and telepsychiatry contribute to her ability maintain flexibility in the constantly changing world of medicine.

Danielle has a Masters of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis from Ball State University and a Bachelors of Science in Psychology from the University of Central Florida. With over 7 years’ experience of working with youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), she brings her energy and compassion as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst to St. Croix from Orlando, Florida.

Kia Griffith is a born and raised Crucian who earned her Bachelor of Sciences in Communication Disorders from Howard University in Washington, DC. Language therapy is her strength, and she also enjoys the challenge of articulation therapy. Hearing disorders are of keen interest to her as she’s been signing (American Sign Language) since she was a toddler. Ms. Kia’s teaching style includes the blending of arts-related activities and innovative therapy techniques. She loves to know each child’s likes, dislikes, strengths, and weaknesses so she can keep them highly motivated during therapy. Ms. Kia loves long walks, everything the beach has to offer, meditation through yoga, all genres of music, playwriting, and painting clouds.

Bailey McGuire is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst specializing ABA services for kids under 18-years old. Bailey received a Bachelor of Arts in applied behavioral science from the University of Kansas and a Master of Science in applied behavior analysis from the University of Nebraska Omaha/University of Nebraska Medical Center. She has applied her skills in a variety of settings and with a range of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She worked as a research assistant and lead behavior therapist at an ABA clinic for toddlers with autism for three and a half years prior to moving to St. Croix in Summer of 2020.

Emily has a Masters degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from Ball State University and an undergraduate degree in Health Behavior Science with a concentration in disability studies from the University of Delaware.  Emily has been working in the field for almost 10 years before moving to St. Croix in early 2020.  Prior to relocating to St. Croix,  Emily lived in northern New Jersey where she worked in both public elementary school and clinic settings with children with ASD.

Adrienne Dooley, M.S., CCC-SLP earned her Masters of Science in Speech and Language Pathology from Northeastern University in Massachusetts. She specializes in pediatric speech and language therapy, working with all populations both individually and in small groups. Adrienne has extensive experience with all types of communication disorders and diagnoses. Some areas include: receptive and expressive language delays, articulation disorders, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), non-verbal communication,  social pragmatic deficits, cognitive impairments, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and fluency disorders. Adrienne believes in all children learning through play and focuses on making therapy both engaging and educational.

Dr. Mendez is a licensed psychologist in the Virgin Islands. She is a member and former president of the Association of Virgin Islands Psychologist and a member of the American Psychological Association. Dr. Mendez is originally from Puerto Rico, but has made St. Croix her home for the past 40 years. She is fully bilingual (Spanish and English). She worked as a psychologist for the Department of Education (Educational Diagnostic Center) and the Department of Health (Mental Health Clinic). She retired from government work and is presently providing counseling services for Island Therapy Solutions.

Khalifa J. Antoine, BS received her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Barry University in May 2016. During her undergraduate studies, Khalifa was an intern at Breakthrough Miami where she encouraged gifted students who lived in poverty-stricken areas to overcome obstacles. She was also an intern at St. Mary’s Cathedral School in Miami Florida where she facilitated groups, implementing art and life skills activities utilizing the 7 principles of Kwanza. Upon returning to St. Croix, Khalifa began work as a Mental Health Technician, providing direct patient care at the girls group home as well as crisis interventions at Virgin Islands Behavioral Services before returning to school.

Khalifa is currently pursuing her Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from the University of the Virgin Islands. She is a Psychometrist at Island Therapy Solutions and also a Pre-Master’s Intern. Khalifa has dreams of one day becoming a marriage and family therapist as well as owning and managing her own mental health facility, aimed at creating a climate in our islands where those who are experiencing symptoms of mental illness are encouraged to seek the available help, get a proper diagnosis, and the appropriate treatment with the love and support of their families, friends, and community.

Shanah Bannis is a psychometrist currently pursuing her Master’s in Psychology with a Counseling Concentration at the University of the Virgin Islands. She has worked with a diverse population within the mental health profession. As a research Assistant for the University of the Virgin Islands and a Case Manager for Virgin Islands Behavioral Services, she served at-risk youth and their families. She currently works with children, teens and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, and major life changes.

Jhozna Gilbert was born on the island of St. Kitts, but was raised on St. Thomas USVI, from the age of three. She graduated from the University of the Virgin Islands and received a Bachelor of Arts in Clinical Psychology. Jhozna has worked with Island Therapy Solutions since June 2016. She wishes to further her studies in Behavior Analysis, with hopes of becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analysis. Her goal is to continue to inform the public about an under-served population.

Lisa is a Lead ABA Therapist who hold a Bachelor’s in Psychology and is currently enrolled at FIT pursuing advanced credentialing (BCaBA). She has been married to Kyle for 10 years and is a dog mom to Tungsten – they moved to St. Croix in 2016. Lisa is a beginner gardener and beach goer who is always looking for positivity every day.

Keila M. Medina, MA received her Masters of Arts in Counseling Psychology from the University of the Virgin Islands in May 2016. She began working with at-risk children and adolescents since the age of 15 through the Lighthouse with a Mission afterschool program. As an undergraduate student at UVI, she spent two years working with at-risk young adults through a Women’s Coalition program called “Project LINK.” Ms. Medina met Dr. Lindsy Wagner in January 2013 through her practicum program. After she successfully completed her undergraduate studies, she was hired full time at Island Therapy Solutions. She worked closely with Dr. Wagner as her psychological assistant, Master’s Intern, and is currently a pre-licensure intern. She is currently preparing for the EPPP exam; and upon successful completion, will become an Associate Psychologist. At ITS, she is the group and intern coordinator, and completes diagnostic interviews, assessments, individual therapy and facilitates group therapy under the supervision of Dr. Wagner.

Alea Bird is a Certified Social Worker who enjoys incorporating play and art expression into her therapeutic work with children, adolescents and families. During therapy, she hopes to empower and collaborate with individuals to make the hard stuff easier to manage.

Adenike is a true child of the African diaspora: folks from Trinidad & Tobago, born on the mainland, raised in Tanzania, East Africa. A lover of travel and the world in general, Adenike has made her homes in New Mexico, Colorado and New York before choosing to call St. Croix home.  She speaks Swahili and Spanish and has 20+ years experience as school psychologist and teacher, and loves to be of assistance and support to others.  When she’s not testing and writing reports, Adenike busies herself by meditating, reading, doting over her gorgeous nephews and nieces, and baking up a storm in the kitchen. Bread anyone?

Born and raised in the Virgin Islands, Kathleen is the Testing Supervisor of Island Therapy Solution’s Clinical Services Department. Her experience in mental health began in her late teens when she worked in the Clubhouse at the Department of Health. Kathleen has worked in the areas of mental health, the court system as well as in education. Her experience includes psycho-educational and neuro-psychological evaluations, case management, and engaging in therapeutic services such as couples therapy, individual therapy (with children and adults), and family therapy.

Kathleen received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Clark Atlanta University. She later obtained her Master of Social work Degree and her Educational Specialist Degree in School Psychology from Andrews University. In her spare time, Kathleen enjoys hiking, baking, fishing, and spending quality time with her family.

Lynisha graduated from the University of the Virgin Island with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. She has worked within Island Therapy Solutions’ ABA team as a Registered Behavioral Technician (RBT), and is now a Lead Therapist. As an RBT, Lynisha has worked in various settings with both the kids and adult programs. She loves seeing the positive changes that occur in the individuals she has had the pleasure of serving.

Sarah Lima is a Psychiatric Physician Assistant with an interest in diagnosis and treatment of all Child and Adult mental health disorders. She graduated in 2017 from Barry University with a Master of Clinical Medical Science – Physician Assistant. Mrs. Lima utilizes her Collaborative Psychiatrists and Evidence Based Medicine to stay up to date with the latest advances and practices in medicine. She is an animal lover and enjoys spending her time off with her husband and multitude of pets.

Sara Costello Gunning, MAT, BCBA, LBA is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst who specializes in transition programming for individuals with autism. She attended the University of Georgia for her master’s degree in Special Education with an emphasis on autism spectrum disorders under the Collaborative Adolescent Autism Teacher Training (CAATT) fellowship project for a further specialization in adolescent and adult transition programs. Sara has experience in early intervention and classroom interventions through work with the Global Autism Project and school district collaboration. She completed her respecialization in applied behavior analysis at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Sara maintains her teaching credentials in the state of Georgia and has worked as both a classroom teacher and BCBA within Atlanta school districts. Sara has extensive experience working in under-resourced communities to provide behavior analytic services. She believes in building local capacity by collaborating with community members and stakeholders in the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis.

Richelle Wiltshire is a post-masters intern with a M.S. in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling. She is a Nationally Certified Counselor and is working on becoming a License Professional Counselor. Obtaining her undergraduate degree in Psychology from Norfolk State University in Norfolk, Virginia, she began working as a Registered Behavior Technician in the ABA department and is also the Scheduler.

Dr. Magen Freeman, OTD, OTR/L is originally from Poquoson, Virginia. She grew up visiting her grandparents on St. Thomas and has relocated permanently to provide pediatric occupational therapy services at Partners4Kids. Magen received her B.S. in Health Sciences from James Madison University and then went on to obtain her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Mary Baldwin University in 2018. Most recently, Magen provided pediatric OT services for a non-profit special education program serving children with emotional and behavioral challenges in Washington, DC. Magen values relationships and enjoys collaboration with colleagues, families, and clients to best meet the needs of our pediatric clients.

Dora is an ASHA certified speech-language pathologist. She earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan, with majors in Communications and Psychology. She later went on to complete her master’s degree in Speech and Language Pathology, with an emphasis on Autism Spectrum Disorders. Dora has worked with populations spanning early intervention through hospice care. She has experience in pediatric outpatient settings, adult rehabilitation and dysphagia protocols and therapy. Dora enjoys working as part of a multidisciplinary team to meet the needs of patients and families, with diagnoses including ADHD, cerebral palsy, cognitive disorders, and speech/language disorders.

Delyla Ulm began working as a behavior therapist for individuals with developmental disabilities in 2007. Over the years, Delyla has worked as an in-school paraprofessional, private therapist, supervising clinician, and a consultant to individuals, families,and schools in both the United States and overseas. In her spare time, Delyla instructs for an online applied behavior analysis (ABA) graduate program teaching ABA principals to the future generation of BCBAs. In December 2013, Delyla graduated with her M.Ed in Curriculum and Instruction specializing in ABA. In 2016, she earned the credential of BCBA and worked in the Northern Virginia, Lebanon, and Wisconsin before coming to St. Croix to join Island Therapy Solutions.

Megan Burton is a licensed Social Worker with a Masters in Clinical Counseling. She specializes in working with children and adolescents, as well as individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Vanessa is a seasoned occupational therapist with a passion for working with children from birth to five. Her most recent clinical experience has been working with these clients and their families in their homes, daycares and school settings. Additionally, Vanessa has extensive experience working with young children with feeding issues, torticollis, developmental disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, and children with complex medical issues. She graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2003 with a Master of Science degree in Occupational Therapy.  She became certified as an Assistive Technology Practitioner in 2014. She has completed training in the IMSE Orton-Gillingham reading program and is a Karma Kids Children’s Yoga teacher.  Vanessa is a lifelong learner, enjoys working with a variety of clients, collaborating with families and other professionals.

Shayne O’Rourke-Testa was born in Torrington, CT and has had family ties between St. John and St. Thomas for over 30 years. Shayne joined Island Therapy’s ABA St. Thomas team in January, 2018. She brought with her 24 years of experience within the human services field. As Project Director of a vocational services program in CT, Shayne’s program was hand picked for states first Autism Pilot Program. In addition, Shayne worked as a subcontractor to provide vocational career assessments and transition plans for students with Autism in the private and public school sectors.

Melinda Shaw is originally from Boston, and got into the field of Autism and ABA in college when she volunteered to supervise a group of teenagers on the spectrum who wanted to have some social time apart from their parents. She thought it sounded interesting, and the rest is history! She pursued a masters in Clinical Psychology, but had a professor write “there’s more to life than reinforcement!” on a paper she wrote. She disagreed, and quickly switched to ABA. Melinda has been living in St. Thomas since 2017, one week before Hurricane Irma. She fell in love with the island, the culture, and the people, and has stuck around ever since.

Kristina Shiao is a Board Certified and Licensed Behavior Analyst who specializes in providing behavior-analytic treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). She is an advocate for those that are diagnosed with mental health disorders. As a young student, Kristina had an early interest in the field of pediatric psychology. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Child Development from Florida State University, where she graduated with honors and conducted research in cognitive psychology laboratories.

Kristina moved to St. Thomas in 2014, and worked as a speech therapy assistant. She provided services to children and adults diagnosed with speech disorder, ASD, traumatic brain injury and developmental delays. She joined the Island Therapy Solutions team in October 2015. and earned her Master of Arts in Professional Behavior Analysis from Florida Institute of Technology in December 2018.

Her experiences in the field of behavior analysis include providing direct care, behavior intervention strategies, environmental manipulations, functional behavior assessments, maintaining motivation, data analyses, parent training, teaching social skills and more. She is knowledgeable about the co-occurring disorders associated with ASD, including intellectual impairment, seizure disorder, anxiety disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, depression and gastrointestinal problems.

Kristina has delivered lectures at the University of the Virgin Islands and the Department of Education. As a bi-lingual daughter of Taiwanese immigrants, Kristina is sensitive to cultural and ethnic differences. She is passionate about her island community and consistently aims to create more understanding towards mental health.

Lorie Jeffers was born and raised on St. Croix USVI. She graduated from the Manor School and received a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of the Virgin Islands. She has been on board with Island Therapy Solutions since March 2015. Upon the completion of her Master’s degree, Lorie has decided to continue her studies in behavior analysis to continue to serve on the island that raised her. She is currently pursuing Board Certification as an assistant Behavior Analyst from Florida Institute of Technology. Her vision is to implement changes that result in beneficial life long outcomes for those she serves

Courtney has been part of Island Therapy’s Applied Behavior Analysis team since the launch of its STEP Program (Strategic Transition Enrichment Program) for adult learners with Autism in January of 2016. Courtney is a transplant from New York City who brought with her 14 years experience within the Juvenile Justice System in both NY and VA. She holds a BS in Psychology from The College of New Rochelle in Westchester County NY.

Courtney is a huge advocate for inclusion and truly enjoys spreading education and sensitivity to the community of St Croix. She encourages growth and promotes independence in all she does. Courtney believes she is a vessel for change and awareness and genuinely enjoys her role as such.

Dr. Ernest Jermin is a Child and Adult Psychiatrist in practice since 2010. Although he works in all areas of the field, seeing patients of all ages, his primary areas of interest is in preventive, community oriented programs to treat children and adolescents. He is originally from New York, having roots from the Caribbean and Central America. He is presently in practice in Connecticut and the US Virgin Islands.

Adriane Maier, Ph.D. BCBA-D, LMHC is the Clinical Director of ITS’ Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) program. She is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Mental Health Counselor who has worked in the field of autism and developmental disabilities for over 30 years. Dr. Maier has her doctorate in Psychology with a specialty in social and behavioral science and has conducted extensive research in the area of risk-taking behavior and sensation seeking. This research has been applied clinically to the design and development of substance abuse programs for adolescents. Her clinical specialties include applied behavior analysis, cognitive behavior therapy and diagnostic evaluation. Dr. Maier has instructed at several universities and supervises clinical practicums for behavior analyst training programs.

Chelcie Stanton is a nationally registered occupational therapist and Ithaca College graduate. Upon earning her Master’s Degree in 2014, She was eager to return to her home on St. Croix to provide quality care to children in need on the island. Chelcie has experience working with children of all ages and varying diagnoses, including children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Sensory Processing Disorder, ADD and ADHD, coordination disorders, global developmental delays, and feeding difficulties.

Mr. Donnelly is a Pediatric Physician Associate with an interest and experience in the medical management of Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder. He graduated in 2005 from the Yale School of Medicine Physician Associate Program and has also earned a Certificate of Added Qualification in Pediatrics, which is the specialty exam for PA’s in pediatrics. Mr. Donnelly uses Evidence Based Medicine to stay up to date with the latest advances and practices in medicine. He is an avid sailor and loves spending his time off on the water.

With 20 years of experience in the field of Speech-Language Pathology, Allison has worked in a variety of settings and has had the opportunity to work with nearly every type of client within her scope of practice. Since graduating from Washington State University with a master’s degree in Speech and Hearing Sciences, she has discovered a passion for working with children from birth to five years, focusing on family-centered therapy. Through this approach, Allison has found the value of working with families to build therapeutic relationships both between families, therapists, and children. She enjoys providing support and education to families as they navigate day to day communication with their child and discovering how best to facilitate language development across the early years. Allison recently completed trainings in the SCERTS Model (Social Communication, Emotional Regulation and Transactional Support) and The PLAY Project, both of which compliment her play-based approach to communication and language development.

Sophia is a licensed Psychologist and Clinical Director of ITS’ Clinical Services Department. She has worked in the mental health field/ social welfare agencies with a variety of populations including adolescent parents and their families, abuse and neglect cases, high risk adolescents with externalizing and externalizing behaviors, victims and offenders of domestic violence, and the elderly. She has previous experience with the Catholic Charities of the VI, Department of Human Services, Department of Education, Virgin Islands Behavioral Services and Women’s Coalition. Most of her career has been in social work and most recently she has obtained her PhD in Clinical Psychology. Her goal is to promote positive social change in society.

G. Rita Dudley-Grant, Ph.D., MPH, ABPP, is a licensed clinical psychologist with and the Clinical Community Outreach Coordinator for Island Therapy Solutions. Her primary interests include working through trauma, alternative approaches to therapy, and working across the generations spectrum. Her publications include books, articles and chapters on clinical psychology and capacity expansion in the Caribbean, women’s mental health, diversity and spirituality in mental health. She is a member of the Behavioral Health Advisory Council in the VI and serves on the State Advisory Group, Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention USVI. Dr. Dudley-Grant is a founding member and past president of the Association of Virgin Islands Psychologists, a founding and Executive Council Member of the Caribbean Alliance of National Psychological Associations and a fellow of the American Psychological Association. She is currently co-chair of the Caribbean Regional Conference of Psychology which will be held in November 2020 in St. Croix, bringing an international audience to the territory with a focus on Disaster behavioral health and wellness. She has been a trainer for decades on multiculturalism, trauma informed care, and women in treatment. Her current training focuses on self care for caregivers in a variety of circumstances.

Kate Cavacco, COTA/L is originally from Plymouth, Massachusetts, and relocated to St. Thomas with her two children. She graduated with a BA in Applied Science from Mount Ida College in 1999 and has experience treating adults and children with a wide range of physical and mental health disabilities. Her most recent clinical experience has been working on a transdisciplinary team with infants & toddlers with special needs.

Kate is knowledgeable in working with children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and developmental delays, using sensory integration techniques, oral motor/feeding interventions, and massage therapy. She is also skilled in using The SCERTS (Social Communication Emotional Regulation Transactional Support) Program.

Kate brings creativity, enthusiasm, and compassion to her work, and enjoys collaborating with parents and team members to promote the best outcomes for children and their families.

DeeAnne Davis is a licensed Clinical Social Worker who is currently accepting new therapy clients. She primarily treats individuals who have experienced trauma or struggle with depression and anxiety, young adults on the Autism Spectrum, retirees, and hurricane survivors/champions. DeeAnne uses integrative techniques to provide clients with powerful ways to reduce automatic and habituated responses to stressors, which can keep them stuck in unproductive patterns of behavior. She looks forward to partnering with you on this transformative journey of growth and healing.

Julie Sommer is a pediatric occupational therapist with expertise in treating children from birth through high school with a variety of conditions, including neurological disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, premature birth, genetic conditions, Down Syndrome, oral motor & feeding concerns, coordination disorders, sensory processing difficulties, and developmental delays. She uses a family-centered approach to help children reach their potential for participating in daily routines at home and school.

Dr. Lindsy Wagner is a licensed clinical Psychologist and Pediatric Neuropsychologist. She is the owner and CEO of Island Therapy Solutions. Dr. Wagner is also the founder and Board President of Coral Reef Academy. a school for children with Autism and Developmental Disabilities. Most recently, Dr. Wagner was appointed by the Governor to the serve on the Virgin Islands Board of Psychology.

Her clinical specialties include conducting diagnostic evaluations, neuropsychological evaluations, forensic neuropsychological evaluations and providing consultation and training for children and families with a variety of presenting concerns including learning disabilities, neurological disorders and emotional and behavioral concerns. Dr. Wagner also specializes in diagnosis and treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder. She conducts social skills groups with children with Autism Spectrum Disorders as well as individual and family therapy.

Dr. Wagner has taught at the University of the Virgin Islands, and prior to moving to St. Croix, she was the Director of Training at The Watson Institute in Pennsylvania. She completed her doctorate at The American School of Professional Psychology in Washington, DC. Dr. Wagner previously completed two years of training at Children’s National Medical Center in Washington, DC, in the Pediatric Neuropsychology Unit.