Meet Hope & Thrive's
Founder & Lead Therapist
Nicole Cannonier, LMSW,CCTP, RYT
SHE/HER
NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS
In person sessions are Mondays & Tuesdays upon availability
Specialties
Anxiety, Depression, Trauma Recovery, Motherhood, ADHD Late Diagnosis and Entrepreneur Life Balace Issues
About Me
Hi, I'm Nicole and I am so glad you are here and ready to take the next step. This tells me that you are ready for somethings to change. Id be happy to begin the therapy journey with you. I enjoy working with diverse clients from all walks of life, creating an inclusive and compassionate environment where everyone feels safe, heard, and hopeful. My passion lies in supporting individuals who have experienced trauma,whether recent or rooted in childhood, as they navigate their unique healing journeys. I aim to meet my clients where they are, honoring their individual experiences and perspectives. Together, we work toward empowerment, helping them build resilience, overcome obstacles, and thrive in life. I approach therapy as a collaborative partnership, creating a space where growth and healing can flourish.
Education
Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, 2008 Wayne State Unitversity
Master of Social Work, 2010 Wayne State University
Certifications
LMSW, Licensed Clinical Social Worker MichiganCertified Clinical Trauma Professional
Basic Trained EMDR
Registered YOGA Teacher 200HR
Therapeutic Approaches
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
Mindfulness Based Therapy
Trauma Focused Therapy
What to Expect in Therapy
I believe the therapy journey is a collaborative process built on trust and
understanding. My priority is to create a safe, supportive space where each
session feels meaningful and productive. Together, we’ll delve into the root
causes of distress, exploring your unique story to uncover insights and foster growth. Along the way, we’ll develop personalized strategies that empower you to embrace a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Interesting Facts About Me-I love to listening to the MOTH Storytelling Hour on NPR ( I learn incredible lessons through others stories)
I love to travel but my most favorite place that I have traveled to is Durban,
South Africa with Oahu, Hawaii as a close runner up.-I love art, watering my plants, sci-fi movies, learning new things, traveling, audible, poetry and good soulful music
-On weekends, you’ll often find me prioritizing family, fun, faith and service through various outlets or on a great micro vacation.
Looking forward to Vibing & Thriving,
Nicole
Insurances Accepted
Blue Cross Blue Shield, Blue Care Network, Priority Health, Cigna/Evernoth,
Blue Cross Complete, Optum/ United Health, Meridian & AETNA & VARIOUS EAP PLANS
Meet Hope & Thrive Resident Therapist & Wellness Coach
Desiree "Dez" Sanders, LMSW, BSN,RN
SHE/HER
Specialties:
Grief, depression, anxiety, life transitions, stress related to chronic disease,
caregiver burnout, financial social work
About me:
chronic disease.vel social worker and registered nurse, I take a holistic approach to providing therapeutic services to clients. Professionally I have work in a variety of settings including hospitals, insurance, community/public health, and private practice. My goal as a mental health professional is to support clients as they face challenges, such as anxiety, depression, grief and chronic disease.
Education:
Master of Social Work, University of Michigan
Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Davenport University
Bachelor of Science in Health Science, Grand Valley State University
Certifications:
LMSW – State of Michigan
Registered Nurse – State of Michigan
Financial Social Work
Therapeutic Approaches:
Mindfulness
Solutions-focused therapy
Motivational interviewing
Cognitive behavioral therapy
What to Expect in Therapy:
I focus on creating therapeutic rapport with clients that allows them to feel safe to be vulnerable, which may include moments of tears and even laughter. Clients can expect to feel supported and encouraged in sessions as I emphasize their progress even when they do not feel they are making progress.
Interesting Facts About Me:
I thrive on physical activity, nature, and sunshine. On Saturday mornings you can often find me at Hot Pilates. The 95 degrees and 40% humidity make me feel amazing!
Insurances Accepted: Blue Cross Blue Shield, Blue Care Network, Blue Cross Complete, United Health Care/ Optum & Cigna
Meet Hope & Thrive Associate Therapist & Clinical Manager
Anna Niforos, LMSW
SHE/HER
Specialties
ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Depression, Adoption, LGBTQ+
About Me
I have a passion for working with adolescent, young adult and adult individuals who need assistance with navigating life transitions, managing mood disorders, learning disabilities, and sexuality. Figuring out one's path can be difficult, however it is my mission to help clients along this journey. I aim to be a positive support for all those seeking therapy without judgement or discrimination.
Education
Master’s in Social Work, Arizona State University
Bachelor’s of Arts in Psychology;
Minor in Women’s and Gender Studies, Michigan State University
Therapeutic Approaches
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Solution Focused Therapy
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
Culturally Sensitive Therapy
What to Expect in Therapy
Whether it be managing symptoms of depression or solution focused sessions of task management, I work with clients on their specific goals and needs. We will figure out strategies and create toolkits together that aid in your daily wellbeing.
Interesting Facts About Me
-I am an absolute nerd and love to read/watch all things fantasy and sci-fi
-I am a Foodie and avid lover of exploring all things Detroit
-I love traveling and want to continue to learn about new cultures all the time
-Walking and spending time with my dogs is what keeps me sane
Insurances Accepted: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Blue Care Network, Meridian,
Priority Health Blue Cross Complete & AETNA Plans.
Meet Hope & Thrive Associate Therapist
Marquita Lanier, LLMSW
SHE/HER
Specialties
Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Counseling, Building Self-Confidence
About Me
I have a vast amount of experience in working with both youth and families. I am passionate about working with children and young adults as I know it is sometimes difficult to find a safe space. I am dedicated and committed to raising awareness about the importance of mental health and reducing the stigma associated with seeking assistance.
My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors without judgment. I believe in empowering my clients with the tools and strategies they need to make positive changes in their lives.
Together we can tackle a variety of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues and self confidence. I am excited to embark on this journey with you!
Education:
• Candidate PhD in Advanced Clinical Social Work, Walden University
• Master’s in Social Work, Walden University
Therapeutic Approaches:
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Mindfulness-Based
Psychodynamic TherapyInsurances Accepted: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Blue Cross Complete,Meridian, Optum/ United Health Care & AETNA
Meet Hope & Thrive Therapist
Dr. Devin Willis PhD, DLLP
SHE/HER
Specialties:
Identity Work: Strong Black Woman Schema, Black Racial Identity, Gender Racial
Identity
Trauma
Racial Trauma/Race Based Traumatic Stress
Depression
Anxiety
Self-Esteem
Life Transitions
Work Related Stress
About Me:
So listen, I am not sure how long you have been hoping to either start therapy for the
first time or get back to it, but congratulations on taking another step towards your
healing journey. I want to give you some insight into what this journey may look like with
me alongside you. Therapy with me is for those with the desire to become more
unapologetic about their mental health and wellness. Whether you tend to feel
responsible for others’ actions, emotions, or perceptions of you, have often noticed that
you struggle with maintaining or respecting healthy boundaries, and/or notice a pattern
of feeling you don’t receive the same energy or consideration that you give others, I
want to share that feeling more empowered and valued in your relationships is possible.
If the following resonates with you my culturally adapted lens may work well for you. For
example, are you the only one, or one of a few, in the workplace and realize the toll that
consistent exposure to microaggressions is taking on you? These experiences may
cause you to feel overwhelmed, like an imposter, and often stuck in the thought loop of
trying to decipher whether being passed over for promotions, micromanaged, or being
overworked is based on your race, gender, or both. Maybe you are a fellow mental
health professional challenging stigma in your family, or first-generation high earner,
constantly finding yourself in a cycle of burnout because your strong sense of
responsibility to both uplift family and the community is intertwined with survivors’
guilt/superhuman expectations of yourself. We’ll work to dissect and separate your
significant cultural values from the psychological impact of intergenerational trauma so
that you can begin to shift from simply coping to active healing. This is where
unapologetic mental health and wellness can begin.
Education:
Associate of Arts, Mott Community College, 2015
Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology, University of Michigan-Flint, 2017
Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology, Western Michigan University, 2020
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Counseling Psychology, Western Michigan University,
2025
Licensure and Certifications:
Doctoral Educational Limited Licensed Psychologist (DLLP)
PsychoHairapy
Therapeutic Approaches:
Culturally Adapted Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
What to Expect in Therapy:
Our work will center the connection between your unique cultural experiences and your
mental health, prioritizing a culture centric therapy space.
I intend to provide space to explore the inner conflict between the tendency to hide your
authentic self while also wanting so desperately to be truly seen. This is an opportunity
to take off the mask.
A value for psychoeducation (teaching about mental health) from the internalized belief
that knowledge is power. Even more, you will be encouraged towards the application of
knowledge to develop your own sense of empowerment.
As you enter a therapeutic relationship with me, I invite you to begin to explore your
relationship with yourself more deeply. We work to understand the pressure you may
feel to:
Always be strong
Suppress your emotions
Avoid vulnerability
Overachieve and/or
Help others, at your own expense.
Interesting Facts About Me:
In the past years I have started to the journey towards the goal of visiting all the Black
History museums/monuments across the United States. I have also started to explore
these opportunities internationally.
I am the second eldest of 8 children.
I only own and read non-fiction books.
*While I am a private pay provider, you may have out-of-network benefits (OON). I use a
service called Thrizer that automatically submits superbills for you and allows you to pay
a reduced fee after meeting your deductible. Please use this link to check whether you
have OON benefits and/or contact me for a free 15 min consultation call:
https://eligibility.thrizer.com/drwillis
Meet Hope & Thrive Intake Coordinator
Montasia Shellman LLMSW
SHE/HER
My name is Montasia Shellman, and I am the new Coordinator responsible for conducting intakes for therapy clients. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and a Master’s degree in Social Work and Law from Wayne State University. I am deeply passionate about helping and uplifting the community by ensuring clients feel supported, heard, and connected to the resources they need. In my free time, I enjoy creative writing, reading, and editing, which allow me to express myself and continue growing both personally and professionally. I am excited to conduct intakes and help clients take the first step toward therapy, making sure they feel heard, understood, and supported throughout the process.
Insurances Accepted: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Blue Cross Complete,Meridian, Optum/ United Health Care & AETNA
