Now Serving Two Locations
614 Eastern Shore Drive, Salisbury, MD
12302 Somerset Ave, Princess Anne, MD
meet the family
Gail Lankford, PhD, LCADC
Kutresa Lankford-Purnell, LCPC
Kutresa Lankford-Purnell, LCPC
Dr. Gail Lankford, Ph.D., LCADC is the Executive Director of Next Chapter Behavioral Health and the current CEO/President of Bayshore Community Counseling Services, a nonprofit organization awarded over $1.5 million in grants to support evidence-based prevention programs. With more than 45 years of experience in behavioral health, she has served as a therapist, educator, administrator, and consultant across public agencies, universities, and private sectors. At Next Chapter, she has helped shape a comprehensive, person-centered behavioral health program. Though she no longer holds a caseload, Dr. Lankford is known for personally connecting with every client—often remembering their names and birthdays. She believes the people we serve are the heart of our mission. She is currently engaged in prevention science research with Johns Hopkins, Georgetown, and the University of Maryland College Park.
Kutresa Lankford-Purnell, LCPC
Kutresa Lankford-Purnell, LCPC
Kutresa Lankford-Purnell, LCPC
Kutresa Lankford-Purnell brings over 27 years of experience in addiction treatment, including nearly 15 as a clinical supervisor. She began her career at the Worcester County Health Department and later led outpatient and methadone treatment programs. Kutresa has also contributed to higher education as adjunct faculty and Undergraduate Clinical Coordinator at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, mentoring future behavioral health professionals. Her person-centered approach emphasizes respect, dignity, and creating a safe, nonjudgmental space for healing. Integrating mindfulness practices, she supports emotional awareness and self-discovery. Believing recovery is a collaborative journey, Kutresa empowers individuals by meeting them where they are and helping them build on their strengths to achieve meaningful, lasting change.
Kennedi Purnell, ADT
Kutresa Lankford-Purnell, LCPC
Cha-Tanya Lankford-Dickerson, Phd, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Kennedi Purnell is a graduate of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore with a Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling. As an Addictions Counselor Trainee, she brings over two years of experience providing counseling services under certified supervision in the state of Maryland. Kennedi is deeply committed to service and connection, offering a compassionate and person-centered approach throughout the pre-admission process. She thrives in environments that require empathy, clear communication, and a deep understanding of individual needs. Her passion lies in helping individuals feel informed, welcomed, and empowered as they begin their journey toward recovery.
Cha-Tanya Lankford-Dickerson, Phd, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Cha-Tanya Lankford-Dickerson, Phd, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Cha-Tanya Lankford-Dickerson, Phd, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Dr. Cha-Tanya Lankford, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW, is a licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years of experience providing mental health services to children, adults, and families. She has been a practicing clinician since 2001 and holds licenses in Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. Dr. Lankford specializes in clinical assessment, diagnostic evaluation, treatment planning, and trauma-informed care. She holds a Certificate in Traumatic Stress Studies from the Trauma Center at Justice Resource Institute in Boston. As a certified clinical supervisor in Delaware and Maryland, she supports the professional growth of aspiring social workers. Dr. Lankford has also served as an adjunct professor and field instructor at several universities, reflecting her strong commitment to education, supervision, and clinical excellence.
Destini Lankford, CAC-AD
Cha-Tanya Lankford-Dickerson, Phd, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Skylette Jackson, MS, LGPC
Destini Lankford is a Certified Associate Counselor–Alcohol and Drug (CAC-AD) with over ten years of experience in the substance use and rehabilitation field. She holds an undergraduate degree in Behavioral Science from Wilmington University, a certificate in Case Management, and an associate degree in Chemical Dependency from Wor-Wic Community College. Destini is currently pursuing board-approved certification as a clinical supervisor in the state of Maryland. With a strong commitment to person-centered care, Destini brings compassion, empathy, and a deep understanding of individual needs into every client interaction. She specializes in fostering therapeutic relationships grounded in mutual respect, emotional safety, and empowerment. Her work is rooted in creating supportive, recovery-focused environments where individuals feel seen, heard, and motivated to heal.
Skylette Jackson, MS, LGPC
Cha-Tanya Lankford-Dickerson, Phd, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Skylette Jackson, MS, LGPC
Skylette Jackson is a graduate of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore with a Master of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling. As a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor, she brings over a decade of experience supporting individuals navigating mental health, substance use, and co-occurring challenges. Her empathic presence and unconditional positive regard foster a strong therapeutic alliance that empowers clients to reach their goals. She integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and other evidence-based techniques to help individuals reframe unhelpful beliefs, build self-awareness, and strengthen resilience. Grounded in each person’s values and lived experience, her approach promotes healing and transformation to support clients in writing the Next Chapter of their lives.
Shanda Ward, LCPC
Candace Strand, CSC-AD
Candace Strand, CSC-AD
I am originally from Washington, DC, and transitioned to the Eastern Shore to attend the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. After receiving my Bachelor's in Science, I attended Wilmington University and graduated with a Master's of Science in Community Counseling. I became a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 2006 and can provide supervision.
I am a wife, mother, daughter, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. member, and community leader. I am on the Disability Advisory Counsel for The City of Salisbury and the founder of The Eastern Shore of Maryland Sickle Cell Disease Association. I love all things arts and crafts, and I love to stay busy.
Candace Strand, CSC-AD
Candace Strand, CSC-AD
Candace Strand, CSC-AD
Candace Strand is a compassionate addiction counselor with a CSC-AD credential and four years of experience in the field. A 2024 Salisbury University BSW graduate, she is currently pursuing her MSW, expected in May 2026. Candace brings a trauma-informed, empathetic approach to her work, grounded in the belief that everyone deserves the chance to heal and reclaim their lives. She values meeting clients where they are, fostering a safe, supportive space for growth and recovery. Her dedication goes beyond profession—it's a calling. Candace finds deep purpose in walking alongside individuals on their recovery journey, helping them rediscover their strengths and supporting lasting transformation with respect, compassion, and hope.
Tammie Milbourne, LCPC
Candace Strand, CSC-AD
Tammie Milbourne, LCPC
Tammie Milbourne is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and experienced mental health therapist dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey toward emotional wellness. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Applied Behavioral Science from Ashford University and her Master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore.
Since joining Next Chapter Behavioral Health in July 2023, Ms. Milbourne has been committed to providing comprehensive mental health services, including diagnosing and treating mental health disorders, facilitating therapy sessions with individuals, groups, and families, creating personalized treatment plans, and closely monitoring client progress throughout the therapeutic process.
Kyesha Harmon, LGPC
Keesha Holden-White MSN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C,
Tammie Milbourne, LCPC
Kyesha is a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field and one year of clinical counseling practice. Her education includes, a Bachelor's of Science in psychology and Master's of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Through her experience, she has acquired meaningful insight in treating an array of mental ailments and applying evidence-based approaches. Kyesha specializes in treating adults navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance abuse, and OCD. Her clinical approach includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Psychodynamic principles to meet individuals where they are. To ensure quality care, she prides herself in remaining studious and being adaptive to the needs those served.
ANGEL ELLIOTt, CAC-AD
Keesha Holden-White MSN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C,
Keesha Holden-White MSN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C,
Angel Elliott is a Certified Supervised Alcohol and Drug Counselor at Next Chapter Behavioral Health. She brings over 7 years of addiction treatment experience. In her role at Next Chapter Behavioral Health, Angel provides group therapy using a Person-Centered approach to educate our customers on relapse prevention, ultimately improving their lives. Angel is deeply committed to the belief that everyone deserves access to compassionate care and a meaningful life free from addiction. She takes great pride in being part of the Next Chapter Behavioral Health family and contributing to its mission of supporting individuals on their journey to recovery.
Keesha Holden-White MSN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C,
Keesha Holden-White MSN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C,
Keesha Holden-White MSN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C,
Keesha Holden-White MSN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C, is a nationally board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C.) Keesha obtained her Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner, Post-Masters Certificates from Wilmington University. Keesha obtained her Master of Science in Nursing, Nursing Leadership, from Wilmington University. Before stepping into the mental health field, Keesha spent several years as a primary care provider, where she saw firsthand how deeply connected our physical and mental health really are. Keesha is known for her interest in lifelong learning, dedication to clients, mindfulness, and compassionate care. Keesha strives to make a positive impact on clients’ lives by creating a welcoming space where clients feel genuinely seen, heard, and respected.
meet the family
Michelle Smullen, Executive Administrative Assistant of Operations
Michelle Smullen, Executive Administrative Assistant of Operations
Michelle Smullen, Executive Administrative Assistant of Operations
Michelle Smullen is a seasoned professional with a diverse background spanning hospitality management, 911 communications management, and business administrative support. Drawing from a robust history of over 15 years in hospitality, Mrs. Smullen understands the importance of customer service, operational efficiency, and cultivating positive client relationships. With over 20 years of experience in high-pressure environments, one being police and medical emergency dispatch, Mrs. Smullen brings exceptional skills in crisis management, clear communication, and team coordination. Her experience in people-focused industries, along with an educational background in paralegal studies and business administration, equips her to foster supportive, efficient, and client-centered care operations. Currently serving as an executive administrative assistant of operations, with strong leadership skills and a commitment to service, Michelle Smullen brings a well-rounded perspective to behavioral health administration.
Kathleen Morris, CMAA, CEHRS, CBCS
Michelle Smullen, Executive Administrative Assistant of Operations
Michelle Smullen, Executive Administrative Assistant of Operations
Kathleen Morris is an Executive Administrative Assistant at Next Chapter Behavioral Health. She brings over 20 years of administrative experience, including more than a decade specializing in medical administration. Kathleen holds national accreditations in Electronic Health Records (EHR), Medical Administration, and Billing and Coding. In her role at Next Chapter Behavioral Health, Kathleen manages billing operations and provides essential support for the electronic medical record (EMR) system, along with a wide range of administrative duties. Kathleen is deeply committed to the belief that everyone deserves access to compassionate care. She takes great pride in being part of the Next Chapter Behavioral Health family and contributing to its mission of supporting individuals on their journey to wellness.
Victoria Purnell, Billing and Coding Specialist
Michelle Smullen, Executive Administrative Assistant of Operations
Victoria Purnell, Billing and Coding Specialist
I am a dedicated Administrative Assistant and Billing & amp; Coding Specialist with over three decades of experience in administrative and billing operations. I retired from Comcast Cable after 32 years of service, including many years as a Senior Billing Analyst. I currently serve at Next Chapter Behavior Health, managing medical billing and coding with precision and care. Known for my attention to detail, organization, and commitment to dependable support, I take pride in helping others behind the scenes. While I’m proud of my professional accomplishments, my greatest roles are serving God, being a wife of 38 years, and being “Nana.” I am a proud mother of two and Godmother to four, blessed with fifteen grandchildren. Faith and family are the heart of everything I do. God gives me strength, and my family gives me purpose. They are what keep me going every day.
Now Accepting New Clients
Next Chapter Behavioral Health is proud to annouce that we are now accepting insurance. In-network with Aetna, CIGNA, Blue Cross BlueShield, United, Health Care Medicare, Tricare, Medicaid and more. Also offering Out-of-network services.