Misty is a Licensed Master Social Worker with a master’s degree from the University of Mississippi in Social Work and a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Memphis. She joined the staff of Healing Hearts CAC in 2017 after being a part of the DeSoto County MDT since 2013. Prior to Healing Hearts CAC, she worked as an Area Social Work Supervisor and Family Protection Worker for over nine years with DeSoto County Child Protection Services. She supervised frontline staff and investigated children who were abused, neglected and exploited. Misty’s desire is to continue to help children that have been abused or neglected through her new role at Healing Hearts CAC.
Shawn joined the staff of Healing Hearts CAC in September of 2018 as a family advocate. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Mississippi in Social Work. Prior to Healing Hearts CAC, he worked as a Family Protection Specialist and a Special Projects Officer for over six years with DeSoto County Child Protection Services. While at CPS he worked with children who were abused, neglected and exploited. Shawn continues his passion of working with abused and neglected children as the Desoto County MDT Coordinator.
Margaret Sowell brings over three decades of experience and a wealth of expertise to her role as a Family Advocate at Healing Hearts Child Advocacy Center. Graduating from the University of Mississippi in 1991 with a bachelor's degree in social work, Margaret's career has been dedicated to serving the needs of children and families in various capacities. With two years of tenure at Healing Hearts, Margaret has demonstrated her unwavering commitment to supporting and empowering families through challenging times. Prior to joining Healing Hearts, Margaret gained valuable experience working for DeSoto County Schools, Youth Villages, and Canopy Solutions, where she honed her skills in advocacy, counseling, and community outreach. Margaret's deep compassion and extensive background make her an invaluable asset to the organization and the community it serves.
Kendall Grace Akerson is a dedicated professional committed to serving the needs of vulnerable children and families. Graduating from the University of Mississippi in 2020 with a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, Kendall brings a strong foundation in legal studies to her role as a Forensic Interviewer and MDT Coordinator at Healing Hearts Child Advocacy Center. With two years of experience in this capacity, Kendall has demonstrated her ability to effectively coordinate multi-disciplinary teams while conducting thorough and sensitive forensic interviews. Prior to joining Healing Hearts, Kendall gained valuable experience working for the DeSoto County Clerk's Office, further enhancing her understanding of legal processes and procedures. Her passion for advocating for children's rights and her dedication to her work make her an invaluable member of the team.
Emily Bush is a dedicated professional with a passion for advocating for vulnerable children and families. Holding a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Mississippi, Emily brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role as a Forensic Interviewer and Family Advocate at Healing Hearts Child Advocacy Center. With two years of experience in this capacity, Emily has demonstrated a strong commitment to providing support and guidance to those in need, while ensuring the well-being and safety of children under her care. Her compassionate approach and strong communication skills make her an invaluable asset to the organization and the community at large.
Crystal is a dedicated professional that has a passion for the work that she does and for the area that she serves. While she was finishing her senior year of high school she started working part time at the District Attorney’s Office. She went on to obtain her Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice and became a full time Criminal Investigator for the DA’s Office. Crystal also interned for the Mississippi Bureau of Investigations and the Cold Case Unit. She brings with her a wealth of experience and knowledge that will allow her to succeed in working with the team to fight for children that need it the most. She is excited about joining Healing Hearts and being an advocate for children in DeSoto, Tate, and Tunica counties.
