crystal@juniorshousecac.org

Crystal has a Master’s Degree in Public Service Management and in Psychology. Crystal has worked in child welfare for over 20 years and has served as the Junior’s House Executive Director since 2013. She has been at Junior’s House for over a decade and considers it an honor to walk alongside children and families as they work towards healing from traumatic events. Crystal enjoys working with the community and wants to see Junior’s House be successful in providing much needed resources to child abuse victims. Crystal is trained in TF-CBT ( Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Forensic Interviewing, and has attended multiple trainings in play therapy, behavioral therapy, administration, and advocacy.

Crystal is also a trained handler for Allin, who serves as the Junior’s House Facility Dog.  Crystal has two children and enjoys spending time with family when she is not at work.  One of Crystal’s favorite quotes related to the work she does at Junior’s House is “History will judge us by the difference we make in the everyday lives of children.” - Nelson Mandela
 

hwarden@juniorshousecac.org

Heather has been working with children and families since 1995. She has extensive experience in counseling, forensic interviewing, and other aspects of child welfare. She has a Master of Science Degree in Counseling Psychology. Heather and her husband Gary Warden have two children, Garrett and Evelyn.

Lisa has her bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Oakwood University and master’s degree in Social Work with a concentration in Mental Health from Alabama A&M University.  She has served a wide range of populations in the social services field beginning in 2005 with the elder and adult population in Mental Health.  She transitioned into early intervention for children with Head Start/Early Head Start in 2016. Her desire is to encourage and inspire people to navigate their challenges and live! Her immediate support system includes Her husband, 2 daughters, and her “Mama”. 
 
“Whether it be a leap, step, tip toe, or crawl, take it one at a time. Progress is progress.”

development@juniorshousecac.org

Hannah has a bachelor's degree in Biochemistry with a minor in Psychology from University of Alabama in Huntsville. She has previous experience working with and advocating for children as well as experience in the medical and legal field. Hannah is passionate about engaging with others, building relationships and encouraging community involvement. Hannah enjoys spending time with her family, pets and foster animals. Hannah also enjoys arranging flowers and volunteering with other non-profit organizations.
 
"The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate action of its members." - Coretta Scott King

childtherapist@juniorshousecac.org

Brandee has been working in the social services field since 2002 and became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in 2011. She has experience providing individual and group therapy, behavior modification, and case management services to children, their families, and other adults. Brandee’s educational background includes a master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Tennessee, and an undergraduate degree from Middle Tennessee State University with a double major in Psychology and Criminal Justice Administration. 

counselor@juniorshousecac.org

Anitra has a Bachelors and Masters in Social Work with a concentration in Community Mental Health from Alabama A&M University. She has experience in individual therapy, community outreach, and client relations. She is also trained in Behavioral Health Workforce Education and Telehealth Communications.  Anitra enjoys working within the community but her favorite part is making a change.
" My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor and some style." -Maya Angelou

Amanda has a master’s degree in mental health counseling.  She has wide variety of experience in working with children and families including in-home behavior consultation, case management for severe mental illness, outpatient treatment as well as work within psychiatric residential treatment facilities.  Amanda is trained in TF-CBT and enjoys using other treatment modalities including DBT, art therapy, and play therapy techniques.  She is currently pursuing a certification in PCIT.

Allin is our first male staff member, and we are already in love. He will be working at Junior’s House helping the abused and neglected children feel a little more comfortable. He was trained at the wonderful organization Canine Companions for Independence. His favorite hobbies are playing fetch, working puzzles, and mealtime. We are so grateful for Canine Companions for Independence and the dogs they provide that help so many. Allin will keep everyone posted on the work he is doing.

Makinley has a bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in social work and leadership from Middle Tennessee State University. She has extended experience working with children in the school setting and athletics. She also has experience working as a case manager serving a diverse range of clients. Makinley is very passionate about advocating for the children in our communities and serving others. Makinley enjoys spending time with her husband, Garrett, and their two fur babies, Otis and Cash. She is currently pursuing her master’s in Social Work.

Make everyone you talk to feel loved today.

Karen has a bachelor's Degree in Child and Family Studies from The University of Tennessee. She has previous experience working with children and families as a Social Counselor for the State of Tennessee. Karen is bilingual, and she enjoys using her skills and experience to help advocate for all children in the community. Karen and her husband Wheeler welcomed a son, James, in 2022.