Misty Parker, LCSW

Licensed in Texas & Illinois | Oncology Case Manager | Private Practice Owner

Misty Parker is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 14 years of experience in the mental health field. Based in both Texas and Illinois, she currently serves as an Oncology Case Manager at Parkland Health while also running her own private practice, Intentional Healing.

Misty specializes in supporting geriatric individuals, empowering caregivers, and guiding people who are feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, or burnt out. With a grounded, intentional approach, she helps her clients navigate life’s complexities with renewed purpose.

She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice Sciences and a Master’s in Social Work, both from Illinois State University. Outside of her clinical work, Misty partners with Integrity, an Illinois-based organization, to offer free therapy sessions to those in need. She’s also passionate about wellness and community—whether she’s running or walking with Run It Up, traveling, or spending time with friends and family.

Happy Fathers Day to all the Fathers taking a role of Father’s Day.

I’m Coach D, owner of Athletic Zone—a community-driven fitness facility in West Dallas. This space was built to be more than just a gym. It’s a place where discipline, faith, and hard work come together to transform lives. Through personal interactions with clients throughout the years I’ve been able to also develop my clothing brand ACTIV, where I challenge people to put action behind their beliefs and live with purpose. My mission in life is to focus on building strength, overcoming adversity, and leading with conviction in and out of the gym.

A proud Marine Corps veteran, I served for 13 years, both as an enlisted Marine and later as an officer. My time in the military shaped my leadership, discipline, and resilience—qualities I carry into every aspect of life. Today, I apply those same principles in corporate America, where I work in the fast-paced world of advertising technology. I am deeply committed to my faith and strive to live a God-fearing life with integrity and purpose. Above all, I am a devoted father to three amazing children—two daughters and a son—who inspire me every day. Family is my foundation, and I cherish the role of being present, supportive, and engaged in their lives. I believe in continuous growth and constantly seek ways to improve personally and professionally. My journey from the battlefield to the boardroom has taught me the value of grit, humility, and service. I’m passionate about helping others succeed and building meaningful connections in all areas of life. Whether at home, work, or in my community, I lead with heart, faith, and a commitment to excellence.

Alexis Forteza, is a passionate advocate for intentional living, healing, and personal growth. She mentors others through the lens of her own life journey—encouraging people to own their stories, embrace vulnerability, and create a life they truly love. By day, she works in finance, but her heart beats for holistic wellness, emotional health, and helping people live with more purpose. She’s also the host of Embrace The Journey, a podcast that explores powerful stories of transformation and resilience. A Florida native now living in Dallas, she’s always seeking deeper connection, community, and culture. Whether through words, wellness tips, or real talk, her goal is to leave people better than she found them—with more clarity, compassion, and confidence in their path.

I am Myke Woods affectionately known as “It’s Mykee” in the running community. I am from Columbus, Ohio. I am a graduate of The Ohio State University. I’ve been in Dallas for 11 years. Since I brought up the running community, I started my own faith based running group called Run2TheWord that meets in the spring and fall months. I am a World Major Marathon star holder, Chicago ‘24 marathon finisher and headed to Berlin this year. Outside of running, I’m able to hold a few solid notes in the alto and tenor range and I’m gainfully employed and kicking off my new business as a notary here in Texas. Thank you for having me today!

I’m a proud mother of twin teenage daughters, Sama and Laila, who inspire me every day with their strength, curiosity, compassion, and their humanity. Their resilience motivates me to show up fully in every part of my life—including my journey as a long-distance runner. Running is not just a hobby for me—it’s a discipline that has shaped my life, given me purpose, and brought me into a vibrant, supportive community. I’ve completed 14 marathons and 3 ultramarathons, including three of the six World Major Marathons: New York City, Berlin, and Chicago. Currently, I’m training for the Sydney Marathon in August 2025, Inshallah, and I continue to use running as a way to inspire others and advocate for health, wellness, peace, and prosperity for all. As a Run It Up Dallas Race Ambassador, I’m passionate about encouraging people of all backgrounds to discover the joy and strength that comes through movement. I’m an active member of the Dallas Muslim Running Club and several other run clubs in the DFW area, where I find deep connection and camaraderie. I serve as the Central Regional Manager for the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC), where I work to raise awareness, build community, and support survivors and their loved ones. Although I do not have a direct tie to ovarian cancer, my survivors have become my tie—and my why—for continuing to advocate and raise awareness. The mission of the NOCC is to save lives through the prevention and cure of ovarian cancer and to improve the quality of life for survivors and their caregivers. I’ve proudly fundraised for the NOCC through my World Major races in NYC and Berlin, and now for the upcoming Sydney Marathon. I also run with the Palestinian flag raised high, using every race as an opportunity to promote peace and raise awareness about the ongoing genocide in Palestine. I strive for a world where all people are treated with dignity, respect, and allowed to live in peace—because at the end of the day, that’s what every human deserves. Balancing motherhood, marathon training, and nonprofit leadership isn’t always easy, but it’s deeply fulfilling. I run not only for my health, but to set an example for my daughters and to serve a purpose bigger than myself.

Disclaimer They have given me permission to speak on there experiences through mental health. I am not a therapist or psychiatrist I am simply someone that is letting them speak about their story.