The Story That Changed A Community: Inclusion, Identity & Embracing Who You Are Meant to Be with Dr. Kirsten Viola Harrison

In this episode, Candice sits down with Dr. Kirsten Viola Harrison, a trauma psychologist, author, and founder of Soul Wise Solutions. Kirsten shares the deeply human story behind her friendship with Sean/a, an intersex woman living with schizophrenia whose life has inspired an entire community.

Kirsten opens up about the lived experiences that shaped her path, from growing up in a philanthropic family to witnessing profound trauma in those she loved. She explains how her relationship with Sean/a led her to blend clinical psychology with spiritual insight and how one person’s resilience can challenge stigma and expand our understanding of inclusion.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

• How Kirsten and Sean/a first met and the moment that changed everything
• What Sean/a’s story reveals about identity, dignity, and the power of community support
• How schizophrenia shows up differently in each person and why compassion matters
• The role of “mood walk therapy” in Sean/a’s healing and self-regulation
• Why authenticity can be a catalyst for connection and social change
• The unexpected ways our purpose can unfold through the people we meet
• How advocacy, storytelling, and everyday kindness can shift cultural understanding
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This conversation is a reminder that purpose often rises from unexpected places and that choosing compassion can transform more than one life at a time.

About Dr. Kirsten Viola Harrison:

Dr. Kirsten Viola Harrison is a trauma psychologist, author, and founder of Soul Wise Solutions. For over 35 years, she has helped individuals navigate profound psychological and spiritual transitions — including those living with complex PTSD (C-PTSD), dissociative identity disorder, schizophrenia, and near-death experiences. Her integrative approach blends clinical expertise with compassionate soul work to support true, lasting healing.

She is the co-author of “I, Sean/a: The Story of a Homeless Intersex Woman Who Inspired a Community,” the true account of Sean/a Smith, an intersex woman with schizophrenia whose life defies stigma and inspires change. Together, they advocate for an end to outdated medical practices and a future rooted in dignity and inclusion.

Whether she’s speaking, writing, or working with clients, Dr. Harrison brings insight, depth, and humanity to conversations about trauma, identity, and transformation.

“I, Sean/a: The Story of a Homeless Intersex Woman Who Inspired a Community,” co-authored with Sean/a Smith,
https://a.co/d/31Unyu1

Website: https://soulwisesolutions.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soulwiseteam

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dr-kirsten-viola-harrison-20928839

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