As Mental Health Awareness Month shines a light on emotional well-being, one woman is transforming how communities of color understand healing — and the importance of joy.
Dr. Kristen Guillory, a former professor of counseling and social work, is more than a mental health professional. She’s known by many as “The Soul Reader” — a transformational coach, international speaker, and best-selling author whose soul-awakening work blends radical honesty with humor and storytelling. With more than two decades of experience, she’s become a powerful force in redefining mental health through a culturally grounded, holistic lens.
Her work reaches far beyond addressing depression and anxiety. “Mental health also means joy. It means rest. It means freedom,” says Dr. Guillory. “And it means challenging the beliefs and burdens we’ve been told to carry — especially when we think there’s no space for us to be seen, held, or healed.”
