Kristal Morris is a psychiatric nurse at Sacramento Behavioral Health Hospital. Read her story below:
My journey into psychiatric nursing was shaped early in life by the powerful influence of both my parents and the environment in which I was raised. I grew up in an Alzheimer’s lockdown facility where my mother worked as a nurse, and from a young age, I volunteered alongside her, witnessing firsthand the compassion, patience, and dedication required to care for individuals with complex mental and cognitive needs. Her commitment to providing dignity and comfort to those most vulnerable instilled in me a deep respect for the nursing profession.
Equally formative was the influence of my father, who worked as a psychiatric technician at Agnews State Hospital in Santa Clara during a pivotal time in mental health history. He shared with us stories of his experiences—stories of haunted halls, but more importantly, of the evolution of mental health care in the wake of the Lanterman-Petris-Short Act. His reflections on the deinstitutionalization movement and its profound impact on patients stayed with me. Later, he became a published author, writing eloquent poems and short stories that gave voice to those living with mental illness, preserving the humanity often lost in clinical or institutional settings.
Together, my parents’ work taught me that mental health care is not just about treatment—it’s about advocacy, empathy, and fighting for dignity in every aspect of care. These values have guided me through my career as a psychiatric registered nurse and now drive my pursuit of advanced education.
Building on this foundation, I am currently working toward obtaining my SANE (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner) certification through Fitchburg University, with the goal of specializing in forensic nursing. My background in psychiatric care has provided me with a deep understanding of the complexities faced by individuals with mental illness, especially those who intersect with the criminal justice system. I believe forensic nursing is a powerful extension of mental health advocacy—offering trauma-informed, ethical care to those often silenced or marginalized.
With every step I take, I remain committed to advancing how society understands and supports those with mental health conditions. Through continued education, specialized training, and compassionate clinical practice, I aim to be a force for change—honoring my parents’ legacy and standing alongside those who deserve not only care but justice and humanity.
