Pearsall is not a medical professional in the traditional sense, as he does not hold a medical degree. Instead, he has earned a Ph.D., which is commonly associated with academia and research. This distinction highlights that his expertise lies in a different field, likely related to psychology or self-help, rather than direct medical practice.

The context provided comes from Mary Roach's book "Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers." In this work, Roach explores the fascinating and often overlooked life of cadavers, shedding light on their roles in science and society. The mention of Pearsall emphasizes the varied backgrounds of individuals who engage with topics related to the human body and its uses beyond just medicine.