Dr. Marie Brown-Mercadel

"Dr. Mercadel’s mentorship helped me focus and set career goals that I have never thought about or considered before. Getting the perspective of leadership in an informal setting is extremely valuable and I have been able to use my understanding of that perspective to improve my own work and relationship with my coworkers. As a new employee, I can say without a doubt that I think all new employees should participate in a mentorship program. Dr. Mercadel introduced me to so many new people and helped me navigate my way through a lot of situations while acquainting me with the organizational norms. Having a guide to help navigate though the unspoken rules while encouraging positive outcomes made such a difference in my experience."

— Catrin Lewis, Mentee

“I first met Dr. Marie at one of her Sip & Heal events, and soon after began working with her as my trauma and resilience coach. Her approach is straightforward, warm, honest, and deeply nurturing. With her guidance, I’ve made significant strides in my healing journey. I’m truly grateful to know and be supported by such a powerful, compassionate woman.”

— Toni R., Registered Nurse

“Dr. Marie is an incredible speaker who shares a powerful story of loss, trauma, recovery, resilience, and forgiveness. Her words stirred so many emotions in me because of the parallels in my own life. Her authenticity created a safe space for me to finally release some of the shame I’ve carried since childhood.”

— Angela B. 

“Thank you so much for presenting at the Sip & Heal event for the Earl B. Gilliam Bar Association. You were wonderful. The women left inspired, uplifted, and truly rejuvenated. You are an amazing woman of God, and I look forward to working with you again.”

— Desirae Sanders, Past President, Earl B. Gilliam Bar Association

“Dr. Marie is incredibly understanding, compassionate, empathetic, and highly knowledgeable in her field. She takes the time to carefully consider each situation before giving guidance, making her advice both thoughtful and genuinely supportive. She’s a wonderful person to process with, always ready to help, and consistently creating a space where individuals feel heard and encouraged.”

— Shanee C. Morgan, PsyD

“With raw honesty, Dr. Marie’s books illuminate a story of trauma, loss, perseverance, and profound strength. I’m amazed by her ability to articulate experiences that so many of us carry but are often too afraid to voice. Childhood assault is a public health issue, and her advocacy for Black mental health and the protection of our young boys and girls is both vital and deeply admirable.”

— Joanna R.

“Dr. Marie is an incredible mentor. She has helped me to recognize my full potential in various aspects of my life, including my career, relationships, self confidence and womanhood. The most beautiful part of it all is that she always reminds me that my greatness was in me all along.”

— S. Watkins, EdD

“I had the pleasure of co-presenting with Dr. Marie at the California Child Welfare Directors Association conference in San Diego. She is a dynamic speaker with a powerful presence—able to fully engage the audience, command the room, and motivate participants to elevate their commitment to serving others. Truly inspiring.”

— Isaac Ford, MSW, Author, Motivational Speaker 

“Dr. Marie delivers trauma-informed content with clarity, warmth, and depth, making even complex ACEs concepts easy to understand. She inspires audiences to reflect on their own experiences while offering practical, hope-centered pathways toward resilience.”

— Charlene Terry, LCSW, CCTP