Felipe Mercado

Felipe Mercado is a distinguished figure in the realms of education, social work, and mental wellness, known for his transformative approach to compassion and resilience. As a Professor at California State University, Fresno, and the visionary founder of Wise Soul LLC, Felipe integrates his diverse experiences from being an elementary principal and counselor to a social worker, shaping lives with empathy and insight. Emerging from personal challenges, including homelessness, Felipe's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and compassion. His book, "A Journey to Compassion: Learning to Stand Firm in the Face of Pain," has touched many, earning a 6x Amazon best-seller accolade and an International Award for Most Inspirational Book. His work extends to the screen, contributing significantly to the EMMY Award-winning documentary by ABC30 "A Critical State of Mind," which highlights his impact on mental health advocacy. Felipe’s affiliations with prestigious bodies like the Compassion Institute and the World Happiness Academy, alongside his board roles at the California School Based Health Alliance and Kings View Behavioral Health, underscore his commitment to fostering mental wellness and educational excellence. His pioneering "Wise Compassionate Framework" has revolutionized K-12 communities, markedly reducing suspension rates by 60% and enhancing the educational environment. A certified trainer in the Surgeon General's Framework for Workplace Mental Health and Well-Being and a Compassion Cultivation Training (CCT™) instructor, Felipe is at the forefront of integrating mental health practices in educational and professional settings. His contributions, including a blog on Psychology Today named "The Authentic Self," advocate for a balanced, compassionate approach to personal and community well-being.